California DMV Motorcycle Knowledge Test (M1)Lane Position and VisibilityHard
You are riding on a winding road with limited visibility around curves. What is the optimal lane positioning strategy to maximize your sight distance and create a safety margin?
- AHug the inside of the curve to minimize the distance traveled.
- BConstantly weave within your lane to make yourself more noticeable to oncoming traffic.
- CPosition yourself on the outside of the curve as you approach it, then move to the inside, and exit on the outside.
- DStay in the center of your lane to maintain equal distance from both sides.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Position yourself on the outside of the curve as you approach it, then move to the inside, and exit on the outside.
This 'outside-inside-outside' technique (also known as a late apex or delayed apex) for curves maximizes your line of sight through the curve, allowing you to see further ahead and react to hazards sooner. It also provides a better escape path.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Hugging the inside of a blind curve severely limits your sight distance, potentially putting you in the path of oncoming traffic or unseen hazards.
- B. Weaving is unpredictable and dangerous, not a safe strategy for curves or any road condition.
- D. Staying in the center can limit your sight distance, especially on blind curves, and doesn't offer an optimal escape path.
Curve Strategy (Outside-Inside-Outside)
A technique for riding curves that maximizes line of sight and creates a safety margin by strategically altering lane position through the curve.
- Approach from the outside of the curve.
- Move towards the inside (apex) during the curve.
- Exit on the outside of the curve.
- Increases visibility and reaction time.
Memory trick: Outside-in, then out, no doubt!