MSF Basic Riding Skills 4

Question 1

What is the best way to ride through a curve on a wet road?

Accepted Answer

Slow down before the curve, maintain a smooth steady throttle through it

Answer

Reducing speed before the curve and maintaining a smooth throttle through it minimizes the risk of losing traction on wet pavement.

Question 2

When preparing to stop at an intersection, in what order should you operate the controls?

Accepted Answer

Apply brakes first to slow, then downshift as speed decreases

Answer

Braking first slows the motorcycle, then downshifting through gears keeps the engine in range and you prepared to accelerate if needed.

Question 3

What is the danger of 'coasting' in neutral or with the clutch pulled in while descending a hill?

Accepted Answer

You lose engine braking, increasing speed and relying solely on friction brakes

Answer

Coasting removes engine braking, causing the bike to accelerate on descents and overwork the friction brakes.

Question 4

When is it appropriate to use the front brake alone on a motorcycle?

Accepted Answer

In most situations, particularly above low speed where front braking is most effective

Answer

The front brake provides the majority of stopping power and can be used effectively above slow speeds, though using both is generally recommended.

Question 5

What should you do before swerving to avoid an obstacle?

Accepted Answer

Release the brakes if applied, then swerve

Answer

Braking during a swerve can cause the tires to lose traction; release the brakes first, swerve, then reapply brakes after straightening.

MSF - Motorcycle Safety Foundation Practice Test