MSF Basic Rider Course Study Questions and Answers

Name 2 primary differences between cars/trucks and motorcycles. - Stability and visibility. What are the problems that these differences cause? - Motorcycles do not have the stability of cars because they must be balanced, and motorcycles leave you more vulnerable in a crash because there is less protection. Motorcycles are not as readily seen as cars, trucks, or other motor vehicles because of their size. Part of being responsible means to give a lot of thought to what? - The consequences of your riding behavior in traffic. What is the primary cause of motorcycle crashes? - There is rarely a single cause; most crashes involve many variable factors. How does the Handbook define a "good motorcyclist"? - To have the desire and motivation to choose to reduce risk while riding. How does a rider reduce factors that lead to crashes? - By applying a strategy. What does it mean to have a margin of safety? - 1) staying within personal skill limits; 2) staying within your motorcycle's limits, especially its tire traction limits; 3) staying within the available time and space to respond to traffic situations before having to react to an emergency. What is SEE, and what does each letter stand for? - Search, Evaluate, Execute is the strategy to help you understand what is going on in traffic and to be constantly planning and implementing a course of action. Name several purposes of protective riding gear. - Providing comfort, increasing visibility, and offering protection. What's the difference between a full-face and three-quarter-coverage helmet? - The three-quarter helmet doesn't offer the face and chin protection of full-face helmets. Why aren't ordinary glasses or sunglasses sufficient eye protection? - They may not seal out wind and dust that makes eyes water. What stickers are likely to indicate a well-made helmet? - DOT and Snell stickers. What type of injury accounts for the majority of motorcycle deaths? - Head injuries. What is the value of appropriate footwear? - Protection from road hazards, burns from exhaust pipes, gripping pavement and footrests, and protection from foot and ankle injuries. What is the value of motorcycle specific clothing? - Best combination of fit and protection. Define "hypothermia" and provide an example. - A condition of subnormal body temperature. Can cause loss of concentration, slowed reactions, and lost of smooth, precise muscle movement. What is the value of dressing in layers? - Layers can be removed as desired.