If your motorcycle begins to wobble while riding, what should you do?

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

If your motorcycle begins to wobble while riding, what should you do?

1. Try to counter steer against the wobble. 
2. Quickly grab the brakes. 
3. Loosen your grip on the handlebards, open the throttle quickly, and lean back.
4. Grip the handlebars firmly, close the throttle gradually, and shift your weight forwards and down. 

Find the answer to this question and an explanation below. 

Answer

This topic may show up on your motorcycle permit test. 

The answer is: D. Grip the handlebars firmly, close the throttle gradually, and shift your weight forwards and down. 

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

Explanation: Motorcycle Wobble

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. 

A wobble describes the phenomenon when the front wheel and handlebars begin to shake from side to side. 

A motorcycle wobble can occur at any speed, and is often caused by poor load balance, improper tire pressure, or unsuitable or poorly mounted accessories for your particular bike.

Wobbles can also be caused by poorly adjusted steering, a bent rim, loose or worn bearings, or misaligned wheels. 

If you are riding your motorcycle and experience a wobble, it is recommended to:

• Keep a firm grip on the handlebars, but do not try to correct the wobble. 
• Gradually close the throttle to slow down. 
• Avoid using the brakes. 
• Move your weight as forward and low as possible to lower the center of gravity. 
• Pull off the road and stop when you’re able to. 

Trying to correct the wobble by force or using the brakes during a wobble can cause you to lose control. 

Additionally, trying to accelerate out of the wobble will typically just make you more unstable at a higher speed. 

Be sure that your motorcycle is in good mechanical condition and that any loads and accessories (fairings, windshields, etc.) are properly attached and secured.  

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.