Motorcycle Theory Test 3

You have 57 minutes to answer 50 multiple choice motorcycle theory test questions. You need to score at least 86% 43 out of 50 to pass the test. Answers may be checked after each question by clicking the 'check answer' button or you can wait until the end of the test to review your final score. Best of luck!

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Motorcycle Theory Test Practice

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A When you're riding at night
B When you're riding in fog
C When you're riding up a hill
D When you're riding with a passenger
Correct Answer: D When you're riding with a passenger
Explanation: When you're carrying a passenger on a motorcycle, the overall weight will be much more than when you're riding alone. This additional weight will make it harder for you to stop quickly in an emergency, so you'll need to increase the distance between your motorcycle and the vehicle in front.
A Acceleration lane
B Crawler lane
C Overtaking lane
D Tram lane
Correct Answer: D Tram lane
Explanation: Always plan ahead and be aware of lanes and areas designated for specific road users only. The restrictions are sometimes in force only at certain times of day, and signs will show when they apply. In some towns, motorcycles are permitted to use bus lanes - check the signs carefully.
A Ride normally
B Slow down
C Speed up
D Stop suddenly
Correct Answer: B Slow down
Explanation: The handling of your motorcycle will be greatly affected by the road surface. Look well ahead and be especially alert if the road looks uneven or has loose chippings. Slow down in good time, as braking harshly in these conditions will cause you to skid. For the same reason, avoid making sudden changes of direction.
A It will improve your balance
B It will make your steering lighter
C You'll upset your balance
D You'll use less fuel
Correct Answer: C You'll upset your balance
Explanation: When riding, look ahead and around you. Don't look down at the front wheel, as this can severely upset your balance.
A Your side stand
B Your steering damper
C Your suspension preload
D Your wheel alignment
Correct Answer: D Your wheel alignment
Explanation: After refitting the rear wheel or adjusting the drive chain, you should check your wheel alignment. Incorrect alignment will result in excessive tyre wear and poor roadholding.
A It will allow you to brake later for hazards
B It will allow you to corner more quickly
C It will improve your fuel consumption
D It will require a different riding technique
Correct Answer: D It will require a different riding technique
Explanation: You'll need to adapt your riding technique when riding a motorcycle fitted with a sidecar. The extra weight will affect the handling and may increase your overall stopping distance.
A To prevent the motorcycle being stolen
B To reduce speed in an emergency
C To stop the engine in an emergency
D To stop the engine normally
Correct Answer: C To stop the engine in an emergency
Explanation: If you're involved in a collision, using the engine cut-out switch will help to reduce the risk of fire. When stopping the engine normally, use the ignition switch.
A Give a left signal when it's safe for vehicles to overtake you
B Keep well out to stop vehicles overtaking dangerously
C Pull in when you can to let faster vehicles behind you overtake
D Wave vehicles behind you to pass if you think they can overtake
Correct Answer: C Pull in when you can to let faster vehicles behind you overtake
Explanation: Try not to hold up a queue of traffic. This might lead to other road users becoming impatient and attempting dangerous manoeuvres. If you're riding a slow-moving scooter or small motorcycle and a queue of traffic has built up behind you, look for a safe place to pull in so they can pass safely.
A To save wear and tear on the battery
B To save wear and tear on the ignition
C To stop the engine for a short time
D To stop the engine in an emergency
Correct Answer: D To stop the engine in an emergency
Explanation: Only use the engine cut-out switch in an emergency. When stopping the engine normally, use the ignition switch. This will remind you to take your keys with you when parking. It could also prevent starting problems if you forget you've left the cut-out switch in the 'off' position.
A Pedestrians will be crossing here
B The steel rails can be slippery
C Tram lines are always 'live'
D Trams will be stopping here
Correct Answer: B The steel rails can be slippery
Explanation: The smooth steel surface can be slippery and dangerous for motorcyclists, especially when it's wet. Try to cross tram lines at right angles.
A A polished road surface
B A soft, uneven road surface
C Fuel spilt on the road
D Water on the road
Correct Answer: C Fuel spilt on the road
Explanation: If fuel, especially diesel, is spilt on the road, it will make the surface very slippery. In wet weather, it can be seen as a rainbow-coloured pattern on the road.
A They mustn't carry a pillion passenger
B They mustn't carry panniers on their motorcycle
C They mustn't ride faster than 30 mph
D They mustn't use the right-hand lane on dual carriageways
Correct Answer: A They mustn't carry a pillion passenger
Explanation: Learner motorcyclists aren't allowed to
  • tow a trailer
  • carry a pillion passenger
  • use the motorway.
In addition, they must display red L plates (D plates in Wales) to the front and rear of the motorcycle.
A Apply both brakes smoothly
B Apply either of the brakes gently
C Apply only the front brake
D Apply only the rear brake
Correct Answer: A Apply both brakes smoothly
Explanation: In normal riding, you should always use both brakes. Braking when the motorcycle is upright and travelling in a straight line helps you to keep control. If your motorcycle has linked brakes, refer to the vehicle handbook.
A It will be flooded
B It will be rough
C It will be slippery
D It will be sticky
Correct Answer: C It will be slippery
Explanation: During a long spell of hot, dry weather, the road surface will become coated with rubber and dust. When it rains after this, the road surface will be unusually slippery. Take extra care, particularly at junctions, bends and roundabouts, and allow double the usual stopping distance.
A Getting cheap insurance
B Having faster reactions than older riders
C Overestimating their own ability
D Wearing newer gear than experienced riders
Correct Answer: C Overestimating their own ability
Explanation: Young and inexperienced motorcyclists often have more confidence than ability. It takes time to gain experience and become a good rider. Make sure you have the right attitude and put safety first.
A Bus drivers
B Lorry drivers
C Taxi drivers
D Tram drivers
Correct Answer: D Tram drivers
Explanation: These signs apply only to tram drivers, but you should know their meaning so that you're aware of the priorities and are able to anticipate the actions of the driver.
A On a diversion sign
B On a large goods vehicle
C On a motorway sign
D On a railway bridge
Correct Answer: B On a large goods vehicle
Explanation: These markers must be fitted to vehicles over 13 metres long, large goods vehicles, and rubbish skips placed in the road. They're reflective to make them easier to see in the dark.
Correct Answer: B Buses
Explanation: A double-deck bus or high-sided lorry will have to take a position in the centre of the road to clear the bridge. There's normally a sign to show this. Look well ahead, past the bridge and be ready to stop and give way to large oncoming vehicles.
A They won't be able to obtain car insurance
B They won't signal at junctions
C They'll need glasses to read road signs
D They'll take longer to react to hazards
Correct Answer: D They'll take longer to react to hazards
Explanation: Be tolerant of older drivers. They may take longer to react to a hazard and they may be hesitant in some situations - for example, at a junction.
A Any vehicle
B Emergency vehicles only
C Large vehicles only
D Slow vehicles only
Correct Answer: A Any vehicle
Explanation: On a motorway, all traffic should use the left-hand lane unless overtaking. When overtaking a number of slower vehicles, move back to the left-hand lane when you're safely past. Check your mirrors frequently and don't stay in the middle or right-hand lane if the left-hand lane is free.
A Between each pair of lanes
B Between the acceleration lane and the carriageway
C Between the central reservation and the carriageway
D Between the hard shoulder and the carriageway
Correct Answer: C Between the central reservation and the carriageway
Explanation: On motorways, reflective studs of various colours are fixed in the road between the lanes. These help you to identify which lane you're in when it's dark or in poor visibility. Amber-coloured studs are found on the right-hand edge of the main carriageway, next to the central reservation.
Correct Answer: D White
Explanation: White studs are found between the lanes on motorways. They reflect back the light from your headlights. This is especially useful in bad weather, when visibility is restricted.
A Follow another vehicle as it overtakes the tractor
B Sound your horn to make the tractor pull over
C Speed past, flashing your lights at oncoming traffic
D Stay behind the tractor if you're in any doubt
Correct Answer: D Stay behind the tractor if you're in any doubt
Explanation: Following a tractor can be frustrating, but never overtake if you're unsure whether it's safe. Ask yourself: 'Can I see far enough down the road to ensure that I can complete the manoeuvre safely?' It's better to be delayed for a minute or two than to take a chance that may cause a collision.
A Continue in that lane
B Force your way across
C Stop until the area has cleared
D Use clear arm signals to cut across
Correct Answer: A Continue in that lane
Explanation: There are times when road markings are obscured by queuing traffic, or you're unsure which lane to use. If, at the last moment, you find you're in the wrong lane, don't cut across or bully other drivers to let you in. Follow the lane you're in and find somewhere safe to turn around and rejoin your route.
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: Road signs in the shape of a circle give orders. Those with a red circle are mostly prohibitive. The 'stop' sign is octagonal to give it greater prominence. Signs giving orders must always be obeyed.
A Cattle grid ahead
B Gated road ahead
C Level crossing with gate or barrier
D Level crossing without gate or barrier
Correct Answer: C Level crossing with gate or barrier
Explanation: Some crossings have gates but no attendant or signals. You should stop, look both ways, listen and make sure that no train is approaching. If there's a telephone, contact the signal operator to make sure it's safe to cross.
A Don't cross the line
B No overtaking allowed
C No stopping allowed
D You're approaching a hazard
Correct Answer: D You're approaching a hazard
Explanation: Road markings will warn you of a hazard ahead. A single broken line along the centre of the road, with long markings and short gaps, is a hazard warning line. Don't cross it unless you can see that the road is clear well ahead.
A Change lane
B Leave the motorway at the next exit
C Move onto the hard shoulder
D Turn left immediately
Correct Answer: B Leave the motorway at the next exit
Explanation: You'll see this sign if the motorway is closed ahead. Pull into the left-hand lane as soon as it's safe to do so. Don't wait until the last moment before you move across, because the lane may be busy and you'll have to rely on another driver making room for you.
A The driver is a foreign visitor
B The driver is a rescue patrol officer
C The driver is first-aid trained
D The driver is likely to be a disabled person
Correct Answer: D The driver is likely to be a disabled person
Explanation: If a disabled driver's vehicle breaks down and they're unable to walk to an emergency phone, they're advised to stay in their car and switch on the hazard warning lights. They may also display a 'help' pennant in their vehicle.
A Be patient and prepare for them to react more slowly
B Flash your headlights to indicate that it's safe for them to proceed
C Overtake them as soon as possible
D Sound your horn to warn them of your presence
Correct Answer: A Be patient and prepare for them to react more slowly
Explanation: Learners might not have confidence when they first start to drive. Allow them plenty of room and don't react adversely to their hesitation. We all learn from experience, but new drivers will have had less practice in dealing with all the situations that might occur.
A Leave the motorway at the next exit
B Move into the right-hand lane
C Pass the lorry on the left
D Stop behind the flashing lights
Correct Answer: C Pass the lorry on the left
Explanation: Sometimes work is carried out on the motorway without closing the lanes. When this happens, signs are mounted on the back of lorries to warn other road users of the roadworks ahead.
A Avoid using dipped headlights
B Follow other vehicles' tail lights closely
C Keep two seconds behind the vehicle ahead
D Leave plenty of time for your journey
Correct Answer: D Leave plenty of time for your journey
Explanation: If you're planning to make a journey when it's foggy, listen to the weather reports. If visibility is very poor, avoid making unnecessary journeys. If you do travel, leave plenty of time - and if someone is waiting for you to arrive, let them know that your journey will take longer than normal. This will also take off any pressure you may feel to rush.
A Ensure that you don't exceed 30 mph
B Keep a good distance from the vehicle ahead
C Stay close to the vehicle ahead to reduce queues
D Switch lanes to keep the traffic flowing
Correct Answer: B Keep a good distance from the vehicle ahead
Explanation: At roadworks, and especially where a contraflow system is operating, a speed restriction is likely to be in place. Keep to the lower speed limit and don't
  • switch lanes
  • get too close to the vehicle in front of you.
Be aware that there will be no permanent barrier between you and the oncoming traffic.
A To attract a friend's attention
B To give you right of way
C To make slower drivers move over
D To warn others of your presence
Correct Answer: D To warn others of your presence
Explanation: Never sound the horn aggressively. You mustn't sound it when driving in a built-up area between 11.30 pm and 7.00 am, or when you're stationary, unless another road user poses a danger. Don't scare animals by sounding your horn.
A Be prepared to give way to large vehicles in the middle of the road
B Find another route; this one is only for high vehicles
C Move across to the right-hand side before going through
D Move out to the centre of the road before going through
Correct Answer: A Be prepared to give way to large vehicles in the middle of the road
Explanation: Oncoming large vehicles may need to move to the middle of the road to pass safely under the bridge. There won't be enough room for you to continue, so you should be ready to stop and wait.
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Even though you have priority, be prepared to give way if other drivers don't. This will help to avoid congestion, confrontation or even a collision.
A Where the speed limit exceeds 30 mph
B Where there are continuous white lines in the middle of the road
C Where you're facing oncoming traffic
D Where you're near a bus stop
Correct Answer: A Where the speed limit exceeds 30 mph
Explanation: When parking at night, park in the direction of the traffic. This will enable other road users to see the reflectors on the rear of your vehicle. Use your parking lights if the speed limit is over 30 mph.
A A faulty braking system
B A faulty electrical system
C A faulty exhaust system
D A faulty gearbox
Correct Answer: A A faulty braking system
Explanation: If you see that parts of the tread on your tyres are wearing before others, it may indicate a brake, steering or suspension fault. Regular servicing will help to detect faults at an early stage and this will avoid the risk of minor faults becoming serious or even dangerous.
A 20 mph
B 25 mph
C 35 mph
D 40 mph
Correct Answer: A 20 mph
Explanation: In some built-up areas, you may find the speed limit reduced to 20 mph. Driving at a slower speed will help give you the time and space to see and deal safely with hazards such as pedestrians and other vulnerable road users.
A 53 metres (175 feet)
B 60 metres (197 feet)
C 73 metres (240 feet)
D 96 metres (315 feet)
Correct Answer: D 96 metres (315 feet)
Explanation: Note that this is the typical stopping distance. It will take at least this distance to think, brake and stop in good conditions. In poor conditions, it will take much longer.
A 53 metres (175 feet)
B 58 metres (190 feet)
C 73 metres (240 feet)
D 96 metres (315 feet)
Correct Answer: C 73 metres (240 feet)
Explanation: This distance is the equivalent of 18 car lengths. Try pacing out 73 metres and then look back. It's probably further than you think.
A Follow them, flashing your headlights
B Gesture to them with your hand
C Shout abusive language
D Stop and take a break
Correct Answer: D Stop and take a break
Explanation: If you feel yourself becoming tense or upset, stop in a safe place and take a break. Tiredness can make things worse and may cause a different reaction to upsetting situations.
A Flash your headlights for the oncoming traffic to give way
B Follow it closely and keep moving out to see the road ahead
C Keep well back until you can see that it's clear
D Stay behind until the driver waves you past
Correct Answer: C Keep well back until you can see that it's clear
Explanation: When you're following a long vehicle, stay well back so that you can get a better view of the road ahead. The closer you get, the less you'll be able to see of the road. Be patient and don't take a gamble. Only overtake when you're certain that you can complete the manoeuvre safely.
A All vehicles use the hard shoulder
B Leave the motorway at the next exit
C Sharp bend to the left ahead
D Stop: all lanes ahead closed
Correct Answer: B Leave the motorway at the next exit
Explanation: You'll see this sign if there has been an incident ahead and the motorway is closed. You must obey the sign. Make sure that you prepare to leave in good time. Don't cause drivers to take avoiding action by cutting in at the last moment.
A If you have to read a map
B If your mobile phone rings
C In an emergency or breakdown
D When you're tired and need a rest
Correct Answer: C In an emergency or breakdown
Explanation: You shouldn't normally stop on a motorway, but there may be occasions when you need to do so. If you're unfortunate enough to break down, make every effort to pull up on the hard shoulder.
A It's a quicker route for the cyclist
B The cyclist is going to turn left instead
C The cyclist is slower and more vulnerable
D The cyclist thinks The Highway Code doesn't apply to bicycles
Correct Answer: C The cyclist is slower and more vulnerable
Explanation: Cycling in today's heavy traffic can be hazardous. Some cyclists may not feel happy about crossing the path of traffic to take up a position in an outside lane. Be aware of this and understand that, although they're in the left-hand lane, the cyclist might be turning right.
A 10 per minute
B 120 per minute
C 240 per minute
D 60 per minute
Correct Answer: B 120 per minute
Explanation: If a casualty isn't breathing normally, chest compressions may be needed to maintain circulation. Place two hands on the centre of the chest and press down hard and fast - around 5-6 centimetres and about twice a second.
Correct Answer: D 7 days
Explanation: You don't have to carry around your vehicle's documents wherever you go. If a police officer asks to see them and you don't have them with you, you may be asked to produce them at a police station within 7 days.
A Ancient monument ahead
B Low bridge ahead
C Traffic danger Tunnel ahead
D Tunnel ahead
Correct Answer: D Tunnel ahead
Explanation: When approaching a tunnel, switch on your dipped headlights. Be aware that your eyes might need to adjust to the sudden darkness. You may need to reduce your speed.
A Dab the wound to stop bleeding
B Fetch them a warm drink
C Keep both legs flat on the ground
D Raise the leg to lessen bleeding
Correct Answer: D Raise the leg to lessen bleeding
Explanation: If there's nothing in the wound, applying a pad of clean cloth or bandage will help stem the bleeding. Raising the leg will also lessen the flow of blood. Don't tie anything tightly round the leg, as this will restrict circulation and could result in long-term injury.