Motorcycle Permit Practice Test

When making a slow, tight turn, how should a rider position their body?

1. Lean the motorcycle while keeping body straight

2. Sit upright at all times

3. Lean away from the turn

4. Sit with both feet on the ground

The correct answer is: Lean the motorcycle while keeping body straight

When making a slow, tight turn on a motorcycle, it's essential for the rider to lean the motorcycle while keeping their body straight. This technique helps to lower the center of gravity, which increases the stability of the motorcycle and allows for better control during the maneuver. Leaning the bike helps counteract the forces acting on it during the turn, specifically the centrifugal force that wants to push the motorcycle upright. By maintaining a straight position on the bike while leaning it, the rider can effectively balance the motorcycle and navigate the turn more smoothly without losing traction or forcing the handlebars. This balance is especially critical in tight turns where space is limited and greater precision is required for successful navigation. Almost all other methods, such as sitting upright or leaning away from the turn, disrupt this balance and can lead to instability, making turns more difficult and potentially dangerous. Keeping both feet on the ground is not practical when executing a turn, as it limits the rider's ability to maneuver effectively and can result in losing control of the vehicle.