Operating a two-wheeler is VERY different from a four-wheeler.
Obviously.
This is why there is a separate driving test for these vehicles.
And if you are about to take that test in a few days, we have some helpful tips to share with you.
With these tips, you’ll be more than ready to ace that test on your first try. We’ll include tips that you should do BEFORE and DURING the test.
So are you ready to find out the two-wheeler driving test tips?
Let’s begin!
Before the Day of Your Test
You can’t expect to arrive at the center and ace the test without some beforehand preparation.
This is why it’s always good to be prepared before the day of your actual driving test. Here are some of the things you need to keep an eye on before entering the battlefield:
Don’t underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep
Proper sleep is essential for everything you do daily — a motorcycle driving test is no exception. You’ll be more alert, patient, and focused if you’re well-rested.
Those documents are necessary, boy
Before you go to sleep, make sure you have all the required documents. This includes your learner’s permit, ID, application papers, and vehicle registration papers.
To make sure you don’t leave anything behind, put them all inside an envelope.
You don’t want to walk into the office just to find out you left behind one thing.
Know what you’re getting into
Knowing how the test is conducted puts you in the right headspace. It allows you to focus on what skills you should prioritize practicing.
Now, these tests are usually done in a closed area. You will have to do a series of turns and stops with cones and lines.
It’s pretty much an obstacle course for motorcycles.
These cones and lines will serve as restrictions that allow the examiner to score you based on your precision and skill.
Remember that the scoring system is based on time and distance standards. Points can also be deducted if you commit violations such as wrong pathing or putting your foot down.
On top of that, you will be tested for 4 skills — braking, maneuvering, stopping, and driving at a slow speed. Two-wheeler tests hold drills for each of these tests.
Practice makes perfect, we’ve all heard it before
If you’re not confident about the drills, practice before test day.
You know what they say, “practice makes perfect”.
Find a space big enough for you to maneuver your motorcycle. It can be an empty parking lot or even your backyard.
If you don’t know how to perform the drills, there are some diagrams online that you can use as guides.
You can also check out this video to get an idea of how the drills are done:
The Day of Your Test
Okay, the day has finally arrived.
You have done what you could to prepare yourself for this two-wheeler driving test.
But wait, we have on-the-day tips, too.
Inhale, exhale, calm down
It’s normal to feel nervous. After all, getting your motorcycle license is a huge milestone!
But first things first, you have to ace your exam. And you can’t do that if you’re jittery.
So the best way to calm down is to do whatever relaxes you. For most people, it’s taking deep, slow breaths.
Breathe in slowly, breathe out slowly.
It’s also good to practice proper breathing exercises to nail this relaxation part down.
If you have other ways to calm down, like squeezing a stress ball or pacing the room, then, by all means, do it.
Remember, you always perform better with a calm mind.
Don’t forget the safety gear
Safety is cool. Also, it’s mandatory to wear proper gear in case of accidents, especially when starting.
Plus, wearing safety gear will earn you extra points during your test.
For helmets, you must wear one certified by the U.S. Department of Transportation to ensure maximum safety. It should have a snug fit and should have no cracks or defects.
For clothing, it’s best to wear a long sleeve jacket and pants with reflective material. Wearing protective clothing shields you from abrasions if you fall on your bike. It also protects you from sun/windburn.
For shoes, boots without laces are the ideal option.
Inspect!
You must never skip the essentials during your test. Yes, we’re talking about doing a safety inspection.
Check if your bike is working properly. These are some components that you need to inspect when doing a safety check:
- Headlights
- Brake lights
- Turn signals
- Horn
Ignore the cones
Sure, you’re not allowed to hit the cones in the test, but that doesn’t mean you have to tunnel your vision on them either.
When riding your motorcycle, the best way to be precise with your maneuvers is to always look ahead. Trust that you’ll be able to see the cones in your peripherals.
If you focus too much on the cones, then you might even lose your balance.
Your signals are there for a reason
Treat your test as if you’re driving on a highway with all the other vehicles. So always keep in mind to use signals and keep an eye out for imaginary traffic while conducting the test.
Doing so will earn you points. Make sure the examiner notices that you make an effort to observe traffic and use signals.
Wrap Up
So those were the two-wheeler driving test tips.
These tips are there to help you ace your driving test, so don’t ignore them.
And if you already forget, let’s give you a quick review:
- Get a good night’s rest
- Bring all the required documents
- Know what the two-wheeler driving test is like
- Practice, practice, practice
- Keep calm
- Wear safety gear
- Inspect your motorcycle
- Ignore the cones
- Use your signals
If you follow these tips, then it’s almost a GUARANTEE to pass on your first try.
Good luck!
And we hope this article has been a great help!