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Use this motorcycle practice test question to prepare for the real written exam at the DMV or during your motorcycle safety course.
As weight transfers to the front of your motorcycle as you are braking, you can:
- Decrease front braking.
- Increase front braking.
- Increase rear braking.
- Use the throttle.
Find the answer to this question and an explanation below.
Answer
This topic may show up on your motorcycle permit test.
The answer is: B. Increase front braking.
How’d you do? Learn more about this motorcycle topic below.
Explanation: Using the Brakes
In order to pass your motorcycle permit exams and to become a safe rider, it’s important to know why a particular answer on the motorcycle written test is correct.
When you use the brakes on a motorcycle, the weight will begin to transfer towards the front.
Most motorcycles are equipped with two brake controls – a front brake lever and a rear brake pedal. You should always use both brakes when you need to slow down or stop.
The front brake provides the majority of your braking power, but needs to be engaged properly in order for you to stop and slow safely and effectively.
Whenever you need to apply the brakes, you should squeeze the lever and depress the pedal smoothly and firmly. Avoid any abrupt pressure.
As you begin to apply the brakes, the weight will begin to transfer forward, which will give you more traction on the front wheel.
When this happens, you can begin to apply more pressure to the front brake.
The rear wheel will lose traction as you brake, and the rear brake pedal should be applied with light-to-lighter pressure.
Both the front lever and rear pedal should be engaged simultaneous and smoothly to avoid skidding or losing control.
Quick stops in a straight line are achieved by fully engaging both brakes without locking up either wheel.
You can find more information about this topic in the motorcycle rider’s handbook.
Check out more motorcycle permit test questions and answers here.
Find in-depth articles for new riders in our section dedicated to learning how to ride a motorcycle.
Plus, check out an overview of the requirements to get a motorcycle endorsement in each state.