Head checks on your motorcycle should be:

Use this motorcycle practice test question to prepare for the real written exam at the DMV or during your motorcycle safety course. 

Head checks on your motorcycle should be:

1. Only used when changing lanes. 
2. Used frequently as part of your normal scanning routine. 
3. A total of 5 seconds per side. 
4. Avoided. 

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. Used frequently as part of your normal scanning routine.

How’d you do? Learn more about this motorcycle topic below. 

Explanation: Head Checks and Scanning for Hazards

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. 

Just like a passenger car, motorcycles also have blind spots. These describe the areas to the sides of your bike that you cannot see in your direct field of vision or by using your mirrors. 

A “head check” is when you turn your head to get a better view of your blind spots. 

Head checks, or a quick turn of the head to look at traffic and conditions around you, should be used as part of your normal scanning routine as you ride. 

Head checks should also be used when you plan to change lanes, split lanes, turn, or make other maneuvers near other vehicles. 

A head check can help ensure that you don’t move into a position that can put you at a higher risk of a collision. 

Knowing what’s going on all around your motorcycle is important in order to be fully prepared to deal with the potential hazards and different situations you’ll encounter on your ride. 

Avoid starting your maneuver before you’ve completed your head check to make sure the way is clear. 

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.