Which of the following riding techniques should you apply while riding a motorcycle on a dirt road with a sand setting bed?
Show the correct answer
Correct answer
A. Rising up with the legs bent and supported on footrests and balancing the body to keep the balance.
Explanation
This question is about the technique of riding a motorcycle on a sandy dirt road. You rise up on bent legs resting on the footrests and balance your body to keep your balance - answer A.
The Road Traffic Act requires you to adapt the way you ride to the condition of the road, and sand is one of the most difficult surfaces for a two-wheeler: the wheels sink, the front one floats and the rear one spins. Standing on the footrests with your knees bent, you transfer your weight low onto the frame instead of the seat, your legs absorb jolts, and the motorcycle can move under you; you correct your balance with your hips and shoulders when a wheel slides sideways. Sitting firmly on the seat (answer B) means that every jolt is passed to your body and the handlebars, and rigidly keeping to one speed does not let you respond with the throttle when the rear wheel starts to dig in - on sand you must keep your momentum and apply the throttle gently. Putting your feet down for support (answer C) at speed ends in a knee or ankle injury and takes away your ability to react. You ride in a low gear with a light, smooth throttle, a loose grip on the handlebars and your eyes looking far ahead.
Legal basis: Art. 19 para. 1 of the Road Traffic Act (Prawo o ruchu drogowym)