Wisconsin Motorcycle Permit Practice Test

Correct answer: Steer the motorcycle, rather than to hold yourself up

Good posture means sitting so you can use your arms to steer the motorcycle rather than to hold yourself up. Sit far enough forward that your arms are slightly bent when you hold the handgrips.

Correct answer: Proper wearing of an approved helmet

With few exceptions, research shows head and neck injuries are reduced by the proper wearing of an approved helmet. Crashes are not rare, particularly among beginning riders.

Correct answer: Just after it starts to rain, before surface oil washes away

Oil and dust build up on the road, and the first rain lifts them into a slick film before washing them to the side. Those opening minutes are the most treacherous, so slow down and add space.

Correct answer: A Class M license

All Wisconsin residents who plan to operate a motorcycle on public roads must have a Class M (motorcycle) license. Most Class M holders also hold a Class D car license, but a "motorcycle only" license is available.

Correct answer: Left portion of your lane, at a safe following distance

Riding in the left portion of your lane before you pass increases your line of sight and makes you more visible. Signal, check for oncoming traffic, use your mirrors, and turn your head before you move over.

Correct answer: Never saw the motorcycle

A motorcycle's outline is much smaller than a car's, and most drivers are not looking for motorcycles. Because you are so easy to miss, your biggest safety job is making yourself seen — ride as if you are invisible until you know otherwise.

Correct answer: Against the gas tank, to help keep your balance

Keep your knees against the gas tank to help you keep your balance as the motorcycle turns.

Correct answer: The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)

For the most protection, a helmet should meet U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and state standards. The MSF also recommends a Snell Memorial Foundation label for added assurance of quality.

Correct answer: Lane markings, steel plates, and manhole covers, especially when wet

Smooth surfaces like painted markings, steel plates, and manhole covers give far less grip than pavement and turn slick when wet. Gravel, sand, mud, snow, and ice are hazards too — cross them upright and avoid braking or turning on them.

Correct answer: A valid Class D driver license

An autocycle has three wheels, a steering wheel, and seats you sit in rather than straddle. A valid Class D driver license is required to operate one — not a Class M.

Correct answer: The center portion of your lane

Staying in the center portion keeps a cushion on both sides. Riding closer to the passing vehicle risks a sideswipe or extended mirrors, while moving to the far edge can invite the driver to cut back in too early.

Correct answer: At all times, day and night

The best way to help others see your motorcycle is to keep the headlight on at all times. Most motorcycles turn it on automatically once the engine starts.

Correct answer: Firmly on the footpegs

Keep your feet firmly on the footpegs to maintain balance. Don’t drag your feet — if a foot catches on something you can be injured and lose control. Keep your feet near the controls and don’t let your toes point down.

Correct answer: Full-face and three-quarter

There are two primary helmet types: full-face and three-quarter. A full-face helmet provides the most coverage. Whichever you choose, make sure it meets DOT standards and fits snugly.

Correct answer: In the tire tracks left by cars

The oily center strip becomes hazardous when wet. Riding in the tire tracks left by cars — often the left track works best — keeps you on the part of the lane with the most traction.

Correct answer: A valid Class D driver license

Anyone with a valid Class D driver license can operate a moped in Wisconsin. A moped does not require a Class M license the way a motorcycle does.

Correct answer: Extended mirrors, objects thrown from windows, and blasts of wind

Some drivers forget their mirrors hang out past their fenders, a passenger may toss something, and a larger vehicle throws a blast of wind. Staying in the center portion gives you the most room to absorb any of these.

Correct answer: High beam

Using the high beam during the day increases the chance that oncoming drivers will notice you. Switch to low beam at night, in bad weather, and when meeting or following other traffic.

Correct answer: Flat

Start with your right wrist flat. This helps you keep from accidentally using too much throttle. Adjust the handlebars so your hands are even with or below your elbows for precise steering.

Correct answer: Fit snugly all the way around, with no obvious defects

The most protection comes from a helmet that fits snugly all the way around and has no obvious defects such as cracks, loose padding, or frayed straps.