Connecticut MOTORCYCLE DMV Practice Test 1

Usually, the best way to handle a tailgater is to get them in front of you. If you can do so safely, change lanes and let them pass. Speeding up may only increase the danger by encouraging them to follow you at a faster speed.

To be effective, an eye or face shield must be free of scratches; be resistant to penetration; allow clear views to both sides; fasten securely; permit air to pass through to prevent fogging; and allow room for eyeglasses or sunglasses, if needed.

For maximum straight-line braking, you should apply the brakes smoothly and firmly. As more weight transfers forward, more will be more traction available at the front wheel, allowing you to apply the front brake with progressively increasing force while reducing the pressure being used on the rear brake. Keep your knees against the gas tank and your eyes up to help keep yourself moving in a straight line.

When passing a row of parked cars, it is often safest to ride in the left portion of your lane. Riding in the left portion will keep you farthest from any opening car doors, people stepping out from between cars, and cars pulling out of parking spaces.

A child passenger on a motorcycle should always ride immediately behind the operator. A child sitting in front may be unable to balance properly and could interfere with the operator's use of the controls.

To reduce your risk of being involved in a crash, you must ensure that you are visible to others on the road and that other drivers understand what you're planning to do. Clearly communicate your intentions through proper signaling and lane positioning. Maintain an adequate space cushion and scan your path of travel, identifying upcoming hazards and being prepared to react.

If you over-apply your brakes, you may lose traction on one or both wheels and crash.

Appropriate clothing can reduce the risk of injury in a crash. Choose a jacket and pants that cover your arms and legs, are made of sturdy material, and are snug enough that they do not flap in the wind.

In Connecticut, a motor-driven cycle (also known as a moped) is legally defined as any motorcycle, motor scooter, or bicycle with an attached motor that produces no more than five brake horsepower and seat that is at least 26 inches from the ground.

To help keep the operator focused on riding, passengers should avoid unnecessary conversation or movement. Passengers should get on a motorcycle only after the engine has been started. They should sit as far forward as they can without crowding the operator and hold firmly onto the operator's waist, hips, or belt.

Distances are difficult to judge in the dark because visual cues (like shadows and light contrasts) can be missing or distorted. You should allow a longer following distance when riding at night than you do when riding during the day.

Most motorcycles have a manual transmission. Downshifting to a lower gear will slow you down.

If your motorcycle has a sidecar, it is best for your passenger to ride in the sidecar. They should keep their hands inside the sidecar at all times.

When riding, sit so you are able use your arms to control the motorcycle rather than to hold yourself up. Your arms should be slightly bent when you are holding the handle grips. To help maintain your balance, keep your knees against the gas tank and your feet firmly on the footrests.

When following a car, you should ride in a position that allows the driver to see you in their rearview mirror. Usually, that means riding in the center portion of the lane. Because most drivers check their rearview mirrors much more often than they check their side mirrors, being in this lane position increases the chance that they will see you.

To reduce the risk of being involved in a crash, ensure that you are visible to others on the road. Communicate your intentions through your turn signals, brake light, and lane position. Maintain an adequate space cushion, scan your path of travel 12 seconds ahead of your vehicle, and be prepared to act if any hazards arise.