ONTARIO M1 TEST RULES 02

If a motorcycle does not have indicator signals, or if they fail to work, motorcyclists must use proper hand signals to communicate with other drivers on the road.

Maintain a firm grip on the handlebars. Reduce speed by closing the throttle. Do not apply the brakes, since that only makes the motorcycle more difficult to control. Never increase speed when the motorcycle is wobbling.

Positioning the motorcycle across the parking spot helps ensure that the motorcyclist has a good view of the road and that the motorcycle is visible to other vehicles on the road, especially if the road has numerous cars parked on both sides.

Before changing gears, disengage the clutch and coordinate the movements of the clutch and throttle for smooth gear changes.

Be careful. Drive slowly, adjusting your speed for the situation. Maintain maximum distance between your motorcycle and the other vehicle by moving to the right lane if possible, or by stopping if necessary.

Motorcyclists should only drive in a right or left lane in order to have a blocking position. Blocking positions are important because they prevent other drivers from driving too close to the motorcycle.

The M licensing process is graduated, much like the G license. It begins with a written test for the M1. The M1 exit test to get an M2 may be attempted after 60 days, and must be successfully completed before the 90-day expiration date or a new M1 license must be obtained (M1 tests may be attempted before 60 days when they are offered as part of a Ministry-approved safety course). Application for the M license is not permitted earlier than 20 months after obtaining an M1 license provided a safety course is taken, hence a total of 22 months. If a safety course is not taken, a waiting period of 24 months is required.

Paying attention to and keeping track of surroundings enables motorcyclists to drive defensively and reduces the likelihood of the unexpected, which can cause accidents.

By maintaining a following distance of 2 seconds, motorcyclists have enough time to react and change course if necessary should a problem arise.

Communicating well with other drivers is essential for safe driving. In any given situation, motorcyclists must use appropriate methods to communicate with other drivers; in most cases, more than one method must be used to communicate well.

Since the degree of damage experienced in motorcycle accidents is greater than with other motor vehicles, it is essential to perform a thorough inspection of the motorcycle to ensure that it is safe to drive.

It is important to look far ahead to be prepared for potential problems. This gives drivers more time to react, helps prevent panic, and reduces the likelihood of rash decisions that could result in accidents.

Moving from the blocking position toward the center of the lane helps maintain a safe distance from passing vehicles. By keeping out of harm's way in this manner, motorcyclists are safer and less likely to be struck by passing vehicles.

Lights come on automatically with newer models, but the lights must be switched on manually for older motorcycles. Keep headlights and taillights switched on at all times for greater visibility, and so that you do not need to switch them on while driving.

Driving in rainy conditions is dangerous. There is less traction on slippery roads, and rain hampers visibility; these facts result in motorcyclists having less control, which increases the risk of accidents. Always drive safely, using smooth, careful movements.

Checking mirrors frequently helps motorcyclists keep track of what is going on around them so they avoid surprises. It is essential to check the mirrors regularly during poor weather, when visibility is poor, on highways and while slowing down or turning.

If a motorcycle does not have indicator signals, or if they fail to work, motorcyclists must use proper hand signals to communicate with other drivers on the road.

Motorcyclists should always apply both brakes smoothly at the same time. This ensures safer, more efficient stopping. Do not apply the brakes in a sudden, jerky manner.

Lane splitting refers to driving between vehicles in adjacent lanes (ie. along the white line between lanes). It is very dangerous because the slightest shift in position from any of the other vehicles can result in an accident since there is very little room for the motorcyclist to maneuver.

Remain a good distance from large vehicles, especially when they are about to turn. Large vehicles make wide turns, and have large blind spots. Moving into the space that opens up as a large vehicle swings out to make its turn could result in the motorcyclist being hit, since the driver of the large vehicle will most likely not be able to see the motorcycle.

Reducing speed as the motorcycle approaches the intersection gives the motorcyclist time to assess the intersection and react in case of other drivers' errors.

Always keep both feet on the footrests for better control. Motorcyclists must not drag their feet on the ground at any time while driving.

Avoid other drivers' blind spots whenever possible. Use caution when you have no choice but to drive in someone's blind spot. If possible, avoid having other vehicles drive in your blind spot: slow down, speed up, or change lanes as the situation warrants.

Any type of drug, illegal or prescribed, can impair motorcyclists' ability to drive. Fatigue slows reflexes, and can make driving dangerous. Consuming alcohol makes driving a motorcycle especially dangerous.

Slowing down and maintaining a greater distance from vehicles in front is advised, especially when roads are wet and intense glare hampers other drivers' ability to identify a motorcycle amongst all the traffic.

Applying forward pressure on the handlebar of the turning side causes the motorcycle to lean, while pushing on the other handlebar and applying the throttle causes the motorcycle to straighten and finish the turn.

A motorcycle training course designed and/or authorized by the Ministry will ensure new drivers learn the necessary skills and develop the know-how to drive safely. Most courses provide the Level 1 exit test as part of the course and reduce the length of time needed at the M2 level.