When should you adjust your motorcycle’s mirrors?

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

When should you adjust your motorcycle’s mirrors?

1. When you are at an intersection. 
2. When you are riding in traffic. 
3. When you are riding at a low speed.
4. Before starting the motorcycle during your pre-ride inspection.

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. Before starting the motorcycle during your pre-ride inspection.

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

Explanation: Pre-Ride Inspection: Adjusting your Mirrors

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. 

Your motorcycle’s mirrors are an important tool to help you see the road around and behind you. 

Properly adjusted mirrors will give you the best view, so that you can better scan for hazards as you ride. 

Mirrors should be checked during your pre-ride inspection before you start the bike. 

Before your ride, take a moment to make sure your mirrors are clean and adjusted. It can be easy for the motorcycle’s mirrors to get out of adjustment when you are parking the bike or locking it up. 

Sit on the bike in your riding position and adjust each mirror so that you can see the road behind you. 

You may see the edge of your arm or shoulder in the mirror, but try to adjust them so you have the biggest view of what is behind you as you ride. 

Remember, while your mirrors are important, you should never rely on them alone. Be sure to perform head checks to check your blind spots and the road around you as part of your scanning routine and before you change lanes or turn. 

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.