Motorcycle Permit Practice Test

When needing to brake and swerve, what is your best approach?

1. Brake and swerve at the same time

2. Brake before swerving

3. Swerve before braking

4. Only brake when it is safe

The correct answer is: Brake before swerving

When needing to brake and swerve, the most effective approach is to brake before swerving. This method allows you to reduce your speed and maintain better control of the motorcycle while maneuvering around an obstacle. Braking first allows the rider to slow down, which is crucial for several reasons. It decreases the momentum of the motorcycle, making it easier to steer and providing a more stable platform to execute the swerve. This is particularly important since a motorcycle can become less stable at higher speeds. Additionally, braking helps to transfer weight toward the front wheel, increasing traction and enhancing control during the maneuver. In contrast, swerving before braking can lead to a loss of control. The motorcycle may have too much speed when initiating the swerve, making it difficult to steer effectively and potentially increasing the risk of an accident. Attempting to brake and swerve simultaneously can further complicate the situation, as it may lead to instability or an unintended loss of traction. When braking only when it is safe does not directly address the urgency of the situation where immediate action is required. It's crucial to prepare for the swerve by reducing speed first, thus ensuring that any evasive action taken afterward is controlled and more effective. This sequence of actions