California MOTORCYCLE DMV Practice Test 13

While riding in a staggered formation is generally advisable, a group of motorcyclists should switch to a single-file formation when riding in curves, turning, and entering or leaving a highway.

No matter the speed, riders who are not wearing helmets are three times more likely to die from head injuries than riders who are wearing helmets at the time of a crash.

A primary cause of single-vehicle collisions is motorcyclists running too wide in a curve or turn. Taking a turn too wide can cause a motorcycle to leave the roadway or collide with an object.

When taking a long trip, be sure to schedule in frequent breaks to rest, even if you do not feel tired. Experienced operators seldom try to ride for longer than six hours a day. Wind, cold, and rain can make you tire quickly, so be sure to dress to protect yourself from the elements.

If you can do so safely, change lanes and let the tailgater pass. Speeding up may only result in them continuing to tailgate you at a higher speed, increasing the danger.

The front brake of a motorcycle is more powerful than the rear brake. It can provide at least 70 percent of a motorcycle's total stopping power.

A “wobble” is when the front wheel and handlebars suddenly start to shake from side to side. Most wobbles are a result of improper loading, unsuitable accessories, or incorrect tire pressure.

If your motorcycle begins to weave when riding over grooves or gratings, simply maintain a steady speed and proceed straight across the surface. Trying to compensate for the weave by riding at an angle forces you to zigzag to stay in your lane, which is more dangerous.

You will get the maximum protection from your helmet if it meets U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and state standards, fits snugly all the way around, and has no obvious defects.

You should shift down through the gears with the clutch as you slow or stop. Remain in first gear while stopped so you can move quickly, if needed.

Warning signs are yellow with black lettering or symbols and provide important information to motorists about upcoming road conditions. This sign warns that a railroad crossing is ahead.

It is important to consistently check vehicles approaching your motorcycle from behind to determine if drivers are paying attention to you and your movements. Use your mirrors when stopping at an intersection to make sure approaching drivers are responding appropriately to your actions.

Warning signs are yellow with black lettering or symbols and provide important information to motorists about upcoming road conditions. This sign warns that the roadway ahead is likely to be slippery when wet.

When entering a curve, adjust your lane position to optimize your ability to see and be seen. Riding in the right portion of your lane when traveling through a lefthand curve may help you spot oncoming traffic as soon as possible. When traveling through a righthand curve, riding in a left center position may allow you to see oncoming cars early without putting you so close to the centerline that you could be hit by oncoming vehicles that take the curve too widely.

All motorcycles are at least somewhat different. Before riding a motorcycle that is new to you, take the time to learn where all of the controls are. Ride the motorcycle in a controlled area to get used to it before taking it out on the road.

Make sure your motorcycle's transmission is in neutral before you start the engine. Most motorcycles have a neutral indicator on the speedometer that lights up when the ignition switch is on and the cycle is in neutral.

Reduce your speed before entering a turn. If you take a turn too fast, you may end up veering out of your lane or even off the road.

When riding a motorcycle, it is highly recommended that you wear protective apparel. Look for a jacket that completely covers your arms and fits snugly but still allows you to move freely. Leather or sturdy synthetic materials with integrated body armor offer the best protection.

When passing a row of parked cars, the left portion of the lane is generally safest for travel. This position will help you avoid hazards like doors being opened, people stepping out from between the parked cars, and cars pulling out of parking spaces. Always be ready to adjust your lane position to respond to changing road and traffic conditions.

When riding at night, you should increase your following distance. Slow down and be flexible about your lane position.

Motorcycles have blind spots, just like cars. You should always turn your head to check your blind spot before changing lanes.

The front brake should not be used when making a U-turn because it could cause the bike to tip over. Instead, use the rear brake to control the speed of the bike in the U-turn.

If a tire goes flat while you are riding, hold onto the handgrips firmly and concentrate on maintaining a straight course. Brake only if you are sure which tire is flat. Exit the roadway once your motorcycle has slowed considerably.

It is important for motorcyclists to avoid lingering in the blind spots of any vehicle, especially in those of large trucks. Remember that if you can't see the truck's mirrors, the driver can't see you.

Motorcyclists may pass on the right if there is unobstructed pavement with a width of at least eight feet to the right of the vehicle being passed. Motorcyclists, and other drivers, should never leave the road to pass another vehicle.

Wearing bright or reflective clothing can help make you more visible to other drivers and reduce your risk of being involved in a collision. Always maintain an awareness of surrounding drivers to better prepare yourself for their movements.

At night, you should always ride at a lower speed than you would under similar conditions during the day. Doing so will give you a better chance of avoiding hazards. Additionally, increase your following distance and be flexible about your lane position.

It is illegal to operate a motor-driven cycle or moped on a freeway or expressway if signs are posted prohibiting their operation.

As you approach an intersection, select a lane position that will make you the most visible to other drivers and cover the clutch and both brakes to reduce your reaction time. Reduce your speed when approaching an intersection. Avoid changing your speed or position radically as doing so may cause surrounding drivers to misinterpret your intentions.

The front brake of a motorcycle is more powerful than the rear brake. It can provide three-quarters of the bike's total stopping power.