Practice question

If the rear wheel of a motorcycle locks, what should the rider focus on?

  1. Releasing the throttle
  2. Using the front brake
  3. Head and eyes
  4. Shifting gears

Answer: C — Head and eyes

When the rear wheel of a motorcycle locks up, the rider should focus on their head and eyes. Maintaining proper head and eye positioning is crucial because it influences where the motorcycle will go. By looking where you want to steer, it helps you regain control and potentially avoid an accident. In situations where the rear wheel is locked, steering becomes critical; therefore, looking in the direction of travel can aid in stabilizing the motorcycle. This approach encourages the rider to keep their body relaxed and focused on controlling the braking and steering inputs effectively. While the other choices involve actions that might be taken during various riding situations, they do not address the immediate need to regain control after a rear wheel lock. For instance, releasing the throttle may not directly assist in reestablishing stability, and using the front brake inappropriately could worsen the condition. Shifting gears is usually not relevant in this scenario either, as it does not address the locking situation.

Practice more: Massachusetts Motorcycle Permit Practice Test →