NT rider knowledge test protective gear and helmets practice questions

Question 1

Which statement about helmets is correct for riding a motorcycle in the Northern Territory?

• The rider must wear an approved motorcycle helmet, and so must any pillion passengerCorrect answer
• Only the rider needs a helmet
• A helmet is optional in built up areas
• Any hard hat is acceptable

The helmet must meet a standard accepted in the Territory, such as AS/NZS 1698, and it must be properly fitted and fastened. Some jurisdictions also accept helmets built to United Nations ECE 22.05 or later, so check the current rule before you buy.

Rule cited: Australian Road Rules, rule 270 (wearing motorcycle helmets)

Question 2

It is 38 degrees and you are only riding a few blocks. Is it acceptable to leave the helmet behind?

• Yes, for trips under 2 km
• Yes, if you stay under 40 km/h
• No, an approved helmet must be worn and fastened whenever you ride on a roadCorrect answer
• Yes, if you carry the helmet on the bike

There is no short trip exemption. Most crashes happen close to home and at ordinary speeds, which is exactly where riders are most tempted to skip gear.

Rule cited: Australian Road Rules, rule 270 (wearing motorcycle helmets)

Question 3

You have come off your bike and your helmet took a knock, but it looks undamaged. What should you do with it?

• Keep using it until the shell cracks
• Replace it, because the energy absorbing liner only works onceCorrect answer
• Have the visor replaced and keep the helmet
• Use it as a spare for passengers

The liner crushes to absorb an impact and it does not spring back. A helmet that has taken a real impact should be retired even when the outside looks fine.

Rule cited: Northern Territory motorcycle rider handbook, topic: helmets and protective clothing

Question 4

Why is eye protection especially important on Territory highways?

• It only matters after dark
• Insects, dust and stones thrown up by other vehicles can blind you for long enough to lose controlCorrect answer
• It keeps the sun off your neck
• It is only needed on unsealed roads

Insect strike is heavy at dusk in the north, and passing road trains throw grit. A clear visor or goggles, kept clean, is basic safety equipment.

Rule cited: Northern Territory motorcycle rider handbook, topic: helmets and protective clothing

Question 5

It is very hot and you want to stay cool but still protected. What is the sensible choice?

• Ride in a singlet and shorts
• Wear vented or mesh riding gear with armour, which lets air through while keeping abrasion protectionCorrect answer
• Wear a heavy leather jacket with no vents
• Wear no gloves so your hands stay cool

Heat is not a reason to ride unprotected. Mesh gear moves air over you at speed, and covering your skin also keeps the sun off on long rides.

Rule cited: Northern Territory motorcycle rider handbook, topic: helmets and protective clothing

Question 6

How do gloves help a rider beyond protection in a fall?

• They reduce engine vibration only
• They keep a firm grip on the controls when your hands are sweaty, wet or numbCorrect answer
• They make the throttle lighter
• They are only useful in cold weather

Control depends on your hands. Riding gloves give grip, cut vibration and stop your palms being stripped if you put a hand down.

Rule cited: Northern Territory motorcycle rider handbook, topic: helmets and protective clothing

Question 7

Why are thongs or sandals a poor choice of footwear for riding?

• They slip off the footrests, give no ankle protection and offer nothing in a slideCorrect answer
• They make the gear lever harder to find and nothing else
• They are only a problem in the wet season
• They are fine for short trips

Feet are close to the road and take load in a fall. Sturdy boots that cover the ankle with a firm sole are the minimum for safe control.

Rule cited: Northern Territory motorcycle rider handbook, topic: helmets and protective clothing

Question 8

What does the armour fitted in a good riding jacket actually do?

• Nothing useful, it only adds weight
• It spreads and absorbs impact at the shoulders, elbows and back, where riders are most often hurtCorrect answer
• It stops the jacket from tearing
• It only helps at speeds over 100 km/h

Abrasion resistant material handles the slide, and armour handles the hit. Check that the armour stays over the joint when you sit in your riding position.

Rule cited: Northern Territory motorcycle rider handbook, topic: helmets and protective clothing