NZ Motorcycle Road Code Test key terms

To let another road user go first. At an intersection you give way to traffic coming from your right, to vehicles already on the main road when you are turning in, and to pedestrians crossing.

An intersection governed by traffic lights, a roundabout, a stop sign, or a give way sign. The sign or signal overrides the default give way rules that apply where nothing controls the junction.

A junction with no signs, signals, or markings telling anyone to stop or give way. The default rule applies: you give way to vehicles approaching from your right.

A circular intersection where traffic travels clockwise. You give way to vehicles already circulating and to any vehicle entering from your right, then signal left to leave.

An octagonal red sign reading STOP. You must bring the motorcycle to a complete halt at the limit line or sign, check for traffic, and give way before moving off again.

A solid white line painted across your lane at a stop sign or signal. You must stop before it, not over it, so that crossing pedestrians and other traffic remain unobstructed.

The indicator you operate to show other road users your intention to turn or change lane. Signal for at least three seconds before moving and cancel it once the manoeuvre is finished.

A marked section of road where pedestrians have priority. You must slow down and give way to anyone on or stepping onto the crossing, and you must not pass a vehicle stopped at one.

The maximum legal speed for a stretch of road, shown on a sign or implied by the road type. This is an upper limit, not a target; ride slower when conditions are poor.

A sign showing a white bar on a red background that marks a road with no through route. Entering it means you will have to turn around, so plan your route before committing.

The technique of pushing the handlebar in the direction you want to turn at speed. Pushing forward on the right grip leans the bike right and makes it turn right.

How far the motorcycle tilts from vertical through a corner. More speed or a tighter curve needs more lean, but leaning too far risks the tyres losing grip on the road surface.

A rider's tendency to steer toward whatever they stare at. Staring at a pothole or the edge of the road makes you ride into it, so look where you want to go instead.

Holding light brake pressure into the first part of a corner while gradually releasing it as the bike leans. It settles the suspension and helps control speed without grabbing the brakes mid-turn.

The point where you begin turning into a curve. Set your speed and gear before this point, then keep a steady throttle through the bend so the suspension stays balanced.

The first deliberate push on the handlebar that starts a turn. Done decisively and smoothly, it tips the bike into the corner without the wobble that hesitant steering causes.

The distance a motorcycle travels from the moment the brakes are applied until it stops. It grows quickly with speed and is longer on wet, gravelly, or oiled surfaces.

The grip between tyres and road. It is reduced by rain, gravel, paint lines, and metal covers, so brake and lean more gently when grip is limited.

The gap you keep behind the vehicle ahead, measured in seconds. Use at least a two-second gap in good conditions and four seconds or more when wet or dark.

Where you sit across the width of your lane. Ride where you can be seen and where you have the best escape route, not simply in the middle or on the crown of the road.

A head check over your shoulder before changing lane or turning. Mirrors leave gaps, and a motorcycle is easily hidden in another driver's blind spot, so look directly.

A hard shell with impact-absorbing liner and a chin strap, worn done up whenever you ride. A correctly fitted helmet meeting the approved standard is the single most important piece of gear.

Jacket, trousers, gloves, and boots made from abrasion-resistant material with impact padding. They shield skin from road rash and cushion joints if you come off the bike.

A bright fluorescent or reflective garment worn over your jacket. It makes the rider easier to pick out against traffic, especially in low light, rain, or dappled shade.

How easily other road users can see and notice you. Position in the lane, headlight use, reflective gear, and bright colours all raise conspicuity and reduce the chance of being missed.

Anything on or near the road that could force you to change speed or direction, such as a pothole, loose gravel, parked car door, or turning truck. Scan ahead to spot them early.

The clear path you keep in mind in case the situation ahead goes wrong, such as a gap beside a braking car. Constantly updating it gives you somewhere to go instead of just braking.

Riding so that cars, trucks, cyclists, and pedestrians can all move safely. It means leaving room, being predictable, avoiding blind spots, and not assuming others have seen you.

The maximum permitted alcohol concentration for drivers under 20, which is zero. Even small amounts impair balance, reaction time, and judgement, all critical on two wheels.

Reduced ability to ride safely caused by alcohol, drugs, or medication. It slows reactions, distorts judgement, and worsens balance, and the rider is often the last to notice it.

The tiredness that builds on long rides and dulls attention, reaction time, and decision making. The only real cure is to stop and rest; fresh air and coffee are only short-term help.

A brief involuntary lapse into sleep, often only seconds long, that happens when a rider is very tired. At highway speed a few seconds can carry you far off your line.

The label instruction on a medicine stating it may cause drowsiness or affect driving. Read it before riding and ask a pharmacist if you are unsure whether it is safe.

Police checks where riders are stopped without warning and asked to give a breath or saliva sample. Refusing a lawful request carries serious penalties, so comply and cooperate.

Riding on the assumption that other road users may not see you or may make mistakes. It means planning ahead, keeping space, and being ready to react rather than relying on others.

Adjusting to rain by slowing down, increasing following distance, braking earlier and more gently, and avoiding painted lines and metal covers that become slippery when wet.