MSF Skills 4

Question 1

When riding over a pothole you cannot avoid, what is the best technique?

Accepted Answer

Rise slightly off the seat and grip the tank to allow suspension to work freely

Answer

Unweighting the seat lets the suspension absorb the impact without bottoming out and prevents you from being thrown off balance.

Question 2

What technique is used to initiate a controlled lean when entering a curve at speed?

Accepted Answer

Counter-steering — pressing on the grip in the direction of the turn

Answer

At speeds above about 12 mph, counter-steering — pressing forward on the inside grip — is the primary mechanism for initiating a lean.

Question 3

If you feel the rear wheel begin to slide during cornering, what is the correct initial response?

Accepted Answer

Gradually roll on more throttle to bring the rear back in line

Answer

Smoothly adding a little throttle can help stabilize a rear-wheel slide by keeping the tire loaded; abrupt changes worsen the slide.

Question 4

What is 'trail braking' in motorcycle riding?

Accepted Answer

Continuing light front brake pressure partway through a curve entry

Answer

Trail braking means maintaining gentle front brake pressure as you begin to lean into a corner, allowing later braking and smoother corner entry.

Question 5

Which foot position provides the best control and protection while riding?

Accepted Answer

Balls of the feet on the pegs with toes pointed forward

Answer

Placing the balls of your feet on the pegs gives you leverage for shifting and braking while keeping your ankles free to absorb vibration.

MSF - Motorcycle Safety Foundation Practice Test