Motorbike Theory Test

This motorbike theory test lasts 57 minutes. You must answer 50 questions. To pass the test, you must score 43 out of 50. You may check your answer after each question by clicking 'check answer'. Alternatively, you can wait until the end of the test to review your answers and final score. Best of luck!

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A Change gear without braking
B Use both brakes
C Use the back brake only
D Use the front brake only
Correct Answer: B Use both brakes
Explanation: Motorcyclists need to take extra care when stopping on wet road surfaces. Plan well ahead so that you're able to brake in good time. For maximum stability, you should use both brakes, and brake when your motorcycle is upright and travelling in a straight line.
A When a pillion passenger is being carried
B When they ride a large touring machine
C When they're riding on the road for the first time
D When visibility is 100 metres (328 feet) or less
Correct Answer: D When visibility is 100 metres (328 feet) or less
Explanation: If your motorcycle is fitted with high-intensity rear fog lights, you must only use them when visibility is seriously reduced. That's when you can see no further than 100 metres (328 feet). This rule about high-intensity rear fog lights applies to all motor vehicles.
A Anticipate the actions of others
B Keep positioned close to the kerb
C Remain well below the speed limit
D Stay just above the speed limit
Correct Answer: A Anticipate the actions of others
Explanation: Always ride defensively. This means looking and planning ahead, as well as anticipating the actions of other road users.
A Brake sharply to see if the road is slippery
B Continue riding at the same speed
C Ride in as low a gear as possible
D Ride slowly in as high a gear as possible
Correct Answer: D Ride slowly in as high a gear as possible
Explanation: Frozen rain on the road is called black ice. It can be hard to see, but it can be indicated by a lack of road noise and your steering may also feel very light. Reduce your speed and avoid harsh braking or steering. Riding in as high a gear as possible can help reduce the risk of wheelspin.
A 1 mm
B 1.6 mm
C 2.5 mm
D 4 mm
Correct Answer: A 1 mm
Explanation: The law says that the entire original tread must be visible, with a depth of at least 1 mm in a continuous band across at least three-quarters of the breadth of the tread. However, your tyres are your only contact with the road, so it's recommended that you replace them before they get to this level.
A It will increase petrol consumption
B It will increase wear on the gearbox
C It will reduce the grip of the tyres
D It will reduce your control of the motorcycle
Correct Answer: D It will reduce your control of the motorcycle
Explanation: Riding with the clutch lever pulled in is known as coasting. If you coast, you lose the benefits of engine braking and you'll have reduced control of your motorcycle.
A The engine could misfire
B The engine could produce more emissions
C The rear wheel could lock
D The tyres could wear more quickly
Correct Answer: C The rear wheel could lock
Explanation: Check your drive chain regularly; adjust and lubricate it if necessary. It needs to be adjusted until the 'free play' is as it says in the vehicle handbook. If the chain is too loose, it can jump off its sprocket and lock your rear wheel while you're riding.
A Quickly, in a high gear
B Quickly, in a low gear
C Slowly, in a high gear
D Slowly, in a low gear
Correct Answer: D Slowly, in a low gear
Explanation: If you have to ride through a flood, ride slowly in a low gear. Keep the engine running fast enough to keep water out of the exhaust. You may need to slip the clutch to do this.
A The condition of the tyres
B The drive-chain adjustment
C The street lighting
D The time of day
Correct Answer: A The condition of the tyres
Explanation: Tyres are a major factor in the handling, stability and stopping distance of a motorcycle. Make sure they're in a safe and legal condition. The weather and road surface also play a part. Always anticipate well ahead and take account of the conditions when you're braking.
A Five years
B One year
C Seven years
D Three years
Correct Answer: D Three years
Explanation: Any motorcycle you ride must be in good condition and roadworthy. If it's over three years old, it must have a valid MOT test certificate (unless it was made before 1960, in which case it will be exempt from the MOT test).
A Keep the cable dry
B Keep the cable oiled
C Keep the cable slack
D Keep the cable tight
Correct Answer: B Keep the cable oiled
Explanation: Keeping the clutch cable oiled will help it to move smoothly through its outer casing. This will extend the life of the cable and help prevent the clutch's operation from becoming stiff.
A A serious loss of power
B Increased tyre wear
C Reduced braking performance
D Reduced ground clearance
Correct Answer: B Increased tyre wear
Explanation: If a motorcycle's wheels are incorrectly aligned, tyres may wear unevenly and the motorcycle can become unstable, especially when cornering.
A By a highly polished road surface
B By a pitted road surface
C By a rainbow-coloured pattern on the road surface
D By a series of skid marks on the road surface
Correct Answer: C By a rainbow-coloured pattern on the road surface
Explanation: This rainbow-coloured pattern can be seen much more easily on a wet road. You should avoid riding over spilt fuel if possible. If you have to go over it, do so with extreme caution, knowing the surface will be slippery.
A Uneven loads can make the battery overcharge
B Uneven loads can make the engine overheat
C Uneven loads can make the motorcycle uncomfortable
D Uneven loads can make the motorcycle unstable
Correct Answer: D Uneven loads can make the motorcycle unstable
Explanation: Panniers or saddlebags should be loaded so that you carry about the same weight in each bag. Uneven loading could make the motorcycle unstable, especially when cornering.
A So you can keep clear of following traffic
B So you can keep close to the kerb
C So you can make oncoming vehicles stop
D So you can see approaching traffic
Correct Answer: D So you can see approaching traffic
Explanation: When turning right at this crossroads, you should keep the oncoming car to your right. This will give you a clear view of the road ahead and any oncoming traffic.
A Ask someone to ride with you for the first time
B Just ride, as all the controls and switches are the same
C Leave your gloves behind, so the switches can be operated more easily
D Make sure you know where all the controls and switches are
Correct Answer: D Make sure you know where all the controls and switches are
Explanation: While control layouts are generally similar, different makes and models have subtle differences in the position and operation of the switches. Before you ride any motorcycle, make sure you're familiar with the layout of all the controls and switches.
A Drivers at junctions ahead will be able to see you approaching
B Faster traffic will be able to overtake you easily
C Other vehicles will be able to pass easily on your left
D You'll keep within half a metre (1 foot 8 inches) of the kerb
Correct Answer: A Drivers at junctions ahead will be able to see you approaching
Explanation: Aim to ride in the middle of your lane. Avoid riding in the gutter or in the centre of the road, where you might
  • obstruct overtaking traffic
  • put yourself in danger from oncoming traffic
  • encourage other traffic to overtake you on the left

A A large bulge in the sidewall
B A stone wedged in the tread
C Tread less than 1.6 mm deep
D Tread less than 2 mm deep
Correct Answer: A A large bulge in the sidewall
Explanation: When checking tyres, make sure there are no bulges or cuts in the sidewalls. Keeping your tyres correctly inflated and in good condition is a vital part of maintaining your motorcycle.
A The time gap when following another vehicle in good conditions
B The time recommended when using the choke
C The time you should allow to restart a stalled engine
D The time you should keep your foot down at a junction
Correct Answer: A The time gap when following another vehicle in good conditions
Explanation: It's very important that you always leave a safe gap between your motorcycle and any vehicle you're following. In good conditions, you need to leave at least one metre for every mile per hour of your speed, or a two-second time interval.
A Headlight deflectors
B Tinted red indicator lenses
C Tinted yellow brake lights
D Twin headlights
Correct Answer: A Headlight deflectors
Explanation: When abroad and riding on the right, deflectors are usually required to prevent your headlights from dazzling approaching drivers.
A A braking fault
B A locked rear wheel
C Headlight misalignment
D Wobbly wheels
Correct Answer: B A locked rear wheel
Explanation: A motorcycle chain will stretch as it wears. It may need frequent checking and adjustment to keep the tension correct. In extreme cases, a loose chain can jump off the sprocket and become wedged in the rear wheel. This could cause serious loss of control and result in a crash.
A When carrying a pillion passenger
B When riding on a wet road
C When riding on twisty roads
D When travelling on an uneven surface
Correct Answer: A When carrying a pillion passenger
Explanation: Sometimes, manufacturers advise you to increase your tyre pressures for high-speed riding and when carrying extra weight, such as a pillion passenger. This information can be found in the vehicle handbook.
A Chain wear
B Engine overheating
C Low oil pressure
D Oil leaks
Correct Answer: D Oil leaks
Explanation: Too much oil in the engine will create excess crankcase pressure. This could damage engine seals and cause oil leaks. Any excess oil should be drained off.
A At a clear pelican crossing when the amber light is flashing
B At a junction with double broken white lines
C At an empty zebra crossing
D When signalled to do so by a police officer
Correct Answer: D When signalled to do so by a police officer
Explanation: Don't stop or hold up traffic unnecessarily. However, there are occasions when you must stop by law. These include
  • when signalled to do so by a school crossing patrol, police officer or traffic officer
  • at a red traffic light
  • at a junction with a 'stop' sign

A Give way to pedestrians already on the crossing
B Give way to pedestrians waiting to cross
C Stop and wait for the green light
D Stop and wait for the red light
Correct Answer: A Give way to pedestrians already on the crossing
Explanation: Pelican crossings are signal-controlled crossings operated by pedestrians. Push-button controls change the signals. Pelican crossings have no red-and-amber stage before green; instead, they have a flashing amber light. This means you must give way to pedestrians who are already on the crossing. If the crossing is clear, however, you can continue.
A Four seconds
B One second
C Three seconds
D Two seconds
Correct Answer: A Four seconds
Explanation: Water will reduce your tyres' grip on the road. The safe separation gap of at least two seconds in dry conditions should be doubled, to at least four seconds, in wet weather.
A Ambulance
B Doctor's car
C Fire engine
D Road gritter
Correct Answer: B Doctor's car
Explanation: A green flashing beacon on a vehicle means the driver or passenger is a doctor on an emergency call. Give way to them if it's safe to do so. Be aware that the vehicle may be travelling quickly or may stop in a hurry.
A By double or single yellow lines
B By hazard warning lines
C By pedestrian islands
D By street lighting
Correct Answer: D By street lighting
Explanation: There's a 30 mph speed limit where there are street lights unless signs show another limit.
A Don't indicate at any time
B Indicate left before leaving the roundabout
C Indicate left when approaching the roundabout
D Indicate right when approaching the roundabout
Correct Answer: B Indicate left before leaving the roundabout
Explanation: When going straight ahead at a roundabout, don't signal as you approach it. Indicate left just after passing the exit before the one you wish to take.
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: This sign is used to enable pedestrians to walk free from traffic. It's often found in shopping areas.
A No motor vehicles
B No overtaking
C Two-way traffic
D You have priority
Correct Answer: B No overtaking
Explanation: Road signs that prohibit overtaking are placed in locations where passing the vehicle in front is dangerous. If you see this sign, don't attempt to overtake. The sign is there for a reason; you must obey it.
A Bus station on the right
B Contraflow bus lane
C Give way to buses
D With-flow bus lane
Correct Answer: B Contraflow bus lane
Explanation: There will also be markings on the road surface to indicate the bus lane. You mustn't use this lane for parking or overtaking.
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Triangular signs give you a warning of hazards ahead. They're there to give you time to prepare for the hazard; for example, by adjusting your speed.
A No trams ahead
B Oncoming trams
C Trams crossing ahead
D Trams only
Correct Answer: C Trams crossing ahead
Explanation: This sign tells you to beware of trams. If you don't usually drive in a town where there are trams, remember to look out for them at junctions and look for tram rails, signs and signals.
A Bridge over the road
B Road ahead ends
C Uneven road surface
D Water across the road
Correct Answer: D Water across the road
Explanation: This sign is found where a shallow stream crosses the road. Heavy rainfall could increase the flow of water. If the water looks too deep or the stream has spread over a large distance, stop and find another route.
A Nobody
B Traffic going straight on
C Traffic turning left
D Traffic turning right
Correct Answer: A Nobody
Explanation: When traffic lights are out of order, you should treat the junction as an unmarked crossroads. Be cautious, as you may need to give way or stop. Look for traffic attempting to cross the junction, unaware that it doesn't have priority.
A To pass a car signalling to turn left ahead
B To pass a road maintenance vehicle travelling at 10 mph or less
C To pass a vehicle that's towing a trailer
D To pass traffic that's queuing back at a junction
Correct Answer: B To pass a road maintenance vehicle travelling at 10 mph or less
Explanation: You may cross the solid white line to pass a stationary vehicle or to pass a pedal cycle, horse or road maintenance vehicle if it's travelling at 10 mph or less. You may also cross the solid white line to enter a side road or access a property.
A At a level crossing
B At a pedestrian crossing
C On a motorway slip road
D On a single-track road
Correct Answer: C On a motorway slip road
Explanation: When driving on a motorway or slip road, you mustn't enter an area marked with chevrons and bordered by a solid white line for any reason, except in an emergency.
A Flash your lights in case they haven't noticed you
B Rev your engine to make them hurry
C Wait patiently because they'll probably take longer to cross
D Wave them to cross as quickly as they can
Correct Answer: C Wait patiently because they'll probably take longer to cross
Explanation: If the lights turn to green, wait for any pedestrians to clear the crossing. Allow them to finish crossing the road in their own time, and don't try to hurry them by revving your engine.
Correct Answer: C Toucan
Explanation: A toucan crossing is designed to allow pedestrians and cyclists to cross at the same time. Look out for cyclists approaching the crossing at speed.
A Make overtaking easier
B Make parking easier
C Slow traffic down
D Stop road rage
Correct Answer: C Slow traffic down
Explanation: Traffic-calming measures make the roads safer for vulnerable road users, such as cyclists, pedestrians and children. These can be designed as chicanes, road humps or other obstacles that encourage drivers and riders to slow down.
A It marks an area to be used by overtaking motorcyclists
B It separates the two sides of the dual carriageway
C It separates traffic flowing in opposite directions
D It's a temporary marking to warn of the roadworks
Correct Answer: C It separates traffic flowing in opposite directions
Explanation: Areas of 'hatched markings' such as these separate traffic streams that could be a danger to each other. They're often seen on bends or where the road becomes narrow. If the area is bordered by a solid white line, you mustn't enter it except in an emergency.
A Halfway up the battery
B Just above the cell plates
C Just below the cell plates
D The top of the battery
Correct Answer: B Just above the cell plates
Explanation: Top up the battery with distilled water and make sure each cell plate is covered.
A To enable parents to pick up or drop off children safely
B To enable teachers to have clear access to the school
C To ensure children have a clear view from the crossing area
D To ensure delivery vehicles have easy access to the school
Correct Answer: C To ensure children have a clear view from the crossing area
Explanation: These markings are found on the road outside schools. Don't stop or park on them, even to set down or pick up children. The markings are there to ensure that drivers, riders, children and other pedestrians have a clear view of the road in all directions.
A Carry out an emergency stop
B Reverse back to the main road
C Stop at a passing place
D Switch on your hazard warning lights
Correct Answer: C Stop at a passing place
Explanation: Take care when using single-track roads. It can be difficult to see around bends, because of hedges or fences, so expect to meet oncoming vehicles. Drive carefully and be ready to pull into or stop opposite a passing place, where you can pass each other safely.
A Motorway contraflow system ahead
B Traffic approaching you has priority
C Two-way traffic crosses a one-way road
D Two-way traffic straight ahead
Correct Answer: D Two-way traffic straight ahead
Explanation: This sign may be at the end of a dual carriageway or a one-way street. It's there to warn you of oncoming traffic.
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: This sign is found at the entrance to a road that can only be used for access.
Correct Answer: C 20 minutes
Explanation: Check the casualty for shock and, if possible, try to cool the burn for at least 20 minutes. Use a clean, cool, non-toxic liquid, preferably water.
A 36 metres (118 feet)
B 53 metres (175 feet)
C 75 metres (245 feet)
D 96 metres (315 feet)
Correct Answer: B 53 metres (175 feet)
Explanation: Even in good conditions, it will usually take you further than you think to stop. Don't just learn the figures; make sure you understand how far the distance is.
A Choose an appropriate lane in good time
B Follow other motorists closely to avoid long queues
C Increase speed to pass through quickly
D Switch lanes at any time to make progress
Correct Answer: A Choose an appropriate lane in good time
Explanation: In a contraflow system, you'll be travelling close to oncoming traffic and sometimes in narrow lanes. You should get into the correct lane in good time, obey any temporary speed-limit signs and keep a safe separation distance from the vehicle ahead.