New York City Motorcycle Permit Practice Test

When preparing to enter the roadway from the roadside, how should you position your motorcycle?

1. At a right angle

2. At an angle

3. Perpendicular to the lane

4. Parallel to the traffic flow

The correct answer is: At an angle

Positioning your motorcycle at an angle when preparing to enter the roadway from the roadside is essential for several reasons. This approach allows for better visibility of oncoming traffic, giving you the advantage of seeing vehicles approaching from both directions more clearly. By angling your motorcycle, you can also make it easier to gauge the gap in traffic that you need to enter safely. Additionally, this positioning helps to ensure that you are prepared to merge smoothly into the flow of traffic without encountering a sharp turn or abrupt movement that could disrupt your stability or control. It’s also a more natural body position for throttle and brake application, contributing to a more confident and controlled entry onto the roadway. Other positions like being at a right angle or perpendicular to the lane may limit your visibility and might not provide the best alignment for a safe merge into the traffic flow. Being parallel to traffic, while it might seem logical, isn’t optimal since it doesn’t provide the same visibility benefits compared to an angled approach. Therefore, angling your motorcycle correctly prepares you for a safe transition onto the roadway.