California DMV Motorcycle Knowledge Test (M1)Hazard Avoidance and Emergency ManeuversMedium
You are riding your motorcycle on a winding mountain road. Suddenly, you enter a shaded area and encounter a patch of gravel on the road in the middle of a curve. What is your best course of action?
- AShift down several gears and apply strong engine braking.
- BBrake firmly and steer sharply to avoid the gravel.
- CMaintain a steady throttle, keep the motorcycle upright, and ride through it.
- DIncrease your lean angle to maintain the curve while crossing the gravel.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Maintain a steady throttle, keep the motorcycle upright, and ride through it.
When encountering unexpected loose surfaces like gravel in a curve, the safest approach is to minimize changes in speed or direction. Maintaining a steady throttle and keeping the motorcycle as upright as possible reduces the risk of losing traction. Braking or sharp steering on gravel significantly increases the chance of a skid.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Engine braking can cause the rear wheel to lose traction on a slippery surface, similar to applying the rear brake too hard.
- B. Braking and sharp steering on gravel are very likely to cause a skid and loss of control.
- D. Increasing lean angle on a loose surface drastically reduces available traction and is very likely to cause a fall.
Riding on Loose Surfaces
When unexpectedly encountering loose surfaces (gravel, sand) on a motorcycle, maintain a steady speed, keep the bike upright, and avoid sudden braking or steering inputs.
- Traction is significantly reduced.
- Smooth inputs are critical.
- Avoid leaning, braking, or accelerating sharply.
Memory trick: Gravel's Grip is Gone, so Go Straight and Steady.