Keeping your Motorcycle on Road - France Driving Test

When riding on curves

Slow down before entering the curve: Entering too fast reduces control and slow beforehand and maintain speed through the turn.

Best way to steer through a curve

Look through the curve and lean with the bike: Keep your eyes on the exit and lean in the direction of the turn for balance.

To maintain control in a curve

Use both brakes before entering, not during: Braking during a curve can cause skidding and slow before the turn.

Positioning your motorcycle on the road

Ride in the lane position that offers best visibility: Adjust your lane position to maximize sightlines and avoid blind spots.

To avoid obstacles on the road

Scan ahead and adjust position early: Anticipating road hazards helps avoid last-second maneuvers.

If there is debris or oil on the road

Reduce speed and avoid leaning: Keep the bike upright to maintain traction and avoid sliding.

When riding over slippery surfaces

Ride in a straight line without sudden movements: Maintain a steady speed, and avoid sharp turns or hard braking.

To cross a patch of sand or gravel

Keep the motorcycle straight and reduce speed: Avoid leaning and ride slowly and smoothly to maintain balance.

When passing another vehicle

Check mirrors, signal, and pass quickly but safely: Never pass in curves or at intersections and ensure it clear and legal.

To be seen better by other drivers

Use your lights and wear reflective gear: Headlights during the day and bright clothing increase visibility.

When riding at night

Reduce speed and use low-beam headlights: Nighttime visibility is lower and ride cautiously and avoid glare.

Lane position while approaching intersections

Choose the position that gives the best view: Positioning helps you see cross traffic and be seen.

To respond to a tailgating driver

Gradually slow down and allow them to pass: Dont speed up and create space and avoid confrontation.

In strong crosswinds

Keep a firm grip and lean slightly into the wind: Be ready to counter gusts, especially near large vehicles or open areas.

When encountering a pothole

Rise slightly off the seat and grip the handlebars: Rising slightly off the seat while firmly gripping the handlebars lets your knees and legs absorb the shock from bumps or uneven pavement

If you must swerve

Brake before swerving, not during: Swerving while braking can cause loss of control and separate braking from steering.

To cross a raised object or bump

Approach at a 90° angle and rise slightly: Reduces shock to the rider and bike and slow beforehand.

Importance of smooth throttle control

Prevents skidding and maintains stability: Jerky acceleration or deceleration can unbalance the motorcycle.

Proper reaction to sudden obstacles

Brake firmly and straighten before swerving: Needed, swerve only after reducing speed and regaining balance.

When riding over metal surfaces e.g., manhole covers

Ride straight and avoid braking: These surfaces are slippery and maintain balance and keep throttle steady.

Handling speed bumps

Slow down and rise slightly on footrests: Keeps the ride smooth and protects suspension from damage.

Lane position for group riding

Use staggered formation for better visibility: Maintain spacing and adjust formation based on road width and traffic.

Avoiding riding in blind spots

Stay where other drivers can see you in mirrors: Constantly adjust your lane position to stay visible.

When cornering downhill

Use both brakes and gear down beforehand: Engine braking and light braking control speed safely on descents.

To ride safely in hot weather

Stay hydrated and wear ventilated protective gear: Heat can cause fatigue and take breaks and protect skin.

Main cause of single-vehicle motorcycle crashes

Taking curves too fast or braking in a turn: Always reduce speed before curves and avoid sudden actions while leaning.