Tennessee Motorcycle Permit Test

Long-term exposure to wind noise can permanently damage your hearing. Using proper ear plugs or other hearing protection when riding is recommended.

A motorcycle that is carrying a passenger will handle differently than usual due to the added weight of the additional rider. An operator should ride at slower speeds and allow more time and distance to slow down and stop. A passenger should hold firmly and securely onto the motorcycle's passenger handgrips or onto the operator's waist, hips, or midsection.

Use hand signals when bright sunlight makes your mechanical signals difficult for other drivers to see. It is extremely important to clearly communicate with other road users.

Motorcycle riders should use their brake lights to communicate with other road users. It is particularly important for a motorcyclist to flash their brake light before slowing down to make a tight, fast turn off of a high-speed roadway. Motorcyclists should flash their brake lights when slowing in any location where other drivers may not expect them to slow down.

Check your clutch and throttle before riding your motorcycle. The throttle should snap back when you let go and the clutch should feel tight and smooth.

Motorcycles often seem to attract dogs. If you are being chased by a dog, downshift and approach it slowly. Then, as you approach the dog, accelerate and leave it behind.

Locking the brakes can cause control problems. If your front brake locks, you should release the brake then immediately re-apply it. If you lock your rear brake when stopping on a good traction surface, keep it locked until you have completely stopped.