Braking & Emergency Stops

Study questions with answers

3 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. If you accidentally lock the rear brake and the rear wheel begins to skid in a straight line, you should:

   Correct answer: Keep the rear brake locked until you have stopped, as long as you are moving straight

   If the rear wheel is already skidding in a straight line, keep the rear brake applied until you stop. Suddenly releasing a locked rear wheel while it is out of line can throw you off.

   Source: Texas Motorcycle Operator's Manual — Rear-Wheel Skids

2. 2. If you brake hard and the front wheel locks up, you should:

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

   A locked front wheel can cause a fall almost instantly. Release the front brake at once so the wheel can roll again, then squeeze it back on smoothly.

   Source: Texas Motorcycle Operator's Manual — Braking and Skids

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

   Correct answer: Apply both brakes firmly while keeping the motorcycle upright and the handlebars straight

   Maximum braking uses both brakes together. Keep the motorcycle straight up and the wheels in line; braking hard while leaned over can cause a skid.

   Source: Texas Motorcycle Operator's Manual — Stopping Quickly