When riding in a group, what does it mean when the lead rider extends their left arm with the palm facing up and swings it upwards?

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

When riding in a group, what does it mean when the lead rider extends their left arm with the palm facing up and swings it upwards?

1. Pass me.
2. Slow down.
3. Speed up.
4. Double file formation.

Find the answer to this question and an explanation below. 

Answer

This topic may show up on your motorcycle permit test. 

The answer is: C. Speed up.

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

Explanation: Motorcycle Group Riding Hand Signals

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 riding with a group, motorcycle group riding hand signals can be used to quickly communicate what the riders need to do. 

The lead rider is typically responsible for sending the hand signals to guide the rest of the group. 

When they extend their left arm with the palm facing up, and swing it upwards, that means that the group should speed up. 

They may be entering a portion of the road with a higher speed limit or traffic ahead may have subsided. 

Hand signals and clear communication helps ensure that the riding group sticks together, adjusts for potential hazards, and stays safe. 

Before embarking on the ride, the group should go over the plan, the rules, and some of the main hand signals that will be used to communicate during the ride. 

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.