Which footwear arrangement is better suited to riding a motorcycle?
Correct answer: Over-the-ankle support with low heels and tucked-in laces.
Supportive footwear should cover the ankles. Low heels reduce catching on rough surfaces, and tucked-in laces help keep them away from motorcycle parts.
Source: Colorado Motorcycle Operator's Handbook, DR 2336 (03/27/18), physical PDF page 6 (printed 4); Clothing. ↗
While stationary, you test each conventional brake individually. What result are you looking for?
Correct answer: Each brake feels firm and holds the motorcycle in place.
The handbook directs riders to test the front and rear brakes one at a time. Each should feel firm and hold the motorcycle when fully applied.
Source: Colorado Motorcycle Operator's Handbook, DR 2336 (03/27/18), physical PDF page 7 (printed 5); Check the Motorcycle. ↗
A bend is approaching on a two-wheel motorcycle. When is the preferred time to make the main reduction to a suitable entry speed?
Correct answer: Before entering the curve and leaning into it.
Set a suitable speed before the curve, then look through it and use smooth controls. Entering too fast leaves less room and traction for necessary adjustments.
Source: Colorado Motorcycle Operator's Handbook, DR 2336 (03/27/18), physical PDF page 8 (printed 6); Turning — Slow, Look, Press, Roll. ↗
On a conventional two-wheel motorcycle with separate front and rear brakes, which routine develops useful stopping habits?
Correct answer: Use both brakes with smooth, controlled pressure.
Using both brakes in routine stops develops the habit needed for effective braking. Apply them smoothly; do not grab a control or assume all braking systems work alike.
Source: Colorado Motorcycle Operator's Handbook, DR 2336 (03/27/18), physical PDF page 8 (printed 6); Braking. ↗
After completing a turn, what should you check about the motorcycle’s turn signal?
Correct answer: Make sure it has been canceled.
A signal left on can tell another road user that you intend to turn again. Check that it is canceled after completing the maneuver, including on a motorcycle whose cancellation behavior is unfamiliar.
Source: Colorado Motorcycle Operator's Handbook, DR 2336 (03/27/18), physical PDF page 9 (printed 7); Signals. ↗
Which lane-position strategy is appropriate for a two-wheel rider as traffic and pavement conditions change?
Correct answer: Choose the position that improves space, visibility and traction.
No single lane position is best in all situations. Adjust within your lane to be seen, see hazards and maintain a useful buffer on a suitable surface.
Source: Colorado Motorcycle Operator's Handbook, DR 2336 (03/27/18), physical PDF page 9 (printed 7); Lane Positions. ↗
You stop behind a car at a traffic signal. Why leave space instead of pulling tightly against its bumper?
Correct answer: The space can provide room to maneuver if an escape is needed.
A cushion ahead can give you a way out if a vehicle approaches from behind without slowing. Keep observing traffic and avoid boxing yourself in.
Source: Colorado Motorcycle Operator's Handbook, DR 2336 (03/27/18), physical PDF page 10 (printed 8); Following Another Vehicle. ↗
A car is preparing to merge into the space beside your motorcycle. What is the safer planning response?
Correct answer: Create room with a safe lane change or suitable speed adjustment.
Do not depend on the merging driver seeing you. Move to another lane if safe, or adjust speed to create space without putting yourself into another conflict.
Source: Colorado Motorcycle Operator's Handbook, DR 2336 (03/27/18), physical PDF page 11 (printed 9); Merging Cars. ↗
You need to slow on a wet road while riding a conventional two-wheel motorcycle. How should you use the controls?
Correct answer: Apply the brakes gradually and keep steering and throttle changes smooth.
Reduced traction calls for smooth, gradual actions. The front brake can still be useful; abruptly applying either brake or changing direction can cause a skid. Follow the instructions for the motorcycle’s braking system.
Source: Colorado Motorcycle Operator's Handbook, DR 2336 (03/27/18), physical PDF page 12 (printed 10); Slippery Surfaces — Use Both Brakes. ↗
Your motorcycle weaves slightly while crossing a grooved surface or bridge grating. What is the recommended response?
Correct answer: Keep a relaxed, firm grip and follow a steady path.
A slight wandering sensation on grooves or gratings is generally not a reason to make abrupt corrections. Maintain control with a steady course rather than fighting the movement or zigzagging.
Source: Colorado Motorcycle Operator's Handbook, DR 2336 (03/27/18), physical PDF page 12 (printed 10); Grooves and Gratings. ↗
An escape path beside an obstacle is clear and you must swerve around it on a two-wheel motorcycle. How should braking be coordinated with the swerve?
Correct answer: Brake before the swerve or after recovering, not during the lean.
Swerving and braking compete for available traction. When a swerve is necessary and a safe path exists, separate braking from the maneuver rather than combining a hard brake application with a sudden direction change.
Source: Colorado Motorcycle Operator's Handbook, DR 2336 (03/27/18), physical PDF page 13 (printed 11); Swerving or Turning Quickly. ↗
A flying insect strikes your face shield and interferes with your view. What is the safer response?
Correct answer: Keep control of the motorcycle and pull off safely to clear it.
Flying objects can distract or startle a rider. Keep your hands on the controls and eyes on the road as much as possible; if vision is impaired, leave traffic safely to address the problem.
Source: Colorado Motorcycle Operator's Handbook, DR 2336 (03/27/18), physical PDF page 15 (printed 13); Flying Objects. ↗
During a normal turn on a two-wheel motorcycle, what should an instructed passenger do?
Correct answer: Lean with the rider and motorcycle rather than against them.
A passenger should follow the rider’s lean and avoid sudden movements that upset handling. Brief the passenger before riding rather than trying to explain body position in a curve.
Source: Colorado Motorcycle Operator's Handbook, DR 2336 (03/27/18), physical PDF page 16 (printed 14); Instructing Passengers. ↗
You are using two saddlebags for a trip. Which loading practice is appropriate?
Correct answer: Balance the weight and secure it, checking attachments during the trip.
Distribute cargo evenly and fasten it so it cannot move into wheels or other parts. Periodic checks help detect a load or attachment that has shifted or loosened.
Source: Colorado Motorcycle Operator's Handbook, DR 2336 (03/27/18), physical PDF page 16 (printed 14); Carrying Loads. ↗
A traffic signal separates your motorcycle group. What advance plan helps prevent riders from taking risks to catch up?
Correct answer: Agree on the route and regrouping plan before departure.
A known route and plan reduce pressure to rush when a group is separated. Groups should accommodate less-experienced riders rather than making them exceed their skill or violate traffic rules.
Source: Colorado Motorcycle Operator's Handbook, DR 2336 (03/27/18), physical PDF page 17 (printed 15); Group Riding — Keep the Group Together. ↗
