Arizona Motorcycle: Practice test - Practice Test 7

Maximum straight-line braking is accomplished by fully applying both the front and rear brakes without locking either wheel. You should always use both brakes every time you slow or stop.

When approaching a potentially dangerous area, such as an intersection, you should cover the clutch lever and both brakes in order to reduce the amount of time you will need to react to any hazards.

To be effective, eye protection and face shields must be free of scratches; be resistant to penetration; give a clear view to either side; fasten securely; permit air to pass through; and permit enough room for eyeglasses or sunglasses to be worn underneath.

Sturdy boots or shoes that are high enough to support the ankles can provide the best protection for motorcyclists. Laced up boots are best, but high-top boots or heavy shoes are fine. If a motorcyclist wears shoes that have long laces, they should be sure to securely tuck the laces away before riding.

Instead of mechanical turn signals, operators may use hand signals to indicate turns or stops. If an operator's left arm is extended straight out to the left, it means the operator plans to turn left or change lanes to the left.

A properly chosen lane position should provide a number of benefits, including an increased ability to see others and to be seen. It should help you avoid wind blasts, other drivers' blind spots, and surface hazards. Your lane position should discourage other drivers from trying to share your lane and provide you with an escape route, should a hazard arise.

To apply the front brake, firmly and smoothly squeeze the brake lever with all four fingers, applying progressively more force.

An increased following distance is needed if your motorcycle will take longer than normal to stop. If the pavement is slippery, if you cannot see through the vehicle ahead of you, or if traffic is heavy and another driver may try to squeeze in front of you, open up to a minimum three-second following distance.

Oily drippings from cars and trucks collect in a strip in the center portion of a lane. This strip usually still provides enough traction for motorcyclists to operate safely, except when the road is wet. The strip is usually narrow enough that you can ride to its side and still be in the center portion of the lane.