Motorcycle Controls & Operation

Study questions with answers

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

1. 1. Which item is required equipment on a street-legal motorcycle?

   Correct answer: A horn

   Basic required equipment includes a working horn, along with lights, brakes, signals, and mirrors.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual (18th ed.), Oklahoma edition — Know Your Motorcycle

2. 2. If you downshift while still going too fast, what can happen?

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

   Downshifting at too high a speed can make the bike lurch and cause the rear wheel to skid.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual (18th ed.), Oklahoma edition — Shifting Gears

3. 3. Which foot operates the gearshift lever?

   Correct answer: The left foot

   The shift lever sits ahead of the left footrest and is worked by your left foot.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual (18th ed.), Oklahoma edition — Shifting Gears

4. 4. On a typical 1-N-2-3-4-5 pattern, where is neutral located?

   Correct answer: Between first and second gear

   Neutral sits between first and second gear, selected by a half-movement of the lever from either one.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual (18th ed.), Oklahoma edition — Shifting Gears

5. 5. How do you shift into a higher gear on a typical motorcycle?

   Correct answer: Lift the shift lever up with your foot

   To move up a gear you slip your foot under the lever and lift it, then release.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual (18th ed.), Oklahoma edition — Shifting Gears

6. 6. Why is it best to finish shifting before you enter a turn?

   Correct answer: A sudden burst of power to the rear tire can break traction

   A sudden burst of power reaching the rear tire during a turn can break traction and lead to a skid.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual (18th ed.), Oklahoma edition — Shifting Gears

7. 7. If your throttle sticks open while riding, what is the best immediate response?

   Correct answer: Flip the engine kill switch while pulling in the clutch

   If the throttle will not close, flip the engine kill switch while pulling in the clutch so power stops reaching the rear tire.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual (18th ed.), Oklahoma edition — Mechanical Problems

8. 8. Starting a ride with your right wrist held flat helps you avoid what?

   Correct answer: Accidentally using too much throttle

   A flat right wrist keeps you from unintentionally rolling on too much throttle.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual (18th ed.), Oklahoma edition — Basic Vehicle Control

9. 9. Which gear should you keep the motorcycle in while stopped in traffic?

   Correct answer: First gear

   Staying in first gear while stopped lets you pull away quickly if you need to move.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual (18th ed.), Oklahoma edition — Shifting Gears

10. 10. A closed fuel valve may let the engine start but then cause what?

    Correct answer: The engine to stall once the fuel lines empty

    With the fuel valve shut, the engine can run briefly on fuel left in the lines but will stall once that fuel is gone.

    Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual (18th ed.), Oklahoma edition — Know Your Motorcycle

11. 11. Where should your knees be positioned to help you keep your balance?

    Correct answer: Pressed against the gas tank

    Keeping your knees pressed against the fuel tank helps you stay balanced as the motorcycle turns.

    Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual (18th ed.), Oklahoma edition — Basic Vehicle Control

12. 12. At a minimum, how many mirrors should a street-legal motorcycle have?

    Correct answer: Two

    A street-legal motorcycle should be equipped with at least two mirrors.

    Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual (18th ed.), Oklahoma edition — Know Your Motorcycle