MSF Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield MSF facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. When should a passenger be allowed to mount the motorcycle? → Only after the engine is running and the rider signals it is okay
2. How many feet should you signal before making your desired turn? → 100 feet.
3. Which section of a traffic lane should you ride in? → Place yourself where people are most likely to notice you.
4. When inspecting the 'Chassis' as part of the T-CLOCS checklist, what is a key item to examine on a bike with a chain final drive? → Proper tension and lubrication
5. Which of the following represents the correct sequence for the MSF's recommended pre-start check, known as FINE-C? → Fuel, Ignition, Neutral, Engine cut-off switch, Choke/Clutch.
6. During a quick stop, a rider locks the rear wheel. What is the recommended immediate action to maintain control of the motorcycle? → Keep the rear brake locked and concentrate on steering in a straight line.
7. Unlike other cars, motorcycles do not have blind zones. → False
8. You are riding in first gear at a walking pace and need to slow down slightly without stopping. Which is the most appropriate initial action? → Squeeze the clutch lever slightly further into the friction zone.
9. Maintaining a margin of safety entails: → Make space and time.
10. A rider is preparing to start a motorcycle. According to the MSF's FINE-C pre-start routine, what does the 'E' represent? → Engine cut-off switch to the 'ON' position
11. The ideal method for swerving is to → Press the handlegrip to the desired side to swerve instead of braking.
12. Which motorcycle lane positions are the safest? → Depending on conditions.
13. Keeping the pre-ride inspection checklist in mind can be achieved by considering: → T-CLOCS.
14. Which hand signal is correct for a left turn? → Arm and hand extended out.
15. How does the consumption of even a small amount of alcohol affect a motorcyclist's abilities? → It degrades judgment and the ability to process information.
16. What is the primary purpose of the red engine cut-off switch located on the right handlebar? → To quickly shut off the engine in an emergency without removing a hand from the controls
17. While riding through a curve, you realize you are going too fast. What is the proper technique to slow down safely? → Straighten the motorcycle, apply both brakes smoothly, then re-establish lean
18. Which of the following best describes the concept of "threshold braking" on a motorcycle without ABS? → Applying maximum braking pressure just before the point of wheel lock-up.
19. Which of the following is the most critical feature of proper motorcycle riding footwear? → They cover the ankles and have sturdy, non-slip soles.
20. Besides alcohol and illegal drugs, which of the following can significantly impair a rider's ability to operate a motorcycle safely? → Over-the-counter cold medication.
21. During which maneuvers is a cargo weight shift most dangerous? → During cornering and braking maneuvers
22. Some wise counsel for biking in chilly weather is to: → Put on layers of clothing.
23. The odds of surviving a head injury are three times higher for motorcyclists wearing helmets compared to those who do not. → TRUE
24. When loading cargo onto a motorcycle, where should the heaviest items be placed? → Low and centered, close to the motorcycle's center of gravity
25. What is the best practice regarding the height of cargo strapped on top of a motorcycle? → Keep cargo as low as possible and avoid stacking it high above the seat
26. According to the MSF T-CLOCS pre-ride inspection checklist, what does the 'C' represent? → Controls
27. On a motorcycle, the shift pattern is: → Lift the gearshift lever to engage the higher gears.
28. When carrying both a passenger and cargo simultaneously, what riding adjustments are most important? → Allow greater following distance, brake earlier, and enter corners more slowly
29. Which of the following describes the correct and immediate sequence of actions if your motorcycle's throttle becomes stuck in the open position while riding? → Pull in the clutch lever completely and simultaneously use the engine cut-off switch.
30. The primary goal of the SEE (Search, Evaluate, Execute) strategy is to: → Help a rider create and maintain time and space by managing risk proactively.