Practice question

In an emergency situation, what is the best focus to control your motorcycle?

  1. Look at the obstacle you're trying to avoid
  2. Look at your controls
  3. Look where you want to go
  4. Look straight ahead

Answer: C — Look where you want to go

During an emergency situation on a motorcycle, the most effective focus is to look where you want to go. This principle is rooted in the concept of "target fixation," which means that when a rider focuses on an obstacle or an undesirable outcome, they are more likely to steer towards it due to a natural instinct to follow their line of sight. By consciously directing your gaze to the intended escape route, you enhance your ability to maneuver the motorcycle in that direction. This focus allows you to better coordinate your body movements and make the necessary adjustments to your steering, throttle, and brakes to navigate away from danger successfully. It is important to remember that controlling a motorcycle extends beyond physical manipulation of the controls; it also involves mental focus that aligns with positive outcomes. In contrast, looking at your controls or straight ahead can distract you from necessary adjustments and situational awareness, while fixating on an obstacle can lead to a collision instead of enabling a successful avoidance maneuver.

Practice more: NZ Motorcycle Learner License Practice Test →