MSF Controls and Operation 5 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the recommended idle speed range for most motorcycles when at operating temperature?
- 500–800 RPM
- 1,000–1,500 RPM (Correct answer)
- 2,000–2,500 RPM
- 3,000+ RPM
Correct answer: 1,000–1,500 RPM
Most motorcycles are set to idle between 1,000 and 1,500 RPM when warmed up; consult your owner's manual for the exact specification.
Question 2: Why is it important to check that the throttle snaps back to idle when released?
- To confirm fuel injection is working
- A stuck throttle can cause uncontrolled acceleration and a crash (Correct answer)
- To test the choke system
- To verify the tachometer accuracy
Correct answer: A stuck throttle can cause uncontrolled acceleration and a crash
A throttle that does not return to idle can cause the motorcycle to accelerate even when the rider is not rolling it, creating a dangerous situation.
Question 3: How does the kill switch differ from turning the ignition key off?
- The kill switch also turns off the lights
- The kill switch shuts off the engine quickly without requiring a hand to leave the handlebar (Correct answer)
- The ignition key is faster to use
- There is no practical difference between the two
Correct answer: The kill switch shuts off the engine quickly without requiring a hand to leave the handlebar
The kill switch allows the rider to cut the engine instantly in an emergency while keeping both hands on the bars.
Question 4: What does it mean when a motorcycle's handlebars feel unusually heavy or resist turning?
- The throttle cable is loose
- The steering head bearings may be too tight or damaged, or tires may be improperly inflated (Correct answer)
- The rear suspension is set too soft
- The oil level is low
Correct answer: The steering head bearings may be too tight or damaged, or tires may be improperly inflated
Heavy or restricted steering often indicates a mechanical problem such as tight or worn steering bearings or under-inflated tires.
Question 5: When riding with a passenger, how should you adjust your braking technique?
- Apply brakes harder and earlier because of the increased weight
- Begin braking earlier and apply brakes more gradually to account for added stopping distance (Correct answer)
- Rely more on engine braking since brakes are less effective with a passenger
- No adjustment is needed
Correct answer: Begin braking earlier and apply brakes more gradually to account for added stopping distance
Added weight increases momentum, so earlier and more gradual brake application is needed to stop in the same distance.
Question 6: What is the purpose of a slipper clutch on modern motorcycles?
- To prevent the front wheel from lifting under acceleration
- To prevent rear wheel lockup during aggressive downshifting (Correct answer)
- To assist in clutchless upshifts
- To reduce clutch lever effort
Correct answer: To prevent rear wheel lockup during aggressive downshifting
A slipper (back-torque limiting) clutch partially disengages during aggressive engine braking to prevent rear wheel hop or lockup.
Question 7: What should you do if the front wheel begins to slide while braking?
- Apply more front brake pressure immediately
- Release the front brake immediately to allow the wheel to regain traction (Correct answer)
- Increase throttle to stabilize the bike
- Apply the rear brake harder to compensate
Correct answer: Release the front brake immediately to allow the wheel to regain traction
Releasing front brake pressure allows the wheel to spin again and regain traction; continuing to brake on a sliding front wheel causes a fall.
MSF Controls and Operation 5
What is the recommended idle speed range for most motorcycles when at operating temperature?