New York FREE Motorcycle Permit Practice Test 2014

In addition to offering the Class-M Motorcycle license, New York also makes a junior license available (Class MJ). In order to obtain either of these licenses, you have to have a learners permit first. The permit test is based of New York’s Motorcycle Manual, which can be found here. Those seeking full licensure are also required to take the standard New York driver’s license test , in addition to the motorcycle road test after 30 hours practice time.
In New York, motorcycles need to have their registration renewed once a year. They also must have an official inspection at a New York City Inspection Station licensed by the DMV.

Equipment

1. Bike

A major portion of the motorcycle manual is devoted to safety, equipment, and preparing to ride. The basic equipment required by law for a motorcycle to be street-legal are: headlights, tail lights, stop light, license plate lamp, at least one red-reflector, and directional turn signals if applicable (by design or if made after 1985 in most cases). In bikes that were made from the year 1971 on, brakes are required for both wheels. Some type of horn or “warning device” is needed as well, as is one rearview mirror on the motorcycle’s handlebars. The manual “strongly recommends” mirrors on both handlebars, however. Handlebars must be at the same level or lower than the operator’s shoulders while he or she is seated. Seats must be provided for both for the driver and any passenger, and only one passenger is allowed at one time. Muffler cut-off devices are also prohibited. Always check the tires, throttle, brakes, all the lights and turn signals, the clutch, and all fluid levels. Adjust and clean mirrors before driving.

1. Helmets

One should know the types of helmets that are approved by the state of New York . There are two main types: three-quarter and full face. There are also important pieces of statistical knowledge related to safety helmet use that are covered in the manual. The basic facts are that most accidents happen on short trips, and while motorcyclists are travelling less than 30mph—helmets have a big impact in reducing brain injury at low speeds. 1 in 5 motorcycle accidents causes a head or neck injury. Most fatal motorcycle crashes are the result of head and neck injuries.

1. Other Gear

Other gear one should be familiar with: face and eye-protectors and clothing. Face and eye shielding should be free of scratches and clear, yet thick enough not to break and cause injury. A face-shield is not required unless the motorcycle lacks a windshield. For full protection, it’s recommended that riders wear jackets that are durable and cover the legs and arms, boots that go above the ankles, and gloves are that are made leather or other durable materials.

H2. Preparing to Ride

There are four major areas in which to prepare. You should do an equipment check, a motorcycle familiarity check, a safety check, and amental check (responsibility check). These four steps are recommended by the manual before driving a motorcycle.

• Knowing Your Bike

Knowing your motorcycle is very important. NY recommends reading the individual motorcycle’s manual, checking the bike frequently, avoiding cumbersome add-ons, becoming familiar with its controls, and keeping the bike in a safe area between rides. Also, finding the right motorcycle for you is important. A bike that is too big or too small for you could be dangerous on the road.

• Controls

Know where all the valves, switches, and headlight control are. Know the gear-shifting pattern and work the clutch, throttle, and breaks before riding. Drive cautiously if your riding a motorcycle you have never driven before.

• Mental Check

Be sure that you are in the right frame of mind to be operating a motorcycle. If you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, don’t drive. If you are unfamiliar with any of the motorcycle’s controls or the laws of the road, don’t drive.

• Borrowing

Be aware that there are many issues with lending out your bike or riding another person’s motorcycle. Make sure you are familiar with the motorcycle you’re riding. Be aware of potential insurance liability issues.

H3. While Driving

Always drive within your abilities.

1. Control

Know the proper way to hold the throttle and handle grips.
Some questions you can expect are:

• What is the proper posture for sitting on a motorcycle? (Use arms to control bike, not hold yourself up).
• How should one sit? (Far enough forward so your arms are bent).
• Where should you put your feet while driving? (On the footpegs).
• Where should you keep your knees? (On the gas tank to balance you while riding).

1. Shifting

Because motorcycles require you to downshift, one must be familiar with shifting up and down through all the gears. While stopped at an intersection, you should keep the motorcycle in first gear in case you have to accelerate. Take care to only downshift at the appropriate speed so that the bike does not lurch or skid while you’re driving.
Before taking your motorcycle permit test, be sure to check out the cheat sheets found here