New Zealand Motorbike Driving Basic Handling Skills Test Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following is NOT one of the four official stages of the New Zealand Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST)?

Accepted Answer

Lane positioning and hazard identification

Answer

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.

Question 2

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?

Accepted Answer

Apply both brakes firmly and progressively, with the front brake doing most of the work.

Answer

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.

Question 3

A rider is performing the 'Linking figures of eight' stage. What key skill is the examiner primarily assessing during this manoeuvre?

Accepted Answer

Low-speed balance, coordination, and clutch/throttle control

Answer

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.

Question 4

What is the immediate consequence of successfully passing the Basic Handling Skills Test?

Accepted Answer

You are issued a certificate which allows you to apply for a motorcycle learner licence (Class 6L) and sit the theory test.

Answer

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.

Question 5

During any stage of the BHST, what is a critical error that could result in an immediate fail?

Accepted Answer

Losing control and dropping the motorcycle.

Answer

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.

New Zealand Motorbike Driving Test Practice Test

New Zealand Motorbike Driving Test Practice Test

New Zealand Motorbike Driving Basic Handling Skills Test Questions and Answers