A motorcycle has a windshield. What should the rider still use to protect the eyes from wind and debris?
Correct answer: A securely fitted faceshield or goggles
A windshield is not a substitute for a faceshield or goggles. Ordinary glasses may leave the eyes exposed to wind and can blow off when the rider turns their head.
Source: PennDOT Motorcycle Operator Manual, PUB 147 (11-24), printed page 4 (physical PDF page 6) > Preparing to Ride > Wear the Right Gear > Eye and Face Protection ↗
Daylight is fading and little light is available. What should you do about a tinted visor or goggles?
Correct answer: Use clear eye protection rather than tinted protection
Tinted eye protection reduces the light reaching your eyes. Use suitable clear protection at night or in other low-light conditions.
Source: PennDOT Motorcycle Operator Manual, PUB 147 (11-24), printed page 4 (physical PDF page 6) > Preparing to Ride > Wear the Right Gear > Eye and Face Protection ↗
Why is brightly colored or reflective riding apparel recommended?
Correct answer: It helps other road users notice and recognize the rider
Bright colors and reflective material help other drivers detect the rider. Clothing improves visibility but does not replace safe lane positioning or other visibility measures.
Source: PennDOT Motorcycle Operator Manual, PUB 147 (11-24), printed page 20 (physical PDF page 22) > Ride Within Your Abilities > Increasing Conspicuity > Clothing ↗
Which footwear best supports safer motorcycle control and protection?
Correct answer: Sturdy ankle-covering boots with slip-resistant soles
Choose footwear that supports and covers the ankles, has durable slip-resistant soles and short heels, and keeps laces from catching on the motorcycle.
Source: PennDOT Motorcycle Operator Manual, PUB 147 (11-24), printed page 5 (physical PDF page 7) > Preparing to Ride > Wear the Right Gear > Clothing ↗
When should a rider check the motorcycle’s tires, lights, and controls?
Correct answer: Before every ride
A pre-ride check can reveal defects before the motorcycle enters traffic or reaches freeway speed.
Source: PennDOT Motorcycle Operator Manual, PUB 147 (11-24), printed page 7 (physical PDF page 9) > Preparing to Ride > Know Your Motorcycle > Check Your Motorcycle ↗
Which feature is a good sign that a motorcycle physically fits its rider?
Correct answer: The seated rider can reach the ground and operate the controls easily
The manual recommends a motorcycle that lets the seated rider reach the ground and operate the controls easily.
Source: PennDOT Motorcycle Operator Manual, PUB 147 (11-24), printed page 5 (physical PDF page 7) > Preparing to Ride > Know Your Motorcycle > The Right Motorcycle For You ↗
Before a ride, you release the throttle and it stays partly open. What should you do?
Correct answer: Have the sticking control corrected before riding
A throttle that fails to return freely can keep applying power unexpectedly.
Source: PennDOT Motorcycle Operator Manual PUB 147 (11-24), printed page 7 / physical PDF page 9 > Check Your Motorcycle > Clutch and Throttle ↗
How should you check that both brake controls activate the brake light?
Correct answer: Operate each brake control separately
Testing them separately reveals a switch failure that a combined check could conceal.
Source: PennDOT Motorcycle Operator Manual PUB 147 (11-24), printed page 7 / physical PDF page 9 > Check Your Motorcycle > Brake Light ↗
A motorcycle tire looks inflated. What else should you check before riding?
Correct answer: Measured pressure, wear, and tread condition
Appearance alone does not establish safe inflation or tire condition.
Source: PennDOT Motorcycle Operator Manual PUB 147 (11-24), printed page 7 / physical PDF page 9 > Check Your Motorcycle > Tires/Wheels ↗
You borrow a motorcycle with different controls. What should happen before entering traffic?
Correct answer: Locate and practice the controls while stationary
Knowing the switches and control response beforehand avoids searching while riding.
Source: PennDOT Motorcycle Operator Manual PUB 147 (11-24), printed page 6 / physical PDF page 8 > Get Familiar with the Motorcycle Controls (continues printed 7 / physical 9) ↗
A face shield is clear straight ahead but blocks your view to either side. Is it suitable eye protection for riding?
Correct answer: No, protection must also leave a clear side view
Protective equipment must not prevent you from seeing hazards at the sides.
Source: PennDOT Motorcycle Operator Manual PUB 147 (11-24), printed page 4 / physical PDF page 6 > Eye and Face Protection ↗
A helmet fits snugly, but its chin strap is unfastened. What should be done before riding?
Correct answer: Fasten the helmet securely
A snug fit alone may not keep a helmet on during a crash. Secure its retention system every ride.
Source: PennDOT PUB 147 (11-24), printed page 4 / physical PDF page 6 > Helmet Selection > Secure fastening ↗
You notice a fresh pool that may be oil or fuel beneath your parked motorcycle. What is the appropriate pre-ride response?
Correct answer: Investigate and correct the problem before entering traffic
The pre-ride inspection includes fluid levels and signs of leaks. Find a mechanical problem before traffic adds risk.
Source: PennDOT PUB 147 (11-24), printed page 7 / physical PDF page 9 > Check Your Motorcycle > Fluids ↗
Besides protecting hands in a fall, what practical riding benefit do suitable motorcycle gloves provide?
Correct answer: A more secure grip on the controls
Riding gloves support grip as well as hand protection. They do not compensate for faulty controls.
Source: PennDOT PUB 147 (11-24), printed page 5 / physical PDF page 7 > Clothing > Gloves ↗
Your mirrors need adjustment before a ride. When is the best time to set their position?
Correct answer: While stopped before starting out
Set and clean the mirrors before riding; adjusting them in motion diverts attention and control.
Source: PennDOT PUB 147 (11-24), printed page 7 / physical PDF page 9 > Check Your Motorcycle > Mirrors ↗
