Practice question

What should you do if your motorcycle begins to skid?

  1. Accelerate to regain control
  2. Apply brakes firmly
  3. Release the throttle and steer in the direction of the skid
  4. Turn the handlebars sharply

Answer: C — Release the throttle and steer in the direction of the skid

When your motorcycle begins to skid, the best course of action is to release the throttle and steer in the direction of the skid. This technique helps you maintain balance and control over the motorcycle. By letting off the throttle, you decrease power to the rear wheel, which can help to reduce the risk of a highside crash. Steering in the direction of the skid allows the motorcycle to naturally realign with the intended path, as your body and the bike need to work together to regain stability. This response is critical in preventing the skid from escalating into a more serious loss of control. Accelerating in a skid would typically worsen the situation, as it can lead to a complete loss of traction. Applying brakes firmly can lock the wheels, causing further skidding or leading to a crash. Turning the handlebars sharply could also destabilize the bike further, making it more difficult to regain control. Therefore, the practice of releasing the throttle and steering into the skid is a fundamental skill for safely managing a motorcycle when faced with skidding conditions.

Practice more: Kansas Motorcycle Permit Practice Test →