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NZ Motorcycle Road Code Test study materials
NZ Motorcycle Road Code Test study resources

NZ Motorcycle Road Code Test practice questions

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Question 1General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

On a New Zealand road, what does a red circle with a white horizontal bar across it mean?

  1. No entry for any vehicle Correct answer.
  2. No stopping at any time
  3. Stop and wait for a green signal
  4. Give way to traffic on the right

Explanation

The red circle containing a white horizontal bar is the no entry sign. It tells drivers they must not proceed past it, so it is commonly placed at the exit of one-way streets or restricted access points.

Question 2General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding and approach a pedestrian crossing where a person is waiting to step onto the zebra stripes. What must you do?

  1. Give way and let the pedestrian cross Correct answer.
  2. Slow down and continue if you have right of way
  3. Sound your horn so they wait for you to pass
  4. Move to the centre line and pass the crossing

Explanation

At a pedestrian crossing marked with zebra stripes, you must give way to any pedestrian who is on the crossing or clearly waiting to use it. This applies even if you would otherwise have right of way.

Question 3General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

When are you permitted to ride a motorcycle on a motorway such as a 100 km/h expressway?

  1. Only if the motorcycle can maintain a speed of at least 70 km/h Correct answer.
  2. Only during daylight hours
  3. Only if you carry a pillion passenger
  4. Only if the engine is over 250 cc

Explanation

Motorcycles may use motorways only if they are capable of maintaining a speed of at least 70 km/h on the level. This excludes very small or restricted machines such as mopeds and low-powered scooters.

Question 4General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

What is the default speed limit on an urban road in New Zealand unless signs show otherwise?

  1. 70 km/h
  2. 60 km/h
  3. 40 km/h
  4. 50 km/h Correct answer.

Explanation

The default urban speed limit in New Zealand is 50 km/h unless a sign indicates a different limit. Many councils have lowered specific streets to 30 or 40 km/h, and posted signs override the default.

Question 5General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

At an intersection with no signs or markings, two vehicles arrive at about the same time. A motorcycle is turning right and an oncoming car is going straight ahead. Who gives way?

  1. Both must stop completely before proceeding
  2. Neither, because unmarked intersections have no rules
  3. The car, because motorcycles are smaller
  4. The motorcycle, because it is turning across the other vehicle's path Correct answer.

Explanation

At an uncontrolled intersection you must give way to vehicles approaching from your right, and a right-turning vehicle must give way to oncoming traffic going straight or turning left. The motorcycle turning right therefore gives way to the oncoming car.

Question 6General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

How should you position your motorcycle when making a right turn from a two-way road into another two-way road?

  1. Just left of the centre line, without crossing it Correct answer.
  2. In the middle of the left lane at all times
  3. On the right-hand side of the road
  4. Close to the left kerb until the turn

Explanation

For a right turn you should move to a position just left of the centre line, keeping your wheels on your own side until it is safe to turn. You must give way to oncoming traffic before completing the turn.

Question 7General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

What does a blue circle sign showing a white arrow pointing straight ahead indicate?

  1. A recommended route for heavy vehicles
  2. A compulsory direction to travel Correct answer.
  3. A lane reserved for buses
  4. A one-way road in that direction

Explanation

Blue circular signs give mandatory instructions. A white arrow in a blue circle means you must travel in the direction shown.

Question 8General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding at night and a vehicle approaches from the opposite direction. What should you do with your headlight?

  1. Dip to low beam so you do not dazzle the other driver Correct answer.
  2. Flash high beam repeatedly
  3. Switch to high beam to be seen better
  4. Turn the headlight off briefly

Explanation

At night you must dip your headlights to low beam when a vehicle approaches from the opposite direction so the driver is not dazzled. High beam is for use when no other traffic is affected.

Question 9General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

A police officer signals you to stop by pointing at you and then at the left kerb. What should you do?

  1. Stop as soon as it is safe at the left kerb Correct answer.
  2. Continue because hand signals only apply to cars
  3. Stop immediately in the middle of the lane
  4. Ignore the signal and follow the traffic light instead

Explanation

You must obey directions from a police officer, and these override signs and signals. Pull over and stop as soon as it is safe to do so at the indicated place.

Question 10General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

What is the meaning of a yellow diamond sign showing a black curve arrow?

  1. A compulsory U-turn facility
  2. A merging lane from the left
  3. A slippery surface for the next 100 metres
  4. A sharp bend ahead that requires reduced speed Correct answer.

Explanation

Yellow diamond warning signs alert you to a hazard ahead. A black curved arrow warns of a bend, so you should slow down before reaching it.

Question 11General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are following a large truck on a wet road. Why should you increase your following distance beyond the normal two-second gap?

  1. Trucks always travel faster than motorcycles
  2. Trucks are required to brake later than motorcycles
  3. The truck will move over to let you pass
  4. Spray and reduced visibility plus longer stopping distance make a bigger gap safer Correct answer.

Explanation

On wet roads your braking distance increases and the truck throws up spray that reduces your view. A longer following gap gives you more time to react and see past the vehicle.

Question 12General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

When may you pass another vehicle on the left on a multi-lane road?

  1. Only if you are in a lane marked for turning or the traffic is in separate lanes moving in the same direction Correct answer.
  2. Never under any circumstances
  3. Whenever the lane to the left is clear, regardless of lane use
  4. Only if the vehicle ahead is signalling right

Explanation

You may pass on the left when vehicles are in separate lanes travelling in the same direction, or when you are in a lane marked for turning left. Passing on the left in other situations is not permitted.

Question 13General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

What does a white diamond symbol painted on the road surface indicate?

  1. A no-parking zone
  2. A pedestrian crossing ahead
  3. A lane reserved for motorcycles
  4. A special vehicle lane such as a bus or transit lane Correct answer.

Explanation

A white diamond marking on the road indicates a special vehicle lane, such as a bus or high-occupancy transit lane. You may only use it if your vehicle is permitted in that lane.

Question 14General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are at a roundabout and intend to take the second exit, going straight ahead. Which indicator practice is correct?

  1. Signal right throughout until you leave
  2. Do not signal at all in a roundabout
  3. Signal left on approach and keep signalling throughout
  4. Signal right on approach, then left as you pass the exit before yours Correct answer.

Explanation

For going straight through a roundabout you do not signal right on approach, but you should signal left as you pass the exit before the one you intend to take. This warns following and waiting traffic that you are leaving.

Question 15General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

What must you do before changing lanes on a motorway?

  1. Check mirrors and blind spot, signal, then move when clear Correct answer.
  2. Increase speed sharply and move across
  3. Rely on the vehicle behind to make room
  4. Signal only after you have started moving

Explanation

Before any lane change you must check your mirrors and blind spot, signal your intention, and move only when there is a safe gap. Motorcycles have small blind spots of their own and can be hidden in other drivers' blind spots.

Question 16General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

A school bus has stopped with its flashing signs operating and children are nearby. What is required of you?

  1. Sound your horn to warn the children
  2. Slow to 20 km/h and be ready to stop Correct answer.
  3. Continue at the posted speed limit
  4. Pass slowly at 50 km/h

Explanation

When a school bus is stopped with its signs operating, you must slow to 20 km/h and be prepared to stop for children. This applies in both directions unless the road is divided by a median.

Question 17General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You intend to turn left into a driveway across a footpath where pedestrians are walking. Who has right of way?

  1. Whoever arrives first
  2. The pedestrians, because you are crossing their path Correct answer.
  3. The vehicle with the larger turning circle
  4. You, because you are already on the road

Explanation

When you cross a footpath to enter or leave a driveway, you must give way to pedestrians on the footpath. Your turn does not give you priority over them.

Question 18General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

What is the correct action when you see a stop sign at an intersection?

  1. Treat it the same as a give way sign
  2. Slow down and proceed if the road looks clear
  3. Stop only if another vehicle is approaching
  4. Stop completely at the limit line and give way before proceeding Correct answer.

Explanation

A stop sign requires a complete stop at the stop line or, if there is none, at the edge of the intersection. You must then give way to all traffic before moving off.

Question 19General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding in heavy rain and the road surface has visible standing water. What is the safest approach?

  1. Move to the centre line for better grip
  2. Ride faster to get through the water quickly
  3. Brake hard whenever you see water
  4. Reduce speed and avoid sudden braking or steering inputs Correct answer.

Explanation

Standing water increases the risk of aquaplaning and reduces tyre grip. Slowing down and avoiding abrupt braking or steering helps you keep control.

Question 20General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

At an intersection controlled by a give way sign, you are turning right. An oncoming vehicle is going straight ahead. Who must give way?

  1. Neither, because the sign only applies to straight-through traffic
  2. The oncoming vehicle, because it is not turning
  3. You, because you are turning across its path and must also obey the sign Correct answer.
  4. Whoever is travelling faster

Explanation

A give way sign requires you to give way to all traffic on the intersecting road, and a right-turning vehicle must also give way to oncoming traffic going straight. Both rules mean you must wait.

Question 21General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding a motorcycle towing a small trailer on the open road. What is the maximum speed you may travel?

  1. 80 km/h
  2. 90 km/h Correct answer.
  3. 100 km/h
  4. 50 km/h

Explanation

A motorcycle towing a trailer is limited to a maximum speed of 90 km/h, even where a higher limit applies. The lower limit reflects the reduced stability and braking of a towing combination.

Question 22General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

A solid yellow line runs along your side of the centre line. When may you cross it?

  1. Whenever you want to overtake a slower vehicle
  2. Only when the road is clear for 200 metres
  3. Never, even to enter a driveway
  4. To enter or leave a property or side road, provided the turn is lawful and safe Correct answer.

Explanation

A solid yellow line on your side of the centre line prohibits crossing it to pass another vehicle, including one turning right. You may cross it to make a lawful turn into or out of a property or side road, provided it is safe.

Question 23General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding behind a vehicle that is signalling a right turn but has stopped to wait for oncoming traffic. When may you pass it on the left?

  1. Only if the vehicle has stopped for more than 30 seconds
  2. Only if there is a marked lane or sufficient sealed space to do so safely Correct answer.
  3. Never, because passing on the left is always illegal
  4. Only if you sound your horn first

Explanation

You may pass a right-turning vehicle on the left only if there is a marked lane or enough sealed road space to do so safely. You must not use an unsealed shoulder or put other road users at risk.

Question 24General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You hold a learner motorcycle licence. Which condition applies to carrying passengers?

  1. You must not carry a pillion passenger Correct answer.
  2. You may carry a pillion passenger only during daylight
  3. You may carry a pillion passenger if they hold a full car licence
  4. You may carry one pillion passenger at any time

Explanation

A learner motorcycle rider must not carry a pillion passenger. The restriction exists because carrying a passenger changes the handling and balance of the machine and requires more experience.

Question 25General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

A vehicle is parked partly on the footpath ahead, narrowing your lane, and an oncoming car is approaching. What is the safest response?

  1. Hold your line and expect the oncoming car to stop
  2. Move onto the footpath to pass the parked vehicle
  3. Slow down and wait behind the obstruction until the oncoming lane is clear Correct answer.
  4. Accelerate to pass before the oncoming car arrives

Explanation

When your lane is blocked, you must give way to oncoming traffic before moving around the obstruction. Slowing and waiting until the way is clear avoids a head-on conflict.

Question 26General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding a motorcycle on a rural road and come to a railway level crossing with a stop sign and a solid white line painted across your lane. The barrier arms are up and no train is visible. What must you do?

  1. Stop completely at the line, check both directions, then cross when clear Correct answer.
  2. Slow to about 20 km/h and cross if no train is in sight
  3. Sound your horn and cross without stopping
  4. Continue at normal speed because the barrier arms are raised

Explanation

A stop sign at a level crossing requires you to bring the motorcycle to a complete stop at the stop line before entering the crossing, regardless of whether the alarms or barrier arms are operating. You then check both directions along the rail line and cross only when it is clear. Rolling slowly past the sign does not satisfy the legal stop requirement.

Question 27General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are approaching a pedestrian crossing where a pedestrian has stepped onto the crossing and is walking across your side of the road. What must you do?

  1. Move into the oncoming lane to pass around the pedestrian
  2. Continue if you can pass behind the pedestrian without touching them
  3. Give way and remain stopped until the pedestrian has cleared your path Correct answer.
  4. Sound your horn so the pedestrian hurries across

Explanation

At a pedestrian crossing you must give way to any pedestrian on the crossing, and you must stay stopped until they have finished crossing your path. Passing behind them or squeezing past is dangerous because pedestrians can change direction or speed unexpectedly. The obligation rests on the rider, not on the pedestrian to hurry.

Question 28General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding along a road and see a sign showing a red circle with a white horizontal bar in the middle. What does this sign mean?

  1. Road closed to motorcycles only
  2. No parking
  3. Stop and give way
  4. Do not enter Correct answer.

Explanation

A red circle containing a white horizontal bar is the do-not-enter sign, meaning you must not ride past it into that road or lane. It is commonly placed at the exit of one-way streets and at restricted entries. It is not a stop sign, which is a red octagon with the word STOP.

Question 29General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You hold a restricted motorcycle licence and are riding between 10 pm and 5 am. Which rule applies to carrying a passenger?

  1. You may carry a passenger if you have held the licence for six months
  2. You may carry any number of passengers the motorcycle is designed for
  3. You may not carry a passenger during those hours Correct answer.
  4. You may carry one passenger if they wear a helmet

Explanation

A restricted motorcycle licence carries a night-time condition prohibiting passengers between 10 pm and 5 am. Outside those hours a restricted holder may carry a pillion passenger provided the motorcycle is designed for it and the passenger is properly helmeted. The restriction is about the time of day, not about the licence period served.

Question 30General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding on a two-lane road and the vehicle ahead is travelling well below the speed limit. There is a solid yellow no-passing line on your side of the centre line. What is the correct action?

  1. Remain behind the vehicle until the solid yellow line ends and passing is permitted Correct answer.
  2. Overtake on the left using the sealed shoulder
  3. Cross the line briefly if you can complete the pass within 50 metres
  4. Cross the line if the road ahead looks clear for several hundred metres

Explanation

A solid yellow no-passing line on your side means you must not cross it to overtake, and you must wait until the restriction ends before passing. The line is placed where visibility or road layout makes passing unsafe, so a clear-looking gap is not a lawful reason to cross. Passing on the shoulder is also prohibited.

Question 31General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding down a steep hill and want to slow the motorcycle without overheating the brakes. What is the recommended technique?

  1. Hold the brakes on continuously for the whole descent
  2. Ride the clutch in a high gear with the throttle closed
  3. Select a lower gear and use engine braking to help control speed Correct answer.
  4. Shift into neutral and coast down using the brakes only

Explanation

On a long descent, selecting a lower gear lets engine braking share the work of slowing the motorcycle, which reduces heat build-up and brake fade. Brakes should be applied in short, firm applications rather than held on continuously. Coasting in neutral removes engine braking and leaves you with less control.

Question 32General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding a motorcycle that is towing a small trailer. What is the maximum speed you may travel?

  1. 50 km/h
  2. 100 km/h
  3. 90 km/h Correct answer.
  4. 80 km/h

Explanation

A motorcycle towing a trailer is limited to a maximum speed of 90 km/h, even where the general speed limit is higher. The lower limit reflects the reduced stability and longer stopping distance of a towing combination. The open-road limit of 100 km/h applies only to vehicles not subject to this towing restriction.

Question 33General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding on a motorway and your motorcycle develops a fault, so you move onto the left-hand shoulder. What should you do?

  1. Walk back along the shoulder to warn approaching traffic
  2. Leave the motorcycle on the shoulder and wait in the middle lane
  3. Stay in the left lane with your hazard lights on until help arrives
  4. Stop as far left as possible, switch on your hazard lights and stay clear of the traffic lanes Correct answer.

Explanation

If you must stop on a motorway shoulder, move as far left as you can, use hazard lights to increase visibility and keep yourself and any passenger away from the live lanes. You should not remain in a traffic lane or walk along the carriageway to direct traffic. Waiting in a live lane puts you directly in the path of fast-moving vehicles.

Question 34General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding at night on an unlit road and a vehicle ahead of you is travelling in the same direction. How should you use your headlight?

  1. Dip to low beam so you do not dazzle the driver ahead through their mirrors Correct answer.
  2. Keep high beam on so you can see further along the road
  3. Flash high beam repeatedly to warn the driver you are following
  4. Switch the headlight off and rely on the vehicle's tail lights

Explanation

When following another vehicle at night, high beam can dazzle the driver through their rear-view mirrors, so you should dip to low beam. High beam is for use when there is no traffic ahead to dazzle. Flashing the headlight is a warning signal, not a following technique.

Question 35General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding towards an intersection where the traffic signals are not working and no officer is directing traffic. A vehicle approaching from your right arrives at the same time. Who should give way?

  1. You should give way to the vehicle on your right Correct answer.
  2. Both vehicles may proceed without giving way
  3. Whichever vehicle is travelling faster has right of way
  4. The vehicle on your right should give way to you

Explanation

When signals are out and no officer is controlling the intersection, the give-way rules apply as at an uncontrolled intersection. The general rule is that you give way to traffic approaching from your right. Neither speed nor vehicle size changes that obligation.

Question 36General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding in the left lane of a road and want to turn right into a side road. There is a flush median painted in the centre of the road. How may you use the median?

  1. You may move onto it to wait for a gap in oncoming traffic before turning Correct answer.
  2. You may not use it for any purpose at any time
  3. You may park on it while you check your directions
  4. You may use it as a lane to overtake slower vehicles

Explanation

A flush median may be used as a waiting area when you are turning right, so you can stop clear of the through lane while you wait for a safe gap. It is not a travel or overtaking lane and you may not park on it. Once the turn is complete you must leave the median.

Question 37General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding a motorcycle with a pillion passenger. How does carrying a passenger affect your riding?

  1. The motorcycle becomes more stable in strong crosswinds
  2. You may ride at the same speed and following distance as when solo
  3. Stopping distance increases and tyre pressures may need to be raised Correct answer.
  4. Braking performance improves because of the extra weight

Explanation

The extra weight of a passenger lengthens stopping distance and changes the motorcycle's handling, so you should allow more following distance and adjust tyre pressures and suspension as recommended by the manufacturer. The weight does not improve braking or stability. Riding exactly as you would solo leaves too little margin.

Question 38General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding in a 50 km/h urban area and pass a school patrol sign held out into the road. What does the sign require of you?

  1. Stop and remain stopped until the sign is withdrawn Correct answer.
  2. Continue if no children are visible on the crossing
  3. Sound your horn and proceed with caution
  4. Slow to 30 km/h and continue past the patrol

Explanation

A school patrol sign held out into the roadway has the same effect as a stop sign: you must stop and stay stopped until the patrol withdraws the sign. The duty applies even if you cannot see children at that moment. Slowing down or sounding the horn does not satisfy the requirement.

Question 39General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding a motorcycle and approach a railway level crossing where the alarm bells are sounding and the barrier arms are starting to lower. What must you do?

  1. Stop and wait until the arms have fully risen again and the alarms stop Correct answer.
  2. Accelerate to cross before the arms come down
  3. Stop on the crossing and wait for the train to pass
  4. Ride around the lowering arm on the opposite side of the road

Explanation

Once the alarms sound and the arms begin to lower, a train is approaching and you must stop and wait until the crossing is fully clear and the alarms have stopped. Trying to beat the arms or riding around them risks a collision with a train. Stopping on the crossing itself is extremely dangerous.

Question 40General road code (road rules, signs, and give way rules)

You are riding in the left lane of a multi-lane road and want to turn right at the next intersection. What is the correct procedure?

  1. Wait until the intersection and turn right from the left lane if no traffic is close
  2. Move into the right lane first, then signal once you are in it
  3. Signal right and turn across the lanes from your current position
  4. Check your mirrors and blind spot, signal right, then move into the right lane when it is safe Correct answer.

Explanation

To turn right from a multi-lane road you must first move into the correct lane, which means checking mirrors and your blind spot, signalling, and changing lanes only when it is safe. Signalling alone does not give you the right to move across other lanes. Turning right from the left lane cuts across traffic and is unsafe.

Question 41Motorcycle riding skills and handling

When you are braking hard on a motorcycle with telescopic forks, what happens to the front suspension and how should you allow for it?

  1. The forks lock solid and the front tyre skips, so you should release the brake lever completely
  2. The forks extend and the front rises, so you should pull the bars upward to keep the wheel down
  3. The forks compress and the front of the bike dips, so the steering becomes slightly quicker and you should keep the bars relaxed Correct answer.
  4. The forks compress and the rear of the bike dips, so you should shift your weight backwards

Explanation

Under braking, weight transfers forward and the front forks compress, which shortens the wheelbase and steepens the steering angle, making the bike turn in more easily. Grip the bars lightly so the steering can do this without your arms fighting it. Weight also comes off the rear, so rear braking contributes little and the rear wheel can lock easily.

Question 42Motorcycle riding skills and handling

On a motorcycle with a separate front and rear brake, what is the recommended way to brake firmly on a dry sealed road?

  1. Apply the front brake only, because the rear brake has no effect
  2. Apply both brakes together, with most of the braking effort coming from the front Correct answer.
  3. Use the rear brake only, because the front brake will cause a crash
  4. Apply the rear brake first and then the front brake firmly once the bike has slowed

Explanation

As weight transfers forward under braking, the front tyre gains grip and provides most of the stopping force, while the rear contributes less. Using both brakes together, with progressive pressure on the front lever, gives the shortest stop while keeping the bike balanced. The rear brake should still be applied, but with lighter pressure to avoid locking.

Question 43Motorcycle riding skills and handling

You are riding at 100 km/h on a wet road and need to stop. Compared with the same stop on a dry road, what should you expect?

  1. The stopping distance will be shorter because wet tyres grip the road better
  2. The stopping distance will be considerably longer, so you should reduce speed and increase following distance Correct answer.
  3. The stopping distance will be shorter because the water cools the brakes
  4. The stopping distance will be about the same if you use both brakes

Explanation

Water on the road reduces the friction available between the tyres and the surface, so the maximum braking force you can use before locking a wheel is lower. That means the bike takes much longer to stop, and you should therefore ride slower and leave a bigger gap in the wet. Braking harder than the available grip allows will lock a wheel or cause a slide.

Question 44Motorcycle riding skills and handling

What is the main purpose of countersteering on a motorcycle?

  1. To lift the front wheel off the ground during acceleration
  2. To keep the front wheel straight while the rear slides
  3. To slow the bike down before a corner
  4. To make the bike lean and turn at speeds above walking pace Correct answer.

Explanation

At speeds above roughly walking pace, a motorcycle turns by leaning, and leaning is initiated by pushing the bar on the side you want to go towards. Pushing the right bar forward steers the front wheel briefly left, which makes the bike lean right and carve the turn. Riders use this input continuously through corners whether or not they are aware of it.

Question 45Motorcycle riding skills and handling

When riding in a strong crosswind on an open road, which technique best helps you hold your line?

  1. Lean hard into the wind and lock your arms straight
  2. Ride close to the centre line so you have room to move
  3. Reduce speed, keep a firm but relaxed grip, and allow room for the bike to be blown sideways Correct answer.
  4. Increase speed sharply to push through the wind

Explanation

A crosswind pushes the bike sideways, and the effect is greater at higher speed and when passing gaps in shelter such as hedges or large vehicles. Slowing down reduces the wind force and gives you time to correct, while a relaxed grip lets the bike self-correct. Leaving space around you means a sudden gust will not push you into another lane or off the road.

Question 46Motorcycle riding skills and handling

What should you check before relying on your motorcycle's front brake in an emergency?

  1. That the rear brake pedal is fully depressed
  2. That the clutch is pulled in and the throttle is closed
  3. That the brake lever has a firm feel and the front tyre is not worn or under-inflated Correct answer.
  4. That the side stand is down and the neutral light is on

Explanation

The front brake provides most of the stopping force, so a spongy lever or a worn, under-inflated front tyre seriously reduces how hard you can brake before losing grip or locking the wheel. A firm lever and a sound front tyre mean the brake can be applied progressively with confidence. These are pre-ride checks, not things to discover mid-emergency.

Question 47Motorcycle riding skills and handling

Why should you avoid pulling the front brake lever abruptly on a gravel or loose-surfaced road?

  1. Because the front brake does not work on gravel at all
  2. Because the rear brake is the only brake that works on loose surfaces
  3. Because abrupt front braking can lock the front wheel and cause a loss of steering control Correct answer.
  4. Because gravel increases grip so the front wheel will lift

Explanation

On loose surfaces the available grip is low and unpredictable, so a sudden grab of the front brake can exceed it and lock the front wheel, which usually results in a fall. Braking should be smooth and progressive, often with more use of the rear brake and lower overall speed. The front brake still works on gravel, but its limits are much lower.

Question 48Motorcycle riding skills and handling

What is the safest way to carry a heavy load on a motorcycle?

  1. Strap it high on the rear rack so it is easy to see
  2. Hold it between your knees while riding
  3. Carry it on one side only to balance the bike
  4. Secure it low and as close to the centre of the bike as possible, and adjust tyre pressure and suspension if needed Correct answer.

Explanation

A heavy load placed low and near the bike's centre of gravity has the least effect on handling and stability. It should be firmly secured so it cannot shift during braking or cornering, and the manufacturer's guidance on tyre pressure and suspension settings for a load should be followed. Poorly placed loads make the bike slow to steer and harder to stop.

Question 49Motorcycle riding skills and handling

You are entering a corner too fast and the bike is running wide. What is the best response?

  1. Put your feet down to slow the bike
  2. Close the throttle sharply and stand the bike upright
  3. Ease off the throttle smoothly and increase lean angle to tighten the line Correct answer.
  4. Grab the front brake hard to scrub off speed

Explanation

If you are running wide, smoothly rolling off the throttle transfers a little weight forward, which helps the front tyre grip and lets the bike tighten its line. Adding lean angle, rather than braking hard mid-corner, keeps the suspension settled and uses the available grip. Abrupt braking or throttle changes mid-corner can overload the front tyre and cause a crash.

Question 50Motorcycle riding skills and handling

Why should you avoid coasting with the clutch pulled in or the bike in neutral while riding downhill?

  1. Because the front brake stops working when the clutch is in
  2. Because the engine will overheat and seize
  3. Because the tyres lose grip when the engine is not driving them
  4. Because you lose engine braking and the ability to accelerate out of trouble quickly Correct answer.

Explanation

With the clutch in or the gearbox in neutral, the engine no longer provides engine braking to help control speed on a descent, and you cannot apply power instantly if you need to accelerate away from a hazard. You must rely entirely on the brakes, which can overheat on a long descent. Keeping the bike in gear gives you both control options.