New Zealand Motorbike Driving Pre-Ride Vehicle Checks Questions and Answers

Question 1

According to New Zealand law, what is the minimum legal tread depth required for a motorcycle tyre?

Accepted Answer

1.5mm

Answer

The minimum legal tread depth for a motorcycle tyre in New Zealand is 1.5mm. For most modern tyres, this depth must be present in all principal grooves that contain moulded tread-depth indicators around the entire circumference of the tyre.

Question 2

During your pre-ride check, you notice the drive chain has excessive slack, hanging down much more than usual. What is the most significant and immediate risk this poses?

Accepted Answer

The chain could come off the sprockets, locking the rear wheel.

Answer

An excessively loose chain is at high risk of derailing from the sprockets. If this happens while riding, it can jam between the engine and the frame or wrap around the front sprocket, causing the rear wheel to lock up suddenly and leading to a complete loss of control.

Question 3

Before setting off, you perform a check on your motorcycle's lights. Which of the following is a complete and correct check of the headlight function?

Accepted Answer

Switching between the high and low beams to ensure both are working.

Answer

A complete pre-ride check of the headlight involves verifying that both the high and low beams are operational. This ensures you have appropriate lighting for all conditions—low beam for normal traffic and high beam for visibility on open, unlit roads.

Question 4

You are checking your controls before a ride. After starting the engine, you gently twist the throttle and then release it. What is the correct and safe response you should expect from the throttle?

Accepted Answer

It should 'snap' back to the closed (idle) position instantly.

Answer

For safety, the throttle must operate smoothly and snap back to its closed position without any assistance as soon as you release it. A sticky or slow-to-return throttle can cause unintended acceleration, creating a very dangerous situation.

Question 5

When performing a stationary check of your front brake before riding, what is the standard and most effective procedure?

Accepted Answer

Squeeze the brake lever firmly and try to push the motorcycle forward.

Answer

The standard check is to apply the front brake lever firmly while the motorcycle is stationary and then attempt to rock or push it forward. The motorcycle should not move, confirming that the brake is engaging correctly and has sufficient force to hold the bike before you enter traffic.

New Zealand Motorbike Driving Test Practice Test

New Zealand Motorbike Driving Test Practice Test

New Zealand Motorbike Driving Pre-Ride Vehicle Checks Questions and Answers