New York City Motorcycle Permit Practice Test

How should motorcycle riders position themselves while navigating through turns?

1. Keep weight centered

2. Lean into the turn

3. Stay upright

4. Shift weight to the right

The correct answer is: Lean into the turn

When navigating through turns, motorcycle riders should lean into the turn. This technique helps maintain balance and stability while allowing the motorcycle to turn more effectively. Leaning into the turn reduces the risk of losing traction and helps the rider counteract the centrifugal force that pushes them outward during a turn. Maintaining a proper lean angle helps lower the motorcycle's center of gravity and ensures that the tires maintain optimal contact with the road. This is crucial for traction because a motorcycle is fundamentally different from a car in how it takes turns; it relies on both the direction of the handlebars and the lean of the rider to maintain balance. In contrast, keeping weight centered might not provide the necessary lean for effective cornering, while staying upright would risk losing control as the motorcycle would be forced to turn without the appropriate lean angle. Shifting weight to the right could lead to an imbalance and unintended steering, potentially causing the rider to veer off course. Understanding the dynamics of leaning into turns is essential for safe and efficient motorcycle operation.