WA rider knowledge test weather, animals and distance practice questions

Question 1

You are riding a long exposed highway in a strong crosswind. What is the best technique?

• Grip the bars tightly and hold the bike rigid
• Reduce speed, relax your arms, and expect the push to change as you pass cuttings, trees and vehiclesCorrect answer
• Increase speed so the wind has less time to act
• Sit as tall as possible to steady the bike

A tight grip feeds every gust straight into the steering. Lower speed and loose arms let the motorcycle move under you, and you should expect a sudden change whenever you enter or leave shelter.

Rule cited: Ride Safe handbook (Western Australia), topic: wind and weather

Question 2

You are planning a ride on a remote road with long distances between towns. What should you plan around?

• Your fuel range with a reserve, water to carry, and how far apart the fuel stops actually areCorrect answer
• Only the total distance for the day
• The scenery
• Nothing, service stations are everywhere

Motorcycle tanks are small and outback fuel stops can be closed or hundreds of kilometres apart. Plan on your real range with a margin, carry water, and check opening hours before you rely on a stop.

Rule cited: Ride Safe handbook (Western Australia), topic: riding in remote areas

Question 3

When are kangaroos, emus and stock most likely to be on a Western Australian country road?

• Around dawn and dusk and after darkCorrect answer
• In the middle of the day
• Only in winter
• Only within town limits

That is when animals move to feed and water. Slow down at those times, scan the verges as well as the road, and remember that where one animal crosses, more usually follow.

Rule cited: Ride Safe handbook (Western Australia), topic: animals on the road

Question 4

How does heat affect a rider on a long summer trip?

• It has no effect with vented gear
• Dehydration builds quickly in the wind and dulls concentration and reaction time before you notice itCorrect answer
• It sharpens concentration
• It only affects riders without a windscreen

The airflow dries sweat before you feel it, so you lose fluid faster than you realise. Drink at every stop rather than waiting until you are thirsty, and shorten the riding day in extreme heat.

Rule cited: Ride Safe handbook (Western Australia), topic: fatigue

Question 5

How often should you take a proper rest break on a long ride?

• Only when you need fuel
• At least every two hours, and sooner if your concentration starts to driftCorrect answer
• Once every five hours
• Breaks are unnecessary if you slept well

Wind pressure, noise, vibration and constant balancing tire a rider faster than a driver. Get off the bike, walk around, drink and eat, and treat early fatigue as a reason to stop rather than push on.

Rule cited: Ride Safe handbook (Western Australia), topic: fatigue