Motorcycle Test Show-Me Tell-Me Questions

Ref Topic Show/Tell Question Answer
A1 Oil Tell Identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil. Identify where to check level, i.e. dipstick or sight glass. Explain that level should be between max and min marks. For dipstick remove dipstick and wipe clean, return and remove again to check oil level against max/min marks. For sight glass, ensure glass is clean when checking.
A2 Horn Show Show me how you would check that the horn is working on this machine (off road only). Check is carried out by using control (turn on ignition if necessary).
A3 Brake Fluid Tell Identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic fluid. Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.
A4 Lights Tell Tell me how you would check that the lights and reflectors are clean and working. Explanation only: Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), identify reflectors. Check visually for cleanliness and operation.
A5 Brake light Show Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working. Operate brake, place hand over light or make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help.
A6 Chain Tell Tell me how you would check the condition of the chain on this machine. Check for chain wear, correct tension and rear wheel alignment. Tension should be adjusted as specified in the machine handbook. Drive chain should be lubricated to ensure that excessive wear does not take place.
A7 Steering Show Show me what checks you would make on the steering movement before using the machine. Handlebars should be free to move smoothly from full left lock to full right lock without any control cables being stretched, trapped or pinched and without any snagging between moving and fixed parts.
A8 Tyres Tell Tell me how you would check your tyres to ensure that they are correctly inflated, have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road. Correct tyre pressure settings can be found in the owner’s manual. Pressures should be checked using a reliable gauge. Tread depth must be at least 1mm deep, forming a continuous band at least ¾ of the breadth of the tread and all the way around. There should be no lumps, bulges or tears.
A9 Front brake Show Show me how you would check the operation of the front brake on this machine. Wheel the machine forward and apply the front brake.
A10 Brakes Show Show me how you would check the operation of the brakes on this machine. Check for excessive travel on the brake lever and the brake pedal and for unusual play or sponginess.
A11 Emergency cut out Show Show me how you would check the operation of the engine cut out switch. Operate switch, without the engine being started.
A12 Rear fog light Show Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light and explain when you would use it (if fitted). Operate switch (turn on ignition and dipped headlights if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use.
A13 Headlight Show Show me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam. Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light.
Copied from direct.gov.uk, dated 01/07/2008.



In addition to two of the above questions, the Examiner will ask you one of the following questions, regarding carrying passengers or loads:



"What advice would you give a pillion passenger?"

Answer:
  • Ensure they are wearing an approved helmet, securely fastened and appropriate protective clothing including motorcycle gloves, boots, jacket and trousers
  • Explain how to get on the bike : wait for me to get on the bike and signal I have it securely held so they can get on, then ask them to use the footpeg to mount the bike and sit astride it, facing forwards
  • Explain how to sit on the bike : legs either side, feet on the passenger footpegs, hold onto the grab-rail or around the rider's waist
  • Explain what to do whilst on the bike : lean with the bike (don't try to lean it), don't give hand signals to other road users, keep feet on footpegs when we stop and try not to fidget when moving slowly


"What changes would you make to the bike before taking a pillion passenger?"

Answer:
  • Adjust the suspension pre-load
  • Adjust the tyre pressures
  • Adjust the headlamp
  • Fold the passenger footpegs down
  • Adjust the mirrors (once the pillion passenger is sat on the bike)


All according to the manufacturer's instructions (Owner's Handbook)



"How will carrying a pillion passenger affect the handling of the bike?"

Answer:
  • It will increase braking distance
  • It will decrease acceleration
  • It will make the bike heavier so cornering will be affected
  • The front wheel will feel lighter, affecting steering
  • At slow speeds, the extra weight will affect stability, especially if the pillion passenger moves whilst manoeuvring




"What do you need to consider when carrying a load on the bike?"

Answer:
  • Ensure the load is placed either on the pillion seat or a dedicated rack
  • Ensure the load is balanced equally on either side of the bike
  • Ensure the load is securely fastened and cannot move or work loose
  • Ensure all straps etc. are secure and cannot get caught in moving parts of the bike




"What would affect your balance?"

Answer:
  • Strong winds or turbulence from high-sided vehicles
  • Incorrect tyre pressures
  • A poorly maintained machine (e.g. wheels out of alignment)
  • Carrying additional weight such as a pillion passenger
  • A poor or uneven road surface
  • Being under the influence of drink or drugs

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