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Motorcycle Knowledge for the M1 Test
Helmet RequirementsAn approved motorcycle helmet is required by law and is your most important safety gear.Protective Riding GearJacket, gloves, pants and boots protect you in a slide — dress for the fall, not the ride.M1 Riding TimesM1 riders may only ride from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset.Passengers on an M1M1 riders may not carry passengers — only M2 and M holders can.Motorcycle ControlsKnowing your bike's controls cold lets you react without looking.Braking TechniqueUse both brakes, brake before a turn, and practise emergency stops.Braking in a CurveBrake before the corner, not in it — braking mid-turn can low-side you.Steering a MotorcycleSteer where you look — counter-steering at speed and pushing on the bars.Lane PositionPositioning yourself in the lane to see and be seen.Being SeenUse headlights and bright gear — many collisions happen because drivers don't see riders.Blind SpotsNever ride in another vehicle's blind spot for longer than needed.Riding in WindWind, including from passing trucks, can push you — stay loose and prepared.Riding in RainWet roads cut grip — brake earlier, corner more slowly and increase following distance.Group RidingRide staggered, keep spacing, and communicate with hand signals.Motorcycle TrainingA Ministry-approved course is the fastest, safest route to your M2.ABS BrakingAnti-lock brakes help prevent wheel lock-up in emergency stops.Tire CareCheck tire pressure and tread — they're your only contact with the road.Sober RidingZero alcohol for M1 and M2 riders — impairment and motorcycles are a deadly mix.Rider FatigueRiding is tiring — take breaks and never ride when exhausted.Kickstand CheckMake sure your kickstand is fully up before moving off.M1 Licensing StepsThe steps from M1 to full M licence, including waits and tests.Riding GearHelmet, gloves, jacket, pants and boots — the gear that saves skin and bones.Riding TechniqueThe fundamentals of smooth, safe motorcycle riding.Pre-Ride ChecklistA quick walk-around check of tires, lights, brakes and fluid before every ride.Weather and RidingHow rain, wind and cold change your riding.Road PositioningWhere to ride in the lane for visibility and safety.Road Surface HazardsSand, gravel, oil and metal covers — hazards that can put a rider down.Stopping DistancesStopping distance depends on speed, reaction time and conditions.Following Distance on a BikeExtra space is life — motorcycles stop differently than cars.Roads and Riding ConditionsHow road conditions affect motorcycle handling.