What is usually the cause of a motorcycle wobble?

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

What is usually the cause of a motorcycle wobble?

1. Incorrect tire pressure or improper loading. 
2. Low fuel. 
3. Faulty brakes. 
4. Broken drive chain. 

Find the answer to this question and an explanation below. 

Answer

This topic may show up on your motorcycle permit test. 

The answer is: A. Incorrect tire pressure or improper loading. 

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

Explanation: Motorcycle Wobbles

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 motorcycle wobble describes a situation in which the front wheel and handlebars begin to suddenly shake from side to side. 

A wobble can occur at any speed, and can be extremely dangerous.

Usually, the cause of the wobble can be traced to:

• Incorrect tire pressure. 
• Improper load balance. 
• Incorrectly installed fairings or windshields. 

During your pre-ride inspection, you should be checking things like tire pressure, load balance, and that any accessories are securely fastened and installed correctly. 

If you are carrying a load, be sure that the weight is lower and as far forward as possible. Additionally, make sure that the suspension is set correctly for the weight you are riding with. 

Other things that may cause a wobble include misaligned steering, bent front wheel, and loose bearings. 

If you do find yourself in a wobble, you should not attempt to accelerate out of it. This will only make the wobble worse at a higher speed. To handle a wobble:

• Keep a firm grip on the handlebars, but avoid fighting the wobble or trying to force correct the steering. 
• Close the throttle gradually to slow down. 
• Avoid using the brakes. 
• Move your weight forward and low. 

Once you are back under control, pull off the road to identify and fix the source of the wobble. 

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.