Speed & Space Management

Study questions with answers

12 sample Speed & Space Management questions with the correct answer, a short explanation, and the official handbook reference. Read through them, then take the quiz above.

1. 1. At night, what following distance does the manual recommend opening up?

   Correct answer: Three seconds or more

   Because distances are harder to judge at night, riders should open a three-second following distance or more.

   Source: Alabama Motorcycle Operator Manual - Riding at Night

2. 2. What does shifting to a lower gear produce that is similar to using the brakes?

   Correct answer: Engine braking

   Shifting down slows the motorcycle through what is called engine braking.

   Source: Alabama Motorcycle Operator Manual - Shifting Gears

3. 3. What is a benefit of keeping a cushion of space around your motorcycle?

   Correct answer: It gives more time to respond and room to maneuver

   A space cushion gives you more time to respond and more room to maneuver, including an escape path if someone else makes a mistake.

   Source: Alabama Motorcycle Operator Manual - Keeping Your Distance

4. 4. What is a common cause of riders crossing into another lane or leaving the road on curves?

   Correct answer: Taking the curve too fast to hold the turn

   Riders often enter curves too fast, then cannot hold the line and either cross into another lane or run off the road.

   Source: Alabama Motorcycle Operator Manual - Turning

5. 5. Where is a good lane position to choose before entering a curve, according to the manual?

   Correct answer: The center of your lane

   Moving to the center of your lane before a curve and staying there lets you spot approaching traffic and adjust for hazards.

   Source: Alabama Motorcycle Operator Manual - Crash Avoidance: Curves

6. 6. In which gear should a rider remain while stopped in traffic?

   Correct answer: First gear

   Keep the bike in first gear at a stop so a quick getaway is possible when needed.

   Source: Alabama Motorcycle Operator Manual - Shifting Gears

7. 7. How should the amount of engine RPM guide when you upshift?

   Correct answer: Shift before over-revving but not so early the engine lugs

   Upshift early enough that the engine does not over-rev, yet late enough that it does not lug.

   Source: Alabama Motorcycle Operator Manual - Shifting Gears

8. 8. What can happen if a rider shifts into a lower gear while going too fast?

   Correct answer: The bike may lurch and the rear wheel may skid

   Downshifting at too high a speed can make the motorcycle lurch and the rear wheel may skid.

   Source: Alabama Motorcycle Operator Manual - Shifting Gears

9. 9. Where is the gearshift lever located on a typical motorcycle, and how is it operated?

   Correct answer: In front of the left footrest, worked by the left foot

   Positioned just ahead of the left footrest, the gearshift lever is worked using the left foot.

   Source: Alabama Motorcycle Operator Manual - Shifting Gears

10. 10. A primary cause of single-vehicle motorcycle crashes is:

    Correct answer: Running wide in a curve or turn

    Running wide in a curve or turn is a primary cause of single-vehicle motorcycle crashes.

    Source: Alabama Motorcycle Operator Manual - Crash Avoidance: Curves

11. 11. When is the best time to change gears in relation to a turn?

    Correct answer: Before entering the turn

    Shifting is best completed ahead of a turn, although a smooth gear change partway through one is sometimes unavoidable.

    Source: Alabama Motorcycle Operator Manual - Shifting Gears

12. 12. A two-second following distance leaves what for the rider if the driver ahead stops suddenly?

    Correct answer: A minimum space to stop or swerve

    A two-second gap gives you barely enough room to brake or steer aside should the vehicle in front halt abruptly, and a clearer view of hazards.

    Source: Alabama Motorcycle Operator Manual - Following Another Vehicle