Maine DMV Motorcycle Permit Practice Test 2024

The front brake provides more stopping power than the rear brake. It stands for about 75% of your total stopping power. Be careful so you don't grab at the front brake and cause your brakes to lock.

The motorcyclist is most likely checking his/her blind spot before turning/changing lanes. By looking for indications like this, you’ll get an early clue of their intention. The same applies to cyclists.

Generally; Left shoulder = manouvre to the left; right shoulder = manovure to the right.

Braking in a curve may cause your motorcycle to skid. This can be avoided by slowing down beforehand.

Drive chains must be frequently adjusted and maintained to ensure they are in good condition and with the correct tension. The drive chain must be regularly oiled to reduce wear (a dry chain will experience much quicker wear). The tension should also be checked regularly as slack can lead to the chain jumping off the socket and locking the rear wheel.

Uneven loads can cause the motorcycle to drift toward one side and make it much harder to control. Try to distribute the load evenly.

Consider the right clothing as a necessary part of riding. Motorcycle clothes will help protect you in a collision, make riding more comfortable, and keep you warm.

Children must wear a full-faced U.S. DOT compliant properly-fitted motorcycle safety helmet. Do not use a half-shell, three-quarters or modular helmet on children. Make sure the helmet is fitted properly so it does not come off in an accident.

The condition and surface of the road you are driving on will affect the stopping distance. On dirt, gravel or wet roads, your stopping distance is greatly increased. Try to slow down before reaching a bend or curve on these types of road surfaces to prevent a disaster.

It is extremely important that motorcycle riders signal properly as they are already vulnerable in traffic and more likely to be in an accident compared to car drivers. Signaling reduces confusion, will help traffic know of your intentions, and will make you easier to see. Use them anytime you plan to change lanes or turn.

The braking distance increases quickly, especially when driving at high speeds. It’s important that you keep a sufficient following distance so that you have enough time to safely stop if anything happens.

Making eye contact with another driver will let you know that the other driver is aware of your presence and minimize the risk of a collision. This is especially important at intersections and crosswalks.

Never "grab" the front brake as it may cause your motorcycle to tip over or skid. A skid will occur if you apply too much brake. Using the front brake on a slippery surface may be hazardous.

Excess oil in the engine can be problematic as it will create excess crankcase pressure. This can damage seals and cause leaks.

To ‘over drive’ your headlights means that you won’t be able to stop within the area lighted up by your headlights. This is a problem for all drivers, but motorcyclists may be more susceptible to objects on the road etc.

For example, if you’re driving faster than 25 mph with low-beam headlights at night, it may be too late to stop without hitting an object by the time you see it.

The BAC limit is 0.08 for drivers 21 years old or older, but you may be affected at a much lower BAC and be an unsafe rider after as little as one alcoholic beverage. The BAC limit for motorcyclists is the same as for car drivers.

While some of these alternatives affect the stopping distance, they will not affect your reaction time (how long it takes for you to hit the brakes).

Fatigue can have the same effects as alcohol, and can be just as dangerous. Fatigue slows down your reaction and response time, while also affecting your judgement and vision.

Emergency vehicles with flashing lights and/or sirens on have the right-of-way in all situations. Ride to the right side of the road and stop until the emergency vehicle has passed you.

Railroad crossings are dangerous, which means you need to be careful om approach. Slow down on approach and be prepared to stop - look in both directions for approaching trains even if the lights are not flashing. Remember that lights/signals can and do malfunction.

By doing a final shoulder check before changing direction, you will be aware of what's happening behind and alongside you. Time the shoulder check so you have time to postpone the maneuver if it isn't safe.

At night, riders should be flexible about lane position. Change lanes to whatever lane position helps you see, be seen, and to maintain a proper space cushion.