New Zealand Motorbike Driving Basic Handling Skills Flashcards
6 cards from real New Zealand Motorbike Driving Test practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 New Zealand Motorbike Driving Basic Handling Skills flashcards as text
Which of the following is NOT one of the four official stages of the New Zealand Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST)?
Answer: Lane positioning and hazard identification
The BHST is conducted in an off-road area and consists of four specific stages: 1) Basic turn and stop, 2) Figure of eight and park, 3) Linking figures of eight, and 4) Increased speed and emergency stop. Lane positioning and hazard identification are skills assessed in on-road practical tests, not the BHST.
During the 'Increased speed and emergency stop' stage of the BHST, what is the primary action you should take when the examiner signals you to stop?
Answer: Apply both brakes firmly and progressively, with the front brake doing most of the work.
The correct technique for an emergency stop is to close the throttle and apply both brakes firmly and progressively. The front brake provides the majority of the stopping power. Slamming on a single brake can cause a skid, and downshifting is not the priority during the initial stop.
A rider is performing the 'Linking figures of eight' stage. What key skill is the examiner primarily assessing during this manoeuvre?
Answer: Low-speed balance, coordination, and clutch/throttle control
The 'Linking figures of eight' stage is designed specifically to test a rider's ability to maintain balance and control of the motorcycle at low speeds. It requires precise coordination of steering input, clutch, and throttle to perform tight turns without putting a foot down.
What is the immediate consequence of successfully passing the Basic Handling Skills Test?
Answer: You are issued a certificate which allows you to apply for a motorcycle learner licence (Class 6L) and sit the theory test.
Passing the BHST does not grant a licence. It provides you with a certificate. You must then take this certificate to a licensing agent (e.g., AA or VTNZ) to apply for your learner licence, which involves passing a theory test and an eyesight check.
During any stage of the BHST, what is a critical error that could result in an immediate fail?
Answer: Losing control and dropping the motorcycle.
Losing complete control of the motorcycle, such as dropping it, is considered a critical error and would typically result in an immediate failure of the test. While stalling or forgetting a signal may incur penalty points, they are not usually grounds for automatic failure unless repeated excessively.
In the context of the BHST, what are 'head checks' most critical for?
Answer: Observing your blind spots before changing position or moving off.
Head checks are a mandatory and assessed part of the BHST. They are used to check blind spots before moving off, changing direction, or parking to ensure the path is clear. This is a crucial safety habit for all on-road riding.