MSF BASIC RIDER COURSE EXAM STUDY
GUIDE 2026 FULL QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
GRADED A+
◉ What is the benefit of squaring the handlebars when coming to a
stop? Answer: Makes the bike easier to hold up (pg. 10)
◉ Why does the front brake have more stopping power than the rear
brake? Answer: Weight shifts towards the front tire while slowing,
giving it more grip. (pg. 10)
◉ How does the motorcycle's weight shift during braking? Answer:
It shifts mostly to the front and significantly lightens the rear. (pg.
10)
◉ How do you stop in a curve? Answer: Gradually apply both brakes
as you straighten up the motorcycle.
The motorcycle should be straight up and the handlebars should be
square before you come to a complete stop.
Be sure to downshift and keep the clutch lever squeezed in (pg. 10)
◉ Why do you change gears? Answer: To match engine speed to
road speed (pg. 11)
,◉ List the three-step process to shift to a higher hear. Answer: 1. roll
off the throttle
2. Lift the shifter as far as it will go.
3. Ease out the clutch and roll the throttle on
(pg. 11)
◉ List the three-step process to shift to a lower gear. Answer: 1. roll
off the throttle
2. Press the shifter down and then release.
3. Ease out the clutch and roll the throttle on
(pg. 11)
◉ What is engine braking? Answer: Using the engine's resistance to
help slow the vehicle (pg. 11)
◉ What is the position of the clutch lever when making a stop?
Answer: Fully squeezed (pg. 11)
◉ List the four preparations for preparing to ride. Answer: Make
sure that:
1. You fit the motorcycle
2. You inspect the motorcycle
, 3. You use proper protective gear
4. You have a good mental attitude with safety as the priority
(pg. 12)
◉ How should your motorcycle fit you? Answer: Seat height should
be low enough so you can reach the ground and support the
motorcycle;
motorcycle size should be right for your strength and skill level so
you can handle it well;
adjust the controls or replace the seat to fit you better (pg. 12)
◉ What is T-CLOCS and what does each letter stand for? Answer: T-
Tire and Wheels
C-Controls
L-Lights
O-Oil and fluids
C-Chassis
S-Stands
(pg. 12)
◉ List the three primary purposes of riding gear. Answer: 1-helps
keep you comfortable and focused;
2-helps keep your body protected, and
GUIDE 2026 FULL QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
GRADED A+
◉ What is the benefit of squaring the handlebars when coming to a
stop? Answer: Makes the bike easier to hold up (pg. 10)
◉ Why does the front brake have more stopping power than the rear
brake? Answer: Weight shifts towards the front tire while slowing,
giving it more grip. (pg. 10)
◉ How does the motorcycle's weight shift during braking? Answer:
It shifts mostly to the front and significantly lightens the rear. (pg.
10)
◉ How do you stop in a curve? Answer: Gradually apply both brakes
as you straighten up the motorcycle.
The motorcycle should be straight up and the handlebars should be
square before you come to a complete stop.
Be sure to downshift and keep the clutch lever squeezed in (pg. 10)
◉ Why do you change gears? Answer: To match engine speed to
road speed (pg. 11)
,◉ List the three-step process to shift to a higher hear. Answer: 1. roll
off the throttle
2. Lift the shifter as far as it will go.
3. Ease out the clutch and roll the throttle on
(pg. 11)
◉ List the three-step process to shift to a lower gear. Answer: 1. roll
off the throttle
2. Press the shifter down and then release.
3. Ease out the clutch and roll the throttle on
(pg. 11)
◉ What is engine braking? Answer: Using the engine's resistance to
help slow the vehicle (pg. 11)
◉ What is the position of the clutch lever when making a stop?
Answer: Fully squeezed (pg. 11)
◉ List the four preparations for preparing to ride. Answer: Make
sure that:
1. You fit the motorcycle
2. You inspect the motorcycle
, 3. You use proper protective gear
4. You have a good mental attitude with safety as the priority
(pg. 12)
◉ How should your motorcycle fit you? Answer: Seat height should
be low enough so you can reach the ground and support the
motorcycle;
motorcycle size should be right for your strength and skill level so
you can handle it well;
adjust the controls or replace the seat to fit you better (pg. 12)
◉ What is T-CLOCS and what does each letter stand for? Answer: T-
Tire and Wheels
C-Controls
L-Lights
O-Oil and fluids
C-Chassis
S-Stands
(pg. 12)
◉ List the three primary purposes of riding gear. Answer: 1-helps
keep you comfortable and focused;
2-helps keep your body protected, and
