Maryland Motorcycle Permit Test

When doing a pre-ride inspection of your motorcycle, you should check the air pressure, general wear, and tread of your tires.

Under normal conditions, you should allow at least two seconds of distance between you and the vehicle ahead of you. The more distance between you and surrounding vehicles, the more time you will have to react if another driver makes a mistake.

Always be very careful when riding a motorcycle that is new to you. In most motorcycle crashes, the operator had less than six months of experience on the bike that they were riding.

The law requires that you use your low beam during bad weather conditions such as snow, rain, and fog, or in other conditions that may reduce visibility.

For riding, wear boots or shoes that are high and sturdy enough to cover and support your ankles. Heels should be short so that they don't catch on rough surfaces. Laces should be tucked in so that they don't snag on the motorcycle.

Shifting to a lower gear causes an effect similar to applying the brakes. This is known as engine braking.