Parking & Stopping

Study questions with answers

9 sample Parking & Stopping questions with the correct answer, a short explanation, and the official handbook reference. Read through them, then take the quiz above.

1. 1. Why should saddlebags be loaded equally on both sides?

   Correct answer: An uneven load can pull the bike to one side

   Loading one bag heavier than the other can make the bike drift to that side, so keep the weight balanced.

   Source: New Jersey Motorcycle Manual — Load and Cargo

2. 2. What is the main danger when starting a motorcycle on an upgrade?

   Correct answer: Rolling backward into another vehicle

   Starting on a hill always carries the risk of drifting back into the vehicle behind you.

   Source: New Jersey Motorcycle Manual — Going Uphill

3. 3. Why be careful of oil spots where you stop or park?

   Correct answer: They are slippery and can make the bike fall

   Oil spots where you stop or park are slippery and can cause the motorcycle to fall.

   Source: New Jersey Motorcycle Manual — Handling Dangerous Surfaces

4. 4. Why should you release the clutch gradually when starting uphill?

   Correct answer: Releasing too fast can lift the front wheel or stall the engine

   Releasing the clutch too quickly on a hill can lift the front wheel, stall the engine, or both.

   Source: New Jersey Motorcycle Manual — Going Uphill

5. 5. When starting on an uphill grade, what holds the motorcycle while you start the engine?

   Correct answer: The front brake

   On an upgrade, hold the bike with the front brake as you start the engine and select first gear.

   Source: New Jersey Motorcycle Manual — Going Uphill

6. 6. How should cargo be positioned on a motorcycle?

   Correct answer: Kept low, next to the seat or in the saddlebags

   Keep the load low, placing it next to the seat or in the saddlebags, so the center of gravity stays balanced.

   Source: New Jersey Motorcycle Manual — Load and Cargo

7. 7. Where should a load be placed relative to the rear axle?

   Correct answer: Over or ahead of the rear axle

   Position cargo forward, sitting above or ahead of the rear axle, because weight set behind the rear wheel can upset turning and braking.

   Source: New Jersey Motorcycle Manual — Load and Cargo

8. 8. What should you do with cargo during stops on a long ride?

   Correct answer: Check that it has not loosened or moved

   At each stop, look the cargo over to be sure nothing has worked loose or slid out of place.

   Source: New Jersey Motorcycle Manual — Load and Cargo

9. 9. Why must cargo be fastened securely?

   Correct answer: Cargo that works loose can jam the chain or wheel and lock it up

   Cargo that comes loose may get caught in the chain or a wheel, locking the rear wheel and triggering a skid.

   Source: New Jersey Motorcycle Manual — Load and Cargo