Handling Emergencies

Study questions with answers

12 sample Handling Emergencies questions with the correct answer, a short explanation, and the official handbook reference. Read through them, then take the quiz above.

1. 1. If the engine begins to lose power and change sound because it is low on oil, what should you do?

   Correct answer: Squeeze the clutch, pull off, and check the oil

   The first sign of engine seizure is a loss of power or change in sound, so you should squeeze the clutch lever to disengage the engine, pull off the road, and check the oil.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual - Mechanical Problems (Engine Seizure)

2. 2. If a tire goes flat and you must stop, how should you use the brakes?

   Correct answer: Gradually brake using the tire that is not flat

   If braking is needed with a flat tire, gradually apply the brake of the tire that is not flat, once you are sure which one it is, then edge to the side and stop.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual - Mechanical Problems (Tire Failure)

3. 3. What does the manual say about how a locked, straight rear wheel can be handled versus a locked front wheel?

   Correct answer: A straight locked rear can stay locked; a locked front must be released

   A locked rear wheel can be kept locked until you stop if the motorcycle is upright and straight, but a locked front wheel must be released immediately to keep steering and balance.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual - Crash Avoidance (Quick Stops)

4. 4. What should you do first if the throttle sticks open and twisting it does not free it?

   Correct answer: Use the engine cut-off switch and pull in the clutch

   If the throttle stays stuck, immediately operate the engine cut-off switch and squeeze the clutch lever at the same time to remove power from the rear wheel.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual - Mechanical Problems (Stuck Throttle)

5. 5. How should braking and swerving be combined when you must do both to avoid a crash?

   Correct answer: Brake before or after, but not during the swerve

   If the situation allows, separate braking from swerving; brake before or after the swerve, but never while making an aggressive swerve.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual - Crash Avoidance (Swerving or Turning Quickly)

6. 6. If a dog begins chasing your motorcycle, what is the recommended way to handle it?

   Correct answer: Approach slowly, then accelerate away

   If chased by a dog, downshift and approach the animal slowly, then accelerate to leave it behind; do not kick at it, and keep control while looking where you want to go.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual - Crash Avoidance (Animals)

7. 7. If a flying object such as a pebble or insect strikes you or your face shield, what should you do?

   Correct answer: Keep your eyes on the road and hands on the bars

   Whatever happens, keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the handlebars, and pull off the road to repair the damage when it is safe.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual - Crash Avoidance (Flying Objects)

8. 8. In traffic, is it better to hit a small animal in your lane or to swerve into another lane to avoid it?

   Correct answer: Stay in your lane rather than risk hitting a car

   If you are in traffic you should remain in your lane, since hitting something small is less dangerous to you than hitting something big like a car.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual - Crash Avoidance (Animals)

9. 9. How do studies say most crash-involved riders tend to misuse their brakes?

   Correct answer: They underbrake the front and overbrake the rear

   Studies show most crash-involved riders underbrake the front tire and overbrake the rear, and often fail to separate braking from swerving when needed.

   Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual - Crash Avoidance

10. 10. When crossing railroad tracks that run across your lane, what is usually the safest path?

    Correct answer: Ride straight within your lane across them

    It is usually safer to ride straight within your lane to cross tracks; turning to take them at a sharp angle can steer you into another lane of traffic.

    Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual - Handling Dangerous Surfaces (Railroad Tracks)

11. 11. If your front tire suddenly goes flat while riding, how will the motorcycle feel?

    Correct answer: The steering will feel heavy

    A front-tire flat makes the steering feel heavy and is especially hazardous because it affects your steering; a rear flat instead makes the back jerk or sway.

    Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual - Mechanical Problems (Tire Failure)

12. 12. If a chain or belt breaks while you are riding, what is likely to happen?

    Correct answer: You lose power and the rear wheel may lock

    A chain or belt that slips or breaks can lock the rear wheel and cause a skid; you will notice an instant loss of power, so close the throttle and brake to a stop in a safe area.

    Source: MSF Motorcycle Operator Manual - Mechanical Problems (Drive Train Problems)