MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) Rider's Course Practice Test

If a rider loses control while the motorcycle is accelerating, what should they do?

1. Shift into a higher gear

2. Turn off the engine

3. Apply more acceleration

4. Squeeze the clutch lever and apply the brakes

The correct answer is: Squeeze the clutch lever and apply the brakes

When a rider loses control while the motorcycle is accelerating, their first instinct may be to shift into a higher gear or turn off the engine, but these actions can actually worsen the situation. Shifting into a higher gear can cause the motorcycle to lurch and lose even more control, while turning off the engine can cause the rider to lose power steering and have a harder time controlling the motorcycle. Applying more acceleration can also make the situation worse. The best course of action is to squeeze the clutch lever and apply the brakes gradually to regain control and safely come to a stop.