New York City Motorcycle Permit Practice Test

What should you do if you encounter a large, slippery surface?

1. Accelerate quickly to maintain balance

2. Consider letting your feet skim along the surface

3. Stop immediately

4. Ride in the middle of the lane

The correct answer is: Consider letting your feet skim along the surface

When encountering a large, slippery surface, allowing your feet to skim along the ground can help maintain balance and control. This technique provides a greater sense of stability while allowing you to navigate through the slippery area without overreacting or causing loss of control. By skimming your feet near the surface, you can feel the texture and adjust your balance accordingly, which can be especially beneficial on an unstable surface. Maintaining a light grip on the handlebars while using this technique helps to absorb any unexpected movements from the motorcycle, allowing for better responsiveness while riding. It’s essential to remain calm and avoid sudden maneuvers, as they can result in a loss of traction. In contrast, accelerating quickly might lead to a loss of control on a slippery surface, as increased speed can reduce your stability and traction. Stopping suddenly could cause you to skid, as stopping on a slippery surface needs to be controlled. Riding in the middle of the lane may not provide the best line of stability, and positioning can vary depending on the road surface and conditions. Each of these alternatives can potentially increase the risk of an accident, making the skimming technique the best choice for maintaining control in slippery conditions.