UK Motorcycle Theory Test Riding Techniques 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does IPSGA stand for in the motorcycle system of control?
- Ignition, Power, Steering, Grip, Acceleration
- Information, Position, Speed, Gear, Acceleration (Correct answer)
- Indicate, Park, Stop, Go, Alert
- Inspect, Prepare, Start, Go, Arrive
Correct answer: Information, Position, Speed, Gear, Acceleration
IPSGA stands for Information (gathering and giving), Position (on the road), Speed (adjusting for the hazard), Gear (selecting the right gear), and Acceleration (applying power to leave the hazard). This system is used when approaching any hazard.
Question 2: Why should you avoid riding in the gutter (close to the kerb)?
- It makes no difference where you ride in the lane
- Debris, drain covers, wet leaves, and poor road surface collect at the edges, reducing grip (Correct answer)
- The gutter is reserved for cyclists
- Police will stop you for riding too close to the kerb
Correct answer: Debris, drain covers, wet leaves, and poor road surface collect at the edges, reducing grip
The road edge collects debris (gravel, glass, leaves), has drain covers (slippery when wet), often has the poorest road surface, and positions you where you are least visible to other road users. The primary riding position is usually the right third of the lane.
Question 3: What is 'target fixation' and why is it dangerous for motorcyclists?
- Focusing on your destination on a map
- Looking at a hazard you want to avoid, which causes you to steer towards it involuntarily (Correct answer)
- Staring at the speedometer while riding
- Fixating on the vehicle ahead
Correct answer: Looking at a hazard you want to avoid, which causes you to steer towards it involuntarily
Target fixation is a natural tendency to steer towards whatever you are looking at. If you fixate on a hazard (such as an obstacle or the edge of the road), you will unconsciously steer towards it. The solution is to look where you want to go, not at what you want to avoid.
Question 4: When filtering through slow-moving traffic, what should a motorcyclist be particularly aware of?
- Nothing — filtering is completely safe
- Vehicles changing lanes without signalling, doors opening, pedestrians crossing between vehicles, and gaps closing suddenly (Correct answer)
- Only the speed limit
- Whether filtering is legal (it always is)
Correct answer: Vehicles changing lanes without signalling, doors opening, pedestrians crossing between vehicles, and gaps closing suddenly
When filtering, riders must watch for vehicles changing lanes (often without mirrors or signals), car doors opening, pedestrians crossing between stationary vehicles, gaps closing suddenly, and vehicles turning across the traffic flow. Speed must be kept low enough to stop.
Question 5: How should you negotiate a series of bends (an S-bend)?
- Maintain a constant speed and lean angle throughout
- Adjust your position, speed, and lean angle for each bend individually, using the system of control (Correct answer)
- Take the straightest line possible across both lanes
- Brake continuously through all the bends
Correct answer: Adjust your position, speed, and lean angle for each bend individually, using the system of control
Each bend in a series should be treated individually using the IPSGA system. Adjust road position for the best view through each bend, control speed between bends, and ensure you are positioned correctly before each new curve. Never carry excess speed between bends.
Question 6: What is the advantage of engine braking for motorcyclists?
- It makes the engine last longer
- It provides smooth, controlled deceleration without activating the brake light, useful for gradual speed reduction (Correct answer)
- Engine braking does not slow the motorcycle
- It is faster than using the brakes
Correct answer: It provides smooth, controlled deceleration without activating the brake light, useful for gradual speed reduction
Engine braking provides smooth, progressive deceleration by using lower gears. It helps maintain control, reduces brake wear, and keeps the drivetrain engaged for immediate acceleration if needed. However, it does not activate the brake light, so following drivers may not realise you are slowing.
UK Motorcycle Theory Test Riding Techniques 2
What does IPSGA stand for in the motorcycle system of control?