Michigan Motorcycle Permit Practice Test

In Michigan an endorsement issued for a three-wheeled motorcycle (other than an autocycle) is restricted to three-wheel riding (restriction code 20) and does not allow riding a two-wheeled motorcycle.

Michigan's rider skills test can be attempted only twice, whether on a two-wheel or three-wheel motorcycle; the second attempt can't be scheduled until at least 24 hours after the first and must be finished before the TIP expires. Engine stalls are scored during the whole test.

A motorcycle passenger in Michigan must wear an approved helmet unless at least 21 and covered by at least $20,000 in first-party medical benefits in addition to the operator's required insurance. A moped operator under 19 must wear a helmet, and any required helmet must meet U.S. DOT standards.

A helmet should fit comfortably but snugly: a loose one can lift in the wind or come off in a fall, and a tight one can cause sores or headaches.

To mount, stand on the left side, grasp both handgrips, squeeze the front brake so the motorcycle won't roll, swing your right leg over, sit, straighten the motorcycle and raise the side stand with your foot.

To start: turn the fuel valve and ignition on, shift to neutral (rock the motorcycle to be sure it rolls freely rather than trusting the light), turn the cut-off switch on, use the choke for cold starts and squeeze the clutch, then press the starter without using the throttle.

Two risks set motorcycling apart: vulnerability, because motorcycles give less crash protection and lack a car's stability (so wear protective gear), and visibility, because their small size makes them harder to see and other drivers may not be looking for them.

Traffic-activated signals can be troublesome because their sensor may not detect a motorcycle; for the best chance of being detected, stop where the sensors are, which are usually visible in the road surface.

Stopping quickly and swerving are the two critical crash-avoidance skills.

Many crash-involved riders enter curves too fast and can't finish them.

To carry a passenger, the motorcycle needs a seat big enough for both of you, with the passenger behind you, never in front, whatever their age; passenger footrests so they don't fall off and pull you off; and a secure strap or solid handholds (or they can hold your waist, hips or belt).

When riding with a passenger: ride a little slower, especially in curves, corners and over bumps; start slowing earlier, since you may need more brake pressure; wait for larger gaps to cross, enter or merge with traffic; and keep a larger space cushion when stopping or slowing.