Braking & Emergency Stops

Study questions with answers

4 sample Braking & Emergency Stops questions with the correct answer, a short explanation, and the official handbook reference. Read through them, then take the quiz above.

1. 1. An object suddenly appears in your path and you are too close to stop in time. Your best option is usually to:

   Correct answer: Swerve around the object

   When there is not enough room to stop, swerve around the object instead. Press on the handgrip in the direction you want to go for a quick, smooth turn, and keep the motorcycle upright — do not brake while you are swerving.

   Source: New York State Motorcycle Manual — Swerving or Turning Quickly

2. 2. Which brake provides the greatest share of a motorcycle's stopping power?

   Correct answer: The front brake

   The front brake supplies about three-quarters of your stopping power, because weight shifts forward when you slow. Used smoothly and properly, the front brake is safe and is your strongest tool for stopping.

   Source: New York State Motorcycle Manual — Braking

3. 3. To stop as quickly and safely as possible in an emergency, you should:

   Correct answer: Use both the front and rear brakes at the same time

   For maximum braking, apply both brakes together. Using both gives you the shortest stopping distance; relying on just one wheel wastes much of your available stopping power.

   Source: New York State Motorcycle Manual — Braking

4. 4. If your front wheel locks up while you are braking hard, what should you do?

   Correct answer: Release the front brake immediately, then reapply it smoothly

   A locked front wheel can cause a fall almost instantly. Release the front brake at once to let the wheel roll again, then squeeze it back on smoothly. A locked rear wheel is less critical and can be kept locked until you stop if you are traveling in a straight line.

   Source: New York State Motorcycle Manual — Handling Skids