California DMV Motorcycle Knowledge Test (M1)Motorcycle Controls and Basic ManeuversMedium
When parking a motorcycle on a slight downgrade, what is the recommended procedure to prevent it from rolling forward off its stand?
- APark in neutral with the handlebars turned slightly uphill.
- BLeave the motorcycle in first gear or reverse (if equipped), facing uphill.
- CLeave the motorcycle in first gear, facing downhill.
- DPark in neutral with the front wheel turned into the curb (if present).
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Leave the motorcycle in first gear or reverse (if equipped), facing uphill.
Parking in first gear (or reverse if available) acts as an additional brake, preventing the motorcycle from rolling. Facing uphill on a downgrade allows gravity to pull the bike against the gear, providing more stability. If facing downhill, the gear would still help, but gravity would be working with the potential roll, making it less secure.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Parking in neutral offers no resistance to rolling; turning handlebars uphill on a downgrade won't prevent rolling.
- C. Leaving it in first gear is good, but facing downhill means gravity could potentially pull it off the stand more easily.
- D. Neutral offers no resistance; turning the wheel into a curb is helpful if present but not the primary method for preventing roll.
Motorcycle Parking
Proper motorcycle parking on inclines/declines involves using the kickstand, engaging a gear, and positioning the bike to use gravity to its advantage to prevent rolling.
- Always use the kickstand or center stand.
- Engage first gear (or reverse) to prevent rolling.
- On downgrade, park facing uphill if possible.
- On upgrade, park facing downhill if possible, or against a curb.
Memory trick: Gear up, gravity helps, keep it steady, never slips.