Motorcycle Permit Practice Test

If you need to change gears as you approach a turn, when is the best time to do it?

1. As you enter the turn

2. After completing the turn

3. Before the turn

4. During the turn

The correct answer is: Before the turn

Changing gears before entering a turn is a crucial technique for maintaining control and stability on your motorcycle. When you shift to the appropriate gear beforehand, it allows you to manage your speed effectively, ensuring you are at an optimal RPM for accelerating out of the turn without the risk of stalling or losing power. By already being in the correct gear before making the turn, you can focus on navigating the corner safely rather than dividing your attention between shifting gears and steering. This pre-turn adjustment helps prepare the motorcycle’s handling characteristics, which is particularly important since lean angles and traction dynamics will shift during a turn. It is important to avoid changing gears as you enter or during the turn, as these actions can lead to unwanted changes in speed and balance. Shifting gears while leaning can also destabilize the motorcycle, making it more challenging to steer and maintain control. Similarly, waiting until after completing the turn could result in a less smooth transition, potentially causing you to miss the right throttle control needed for exiting the turn confidently.