Speed, Stopping Distances & Following Distance Flashcards

At 60 mph, approximately how many feet does a motorcycle travel each second?

Answer: 88 feet

At 60 mph a vehicle covers 88 feet per second, which is why speed dramatically affects the distance needed to stop.

How does doubling your speed affect your braking distance?

Answer: It quadruples the braking distance

Braking distance increases with the square of speed, so doubling speed quadruples the distance needed to stop.

What is the minimum recommended following distance for motorcyclists under normal conditions?

Answer: Two seconds

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) recommends a minimum two-second following distance under normal, dry conditions.

On wet or slippery roads, how should you adjust your following distance?

Answer: Increase to at least three or four seconds

Wet surfaces significantly increase stopping distances, so a three- to four-second gap is needed to maintain a safety margin.

Approximately how far does a motorcycle travel before stopping from 30 mph, including reaction time?

Answer: About 75 feet

At 30 mph, reaction distance is roughly 30 feet and braking distance is about 45 feet, totaling approximately 75 feet.

Which factor does NOT directly increase a motorcycle's stopping distance?

Answer: Riding in the left lane position

Lane position is a strategic choice that doesn't affect the physical mechanics of braking distance; speed, tire condition, and load all do.

What is the primary purpose of maintaining a proper following distance on a motorcycle?

Answer: To give yourself time to identify and react to hazards

A proper following distance gives you time to perceive a hazard and apply the brakes before reaching the danger point.