CORE 6
Mechanical emergencies
First action matters
Stabilize first
Test questions often give three actions that all sound useful. Choose the sequence that preserves control first: stabilize, reduce power smoothly, then leave the roadway when safe.
Tires + throttle
- TRAPFront flat: steering feels heavy.
- TRAPRear flat: the back jerks or sways side to side.
- BESTHold grips firmly, ease off throttle, and keep a straight course. If braking is required, gradually use the brake for the tire that is not flat — only if you are sure which tire failed. When slowed, move off, pull in the clutch, and stop.
- BESTStuck throttle: twist the throttle back and forth several times. If it remains stuck, operate the engine cut-off switch and pull in the clutch at the same time. Then move off the road and stop.
Wobble + power loss
- ABSOLUTEWobble: do not accelerate and do not brake. Grip firmly without fighting the bars. Gradually roll off the throttle. Move weight forward and down; leave the road when safe.
- RISKCommon wobble causes include poor loading, unsuitable accessories, or incorrect tire pressure.
- TRAPA slipping or broken chain/belt can lock the rear wheel and cause a skid. Breakage also produces an instant loss of rear-wheel power; roll off and brake to a stop.Why it matters: Slip: pull off and repair. Break: power to the rear disappears at once, and the chain can also grab and lock the rear. Do not mix this with a stuck throttle (cut-off + clutch).
- BESTEngine seizure is usually associated with low oil. Pull in the clutch, move off, stop, let it cool, and check/add oil as appropriate.
- BESTFlying object: keep eyes on the road and hands on the bars; pull over only when safe. Animal: avoid it if safely possible, but do not leave your lane into traffic. Dog chase: approach slowly, then speed up past the animal — never kick, never stop in the lane.
- BESTLeaving the pavement: confirm the shoulder is firm, signal (drivers will not expect you to slow), check mirrors and the blind spot, get well off the road, and park carefully — soft or sloped ground fights the kickstand. Returning: check, signal, and merge; avoid a sharp angle against the pavement edge.