Practice question

What can occur if you make a sudden direction or speed change on a slippery surface?

  1. Your motorcycle will speed up
  2. Both wheels could skid, causing loss of control
  3. The engine may stall
  4. Braking will become more effective

Answer: B — Both wheels could skid, causing loss of control

Making a sudden direction or speed change on a slippery surface can lead to both wheels skidding, which significantly increases the risk of losing control of the motorcycle. Slippery surfaces, such as wet or icy roads, reduce the grip between the tires and the ground. When a rider abruptly alters the direction or acceleration, the tires may lose their traction and slide rather than maintain a firm grip. This can result in a loss of steering control and could lead to a crash or fall. In contrast, speeding up or improving braking effectiveness is unlikely, as the reduced traction makes acceleration and deceleration less effective. The motorcycle's engine stalling is also not a typical consequence of sudden directional changes on slippery surfaces. Understanding the dynamics of motorcycle handling on various surfaces is crucial for safe riding.

Practice more: NZ Motorcycle Learner License Practice Test →