Motorcycle theory course

April 3, 2025

Driver's license

Riding a motorcycle is demanding, both as a hobby and for everyday use. Unfortunately, statistics show that riding a motorcycle is significantly more dangerous than driving a car. By focusing on defensive and safe behavior during training, good driving skills can be developed.

In the first chapter, we start by looking at the accident figures for motorcyclists in recent years and what measures you yourself can take to actively improve safety. We will then look at the different driver's license classes and how the training is structured in the different motorcycle classes. We conclude by looking at the conditions for practice driving and the conditions for obtaining a class A driver's license.

This chapter is about:

1.1 Traffic and accidents
1.2 Driving license classes
1.3 The training
1.4 Conditions for practice driving

1. Driver's license

1.1 Traffic and accidents (1/2)

Traffic and accidents

Risk and conflicts of interest

A motorcyclist has a risk of injury that is far higher than a car driver's risk of injury.

Large, powerful bikes with fast acceleration can be challenging to ride and if you have little experience, these forces can quickly be stressful. This can in turn lead to dangerous situations where you as the rider do not have full control. Even a light motorcycle can have much greater forces than you might imagine. Compared to a moped, the difference is enormous.

Conflicts of interest that arise between motorcyclists and other road users can also lead to dangerous situations. Rapid acceleration, quick overtaking, reckless driving and careless behavior often create irritation and fear in the average road user.

Accidents

Compared to other road user groups, the number of traffic accidents involving motorcycles is relatively high. Accidents where the motorcyclist is alone, such as skids and rollovers, are a common occurrence in accident statistics for motorcyclists. Very often, high speed is a contributing factor to the accidents.

The risk of an accident with a motorcycle is around 35% higher than with a car. If you ride a light motorcycle, the risk of an accident is a full 75% higher than with a car.

In 2020, 20 people died on motorcycles in traffic. Your challenge as a "fresh" motorcyclist is to make sure you don't become part of this statistic!

Prevent accidents

What can you do yourself to reduce the risk of accidents?

As a driver of a vehicle, you largely choose the accident risk you expose yourself to. Perhaps the most important revelation for you as a new motorcyclist is that you have many limitations and that you must always take these limitations into account. As you gain more competence as a driver, the limitations will decrease and you will become a safer driver.

Elements that lead to increased competence

Driving technique - You must have sufficient driving technique to be able to implement tactical choices you make while driving.
Driving strategy - You must have a driving strategy that is well thought out and that allows you to avoid ending up in dangerous situations.
Interaction - You must know the rules for interaction between road users and appear predictable to other road users.
Limitations - You need to know your own limitations and adjust your driving based on them. Self-awareness is important!
Automate - By practicing these things enough, they will eventually become more automated - and you will do them without having to think.

Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act states that:

Everyone must travel with consideration and be alert and cautious so that no danger arises or damage is caused and so that other traffic is not unnecessarily obstructed or disturbed.
Not taking into account one's own limitations would be a clear violation of this paragraph.

If you follow Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act, you expose yourself and your passenger to a lower risk of accidents.

1. Driver's license

1.2 Driving license classes (1/2)

Motorcycle driving license classes

There are 3 driver's license classes for motorcycles.

Class A1 - Light motorcycle

The age limit for obtaining a light motorcycle license is 16 years.
The engine must not have a displacement of more than 125 cc and the engine power must not exceed 11 kW.
There are also requirements for the ratio between engine power and weight. It must not be greater than 0.1 kW / kg
With a light motorcycle driving license, you are also allowed to drive a moped, a three-wheeled motorcycle (max. 15 kW) and a moped car (if the unladen weight of the moped car is over 150 kg, you must be 18 years old).

Class A2 - Medium motorcycle

The age limit for obtaining a driving license for a medium-heavy motorcycle is 18 years.
The engine power should not be more than 35 kW.
There are also requirements for the ratio between engine power and weight. It must not be greater than 0.2 kW/kg, and must not be trimmed down to more than half of the original power.
You can also drive the following vehicles with this driver's license: moped, approved motorcycle trailer and three-wheeled motorcycle with a maximum power of 15 kW.

Class A - Heavy motorcycle

To take class A directly you must be 24 years old.
You can also drive a moped, snowmobile (if your driver's license was issued before 1 July 2006) and a motorcycle trailer. You can also drive a three-wheeled motorcycle with an output of over 15 kW if you are over 21 years old.
If you take a step-by-step training, i.e. class A2 at the age of 18 and complete a 7-hour course and gain 2 years of experience with class A2, you can take class A when you are 20 years old.

Class A1, A2 and A

A review of the different A-classes.

3- and 4-wheel motorcycle/ATV

3-wheel motorcycle

With a class A driving license, you are allowed to drive a 3-wheel motorcycle with an output of over 15 kW if you are 21 years old. If you only have a class A1 or A2 driving license, the maximum output is 15 kW regardless of your age.

4-wheel motorcycle

Today, so-called ATVs with 4 wheels are more widespread. These motorcycles can be driven legally with a class B driving license. The rules for driving an ATV are different in many countries in Europe, so check the regulations before driving such a vehicle abroad.

Tipping hazard

Riding an ATV has caused a number of special traffic accidents. Many people believe that this is a steady and stable vehicle. Unfortunately, an ATV is unstable and can easily tip over. There are special techniques that apply when riding both 3- and 4-wheel motorcycles.

Other driver's license classes

The curriculum also requires that you have knowledge of what the different driver's license classes allow you to drive.

Class A, A1 and A2 – motorcycle, moped and 3-wheel motorcycle
Class AM – moped
Class B - car, four-wheel motorcycle, moped
Class C – truck
Class C1 – light truck
Class D – bus
Class D1 – minibus
Class E – trailer, where for example CE is a truck with a trailer
Class S – snowmobile
Class T – tractor

1. Driver's license

1.3 The training (1/2)

Training - Steps 1 to 3

Step-by-step training

The motorcycle training is structured step by step in 4 stages and a large part of the theory and driving is common to all three motorcycle classes.

Step 1 - Basic traffic course

If you do not have a previous driver's license and are between 15 and 24 years old, you must complete a basic traffic course.
If you have a driver's license for another vehicle (for example, a moped, tractor or car), you do not have to take the basic traffic course again. You must then bring your driver's license as proof during the practice drive if you are under 25 years of age.
If you are over 25 years old, you only need the first aid section and the dark driving section from the basic traffic course.

Step 2 - Basic vehicle skills – classes A1, A2 and A

All theory at this level is common to all three classes.
Basic courses for classes A1, A2 and A are mandatory for students and must be completed as a 3-hour course at a driving school. This course must be completed before you can start practical training at a driving school.
Practical training in the use of the motorcycle - the number of hours will depend on the student's experience and how quickly you master the various objectives in the curriculum for this level.
At the end of Stage 2, you will go through a mandatory stage assessment.

Step 3 - Traffic competence and driving technique

All theory is common to all three classes - with the exception of "Safety course in precise driving techniques classes A2 and A" and "Safety course in class A1".
There is no minimum number of hours beyond the mandatory training. The number of hours will depend on the student's experience and how quickly the student masters the various objectives in stage 3.
In class A2 and class A, a 4-hour safety course in precise driving technique is mandatory: - 1 hour of theory / 3 hours of driving on the track.
Mandatory tutoring session after this step.

Training - Step 4

Step 4

In stages 1 to 3, theory and driving are completely similar between classes. In stage 4, theory and driving differ somewhat from class to class:

Step 4 - Road Safety Course Class A1:

4 hours of driving in varied traffic and road environments.
1 hour planning/summary.

Step 4 - Road Safety Course Class A2:

4 hours of driving in varied traffic and road environments.
1 hour planning/summary.

Step 4 - Road Safety Course Class A:

5 hours of driving in varied traffic and road environments.
At least 1 hour introduction and preparation.
At least 1 hour summary.
The remaining time (1 hour) is distributed based on the student's needs.

Driver's license extension

Extension of driving license from A1 to A2:

If you have a minimum of 2 years of driving license in class A1, you can extend to class A2 without taking the driving test again. To extend your driving license from A1 to A2 without taking the driving test, you must complete:

2 hour extension course.
4 hours of safety course in precise driving techniques.
5 hour road safety course class A2.

If you do not have 2 years of driving license in class A1, you can also extend to class A2, but must then undergo the following training:

Step assessment step 3.
4 hours of safety course in precise driving techniques.
5 hour road safety course class A2.
Pass your driving test.

Extension of driving license from A1 to A:

If you want to extend your driving license directly from class A1 to class A, you must complete the following training:

Step assessment step 3.
4 hours of safety course in precise driving techniques.
8 hour road safety course class A.
Pass your driving test.

Extension of driving license from A2 to A:

If you want to extend your driving license directly from class A2 to class A, you must complete the following training:

Mandatory 7-hour extension course.

1. Driver's license

1.4 Conditions for practice driving (1/2)

Practice driving

Motorcycle driving training includes both mandatory lessons and courses. The driving schools have special motorcycles and specially trained instructors to make your training as safe as possible. In addition to practice driving at the driving school, you are allowed to conduct practice driving privately under certain conditions.

Private practice run:

The accompanying person must be 25 years of age or older and have had a motorcycle driving license for at least 5 consecutive years.
Both you and your companion must have communication and a yellow reflective vest with a red L.
You can start practice driving for class A1 from the age of 15.
You can start practice driving for class A2 from the age of 16.
You can start practice driving for class A from the age of 22.

Ban period - consequences of illegal practice driving

Getting a driving ban means that you get a postponement of the time when you can get a driver's license. This means that you cannot drive as long as you are under a driving ban. There are several offenses that can lead to you being banned; for example, if you are caught by the police for illegal practice driving, you risk at least a 6-month driving ban.

If you have not yet turned 18, the blocking period will not begin to run until you actually turn 18.
For more serious offenses, the suspension period will always be at least the same as the period for which your driving license would have been revoked if you had had a driving license in the first place. If the police find it appropriate, the suspension period can be set even longer.
You are not allowed to practice driving if you are under a curfew unless you receive special permission from the police.

2. The motorcycle

2.0 Introduction

The motorcycle

The Vehicle Regulations set requirements for the equipment and technical condition of a motorcycle. You should be able to know whether the motorcycle is in a safe and proper condition before riding. In this chapter, we will look at the various components of a motorcycle and how to check that they are working properly.

This chapter is about:

2.1 Engine, exhaust and fuel systems
2.2 Drivetrain, transmission, frame and steering
2.3 Wheels/tires, lights and supports
2.4 Brakes
2.5 Daily check
2.6 Self-weight

Decent condition

If a vehicle is to be used, it must be in a safe condition. Safe condition means that the vehicle is safe to drive. For example, if you have a serious brake failure or the brake lights are not working, the vehicle is not in a safe condition.

The vehicle may be in good condition even if it is not in proper condition. For example, you can drive a car with a broken headlight during the day and in good light, even if such a car is not in proper condition. But – fix the headlight as soon as you can.

Regulatory condition

A vehicle being in proper condition means that it meets the requirements of the vehicle regulations. That is, that all functions work and are as they should be – for example, lights, tire pressure and mirrors.

2. The motorcycle

2.1 Engine, exhaust and fuel system (1/2)

Engine

Internal combustion engine

Although there are more and more electric motorcycles on the market, the vast majority of motorcycles are still powered by an internal combustion engine. An internal combustion engine works by igniting gaseous fuel in a cylinder. When the gas ignites, it expands and moves the piston in the cylinder. It is this movement that causes the engine to propel the vehicle forward.

We have two types of engines - two-stroke engine and four-stroke engine.

Four-stroke engine.

Four-stroke engines

The most common type of engine on motorcycles is the four-stroke engine. The four-stroke engine is most commonly used because it is more fuel efficient than the two-stroke engine. It has more moving parts and is therefore a more expensive engine to manufacture. A four-stroke engine usually runs on low-octane unleaded gasoline.

The engine oil is filled in a separate oil tank. The same oil also lubricates the gearbox.

Two-stroke engines

Some light motorcycles have a two-stroke engine instead of a four-stroke engine. The two-stroke engine has a simpler design and is cheaper to manufacture. It also usually weighs less.

The two-stroke engine uses a separate 2-stroke oil that must be topped up at regular intervals. A motorcycle with a two-stroke engine will usually have its own oil filler for the gearbox.

Engine lubrication and cooling

Engine oil

There are many moving parts in the engine. To reduce friction, wear and overheating, the engine is lubricated with oil. To prevent the oil temperature from getting too high, the oil is usually cooled in a radiator and by passing the oil through the coldest parts of the engine.

The oil's ability to lubricate and cool decreases over time, which is why it must be changed periodically.

If the oil pressure drops significantly, it can lead to engine failure. The oil warning light will illuminate when the oil pressure is too low or when there is too little oil. If the oil light illuminates while driving, it is important to stop as quickly as possible to check and possibly top up the oil or call a tow truck.

Air-cooled and water-cooled engine

A lot of heat is created in the cylinders when the engine is running. The cylinders must therefore also be cooled. This is done with water cooling, air cooling, fuel injection and engine oil circulation.

An air-cooled engine has cooling fins on the cylinders, so that the cylinders have the largest possible surface area. This will allow the outside temperature to cool the cylinders sufficiently as long as the motorcycle is moving.

A water-cooled engine has a system of coolant that is directed to a radiator for cooling. The radiator has a fan that turns on at high temperatures and therefore does not rely on movement for cooling. A water-cooled engine is also quieter than an air-cooled engine, but requires more maintenance.

Cooling fins

The cooling fins are located around the cylinder and are designed to maximize the surface area. The fins are placed horizontally so that the air flows as best as possible between the fins.

Fuel system

The fuel system on a motorcycle consists of three main parts.

Tank
Petrol tap
Transmissions/hoses

The fuel system must be checked for leaks from time to time. Any leaks can be dangerous. Where fuel hoses connect the tank, tap and carburetor, there should always be hose clamps.

Traditional petrol tap. See the markings for: ON – OFF – RES

When the fuel tank runs out, the engine will first misfire and then stall. This is why there is often a manual position on the fuel tap where you can extract a small amount of fuel so that you can get to a gas station.

Exhaust system

The motorcycle's exhaust system must be leak-free and the noise level must meet applicable requirements. Some motorcycles also have a catalytic converter on the exhaust system. The catalytic converter prevents and limits the emission of harmful gases from the engine.

If you make changes to the exhaust system, this may lead to changes in engine power, noise and fuel consumption. Changes to the exhaust system that result in changed noise levels and power must be approved by the Norwegian Public Roads Administration.

Safety check of engine, exhaust system and fuel system

Safety check - engine

Check the oil level and look for any leaks.
On air-cooled bikes: Check that the cooling fins are adequately cleaned so that they function properly.
On water-cooled engines: Check that the radiator is not clogged with dirt and dust.

Safety check - exhaust system

Check for any leaks. Soot on the outside of the exhaust pipes may indicate a hole/leak.
Check that the sound level is not too loud (a high sound level indicates a hole in the exhaust system).

Safety check - fuel system

Check for leaks in the system by smelling and visually inspecting the fuel hoses (from tank to carburetor). Check that hose clamps are working and not rusty.

Where is the leak coming from?

The theory test and the run-up

During the run-in, you will begin with a safety check where you will be given one practical task and one knowledge-based task. You will be asked to check, for example, lights, brakes or warning lights. You will also have to explain what could be the cause or consequence if something is wrong.

It is also important to know this for the theory test, where you may be asked various technical questions related to the motorcycle's structure and functionality.

2. The motorcycle

2.2 Drivetrain, power transmission, frame and steering (1/3)

Chain

On a motorcycle, power is transmitted from the engine to the wheel via a chain, timing belt or cardan shaft.

Chain drive is popular because it is a simple design with little power loss. The chain is driven by a sprocket/gear in the motor and on the rear wheel. Since the chain is not built in, it is just like on a regular pedal bike, subject to wear and tear. It therefore needs to be lubricated and adjusted frequently.

It is important that the chain is neither too tight nor too loose. When tightening the chain, make sure that you tighten it equally on each side of the wheel. Use the measurement marks to check this. If you do not tighten the chain equally on both sides, the tire may be tilted in the direction of travel. It is important that the tires are straight behind each other so that the wheels "track" (see tracking). This will improve the driving characteristics.

Check the slack in the chain, it must not be more than 2-3 cm.

When tightening the chain, remember to tighten on both sides of the wheel.

Chain maintenance

Newer chains are made with O-rings. This means that the chain comes from the manufacturer and is lubricated on the inside with grease. The O-ring is to keep the grease in place while riding. You then only need to use chain spray that lubricates the outside of the chain. Make sure you use a chain spray that is approved for O-ring chains.

If you are going to lubricate the chain, it should be clean, and if you are using standard oil for lubrication, it should also be done after riding, because then the chain is hot. Newer lubricants contain solvents, and then it is not so important that the chain is hot when you lubricate it.

To preserve your chain for as long as possible and to keep it soft and flexible, you should always avoid high-pressure washing your motorcycle. Also, do not use high-pressure washing on the engine, fuel system and cooling system. This can cause damage to these parts.

Tracking

Tracking means that the wheels should be firmly attached and aligned straight behind each other. If a motorcycle or moped has been in an accident, the main frame may become warped. Then the front and rear wheels will not be aligned.

Other types of power transmission

Timing belt drive

Some motorcycles are driven by a timing belt instead of a chain. The advantages of a timing belt drive include that the timing belt has a longer life and requires less maintenance than a regular chain. In addition, the timing belt creates less noise than a regular chain. Information on maintenance can be found in the instruction manual.

Cardan drive

Some motorcycles are driven by a cardan shaft. This is an advanced design compared to chain and timing belt drives. Cardan shaft drives are quiet and relatively maintenance-free. Maintenance consists of periodic oil changes. You should also check for oil leaks. The main disadvantage of cardan shaft drives is that they involve a certain loss of power.

2. The motorcycle

2.2 Drivetrain, power transmission, frame and steering (2/3)

Frame and rear frame/swingarm

Frame

In the Vehicle Regulations, the frame is considered one of the two main components of a motorcycle (the other main component is the engine). The engine, wheels, handlebars, etc. are attached to the frame.

The frame must withstand heavy loads and is crucial for safety and stability. If a frame becomes warped after an accident, the front and rear wheels will no longer be aligned, and the motorcycle will "track" incorrectly. A sign of such warping is that the motorcycle will turn more easily to one side than the other.

Rear frame/swingarm

The motorcycle's rear frame/swingarm is attached to the main frame. Due to heavy loads, slack may occur in the attachment to the main frame. Check for slack by pulling the rear frame/swingarm sideways.

Looseness in bearings and fasteners on the frame can cause wobbling which can cause us to lose control.

Wobbling

Wobbling refers to uncontrolled lateral oscillations of the motorcycle. It can typically occur as a result of technical problems, such as looseness in the steering bearing, incorrect tracking or other conditions that can change the balance of the motorcycle (load, windshields, etc.). If you experience incipient wobbling, you must reduce speed immediately so that the situation does not get out of control.

Front fork and shock absorbers

The front fork

The steering on a motorcycle should be precise and keep the motorcycle directional stable. The front fork is attached to the main frame with a steering bearing.

Wear can cause play in the headset bearings, which can lead to shaking, unstable steering and wobbling. To check for play, stand over the saddle and hold the brake while trying to move the handlebars forward and backward. If there is no play, the handlebars should not move back and forth beyond the movement of the shock absorber.

Front fork and attachment to front wheel.

The shock absorbers

The front fork also has shock absorbers. These are designed to absorb impacts and shocks and dampen the suspension. Good shock absorbers are important for driving comfort and ensure the best possible grip. If you push the handlebars and shock absorbers together with the front brake engaged, you will notice whether the shock absorber is working. If the motorcycle rocks when you let go, something may be wrong. For the safest possible ride, the motorcycle must be well maintained. All bearings and mounts must be well secured. The wheels must be firmly attached and aligned.

Many motorcycles have an external spring on the rear shock absorber. It can usually be tightened and loosened depending on the weight of the motorcycle. If you are riding with a passenger or a lot of luggage, tighten the spring.

On this bike, the spring can be adjusted to adjust the resistance.

Wobbling

2. The motorcycle

2.3 Wheels/tires, lights and supports (1/2)

Wheels and tires

Wheels and tires should ensure that you have the best possible contact with the road. The motorcycle's wheels are attached to the front fork and the rear fork/swingarm.

deck

Regular motorcycle tires must have a tread pattern and it is important that the tread depth is deep enough. The minimum requirement is 1.6 millimeters. The tire pattern ensures that water and mud are drained into the grooves so that a larger part of the tire's surface can touch the road through the water. If you are going to drive on winter roads, the winter tires should have a deeper pattern. The requirement for tread depth is then 3 millimeters. Some people also choose to use studs in their winter tires.

Hose

Please note that if you have inner tubes in your tires, too little air can cause the tube to move in the tire. This can cause the valve to be tilted. This can lead to unwanted air leakage.

Light

It is mandatory to use lights 24/7 when riding a motorcycle. During the day, the motorcycle's lights help you to be seen better. In the dark, you see better with the right lights.

How far should the light shine?

The dipped beam should illuminate the road at least 40 meters ahead.
The high beam should illuminate the road at least 100 meters ahead.

The rear of the motorcycle must have a tail light, brake light, license plate light and a red reflector. The reflector must be square or round.

Less light

Although both the low beam and high beam on a motorcycle should shine as far forward as on a car, the motorcycle's light produces a much smaller cone of light than the car because the car has two headlights with a distance between them.

Supports

All motorcycles must have at least one support for parking. We call them side supports and main, double or center supports.

Which of the supports you want to use is up to you, but it is most common to put the motorcycle down on the side stand. When using the main stand / double stand, you are completely dependent on the surface being completely flat.

Putting the motorcycle on the kickstand requires some technique, especially on heavy bikes. You should not "pull" the bike backwards, but step down and lift it up.

2. The motorcycle

2.4 Brakes (1/2)

Brakes

The motorcycle has a front brake and a rear brake. The front brake, which is the motorcycle's main brake, has the greatest effect and is operated with a lever on the handlebars. The rear brake is operated with a foot pedal. It is important that you can check that the brakes are working properly before riding.

Two different braking systems are used on motorcycles: disc brakes and drum brakes .

Disc brake

The disc brake is hydraulic and is considered to be the most effective brake. Disc brakes located on the front wheel receive good cooling from the air when the motorcycle is in motion. By pressing the lever, brake fluid is pressed down to the brakes where the brake pads are pressed against the disc and stop the wheel.

A big advantage of the disc brake is that it is self-adjusting. It will follow the disc as it wears. You can easily check wear on the brake pad itself by seeing that the wear marks in the brake pad are still visible. You can also check the level of brake fluid in the sight glass on the brake fluid reservoir.

The disadvantage of the open disc brake solution is that it is particularly exposed to water and mud, which can cause the brakes to engage a bit unevenly.

Drum brake

Some motorcycles are equipped with drum brakes. Drum brakes are enclosed and are not easily exposed to water and mud.

The drum brake is a mechanical brake. This means that the force from the brake lever is transmitted to the brakes by a cable or rod. Here, wear will occur in the cable and in the transmissions on the rod. Since the drum brake is closed, it is more difficult to check wear. You can see it on a gauge mark on the drum, or on the angle between the brake lever and the rod. Since the drum brake is mechanical, you need to adjust it regularly.

Disc brakes and drum brakes are often combined. In this case, the disc brake is used at the front and the drum brake at the rear. The reason for this is that the disc brake can withstand the greatest load/braking.

Front drum brake.

Safety check brakes

You can check the brakes as follows:

The hand-operated brake lever must withstand a force equivalent to at least 50 kp.
The foot-operated brake lever must withstand a force equivalent to at least 100 kp.
A pressure test to check that the brakes can withstand an emergency brake is done at full brake pressure for about five seconds. You should feel firm resistance and the lever/pedal should not give in.
You should achieve full braking effect before the lever/pedal has covered 2/3 of the entire travel.
If you have a drum brake, check the angle between the brake lever and the brake rod. It should not exceed 90 degrees when fully braking.

On some motorcycles, you can check the brake fluid level in the sight glass on the handlebars.

kp

Kilopond is a term from physics. A pressure of 1 kilopond (kp) is in practice the same as the pressure from a 1 kg weight.

kp

Kilopond is a term from physics. A pressure of 1 kilopond (kp) is in practice the same as the pressure from a 1 kg weight.

The brakes

Front and rear brake requirements

2. The motorcycle

2.5 Daily check (1/2)

Daily check

Daily checks of your motorcycle are important for your safety and the safety of others. You should therefore make it a regular routine to carry out the following checks before you go out riding:

Make sure you have enough air in your tires.
Check that the wheel nut/pin is tight.
Check for any leaks, check under the bike for oil dripping there.
Check the petrol and oil levels.
Check the slack in the chain.
Check the brakes for leaks, pressure test.
Check that all lights are working.

Don't forget your driver's license

You must always carry your driver's license when riding a motorcycle. You are also required to have the motorcycle's vehicle registration certificate, Part 1, with you while riding.

2. The motorcycle

2.6 Self-weight (1/2)

Weight restrictions

It is important to pay close attention to the motorcycle's weight limitations. The consequence of carelessness can be that the motorcycle's handling characteristics change so much that an accident can occur.

The weight restrictions for the motorcycle can be found in the vehicle registration document, under point 8. The most important terms are:

Curb weight - the weight of the motorcycle in fully operational condition. Curb weight includes, among other things, permanently mounted equipment and full fuel tanks.
Maximum permissible payload the motorcycle is registered for (permitted payload tells you how much weight you can load the motorcycle with (sum of passengers and cargo)
Maximum permissible total weight the motorcycle is registered for (permitted total weight tells how much the motorcycle can weigh at most (the motorcycle's dead weight (including rider) + payload).
Maximum permissible total weight of a motorcycle trailer.
Maximum permissible total weight for the combination of motorcycle and trailer (such a combination is called a truck-trailer combination).

Example in the illustrated vehicle registration document

Permitted total weight: 350 kg. Net weight with driver 225 kg (driver weight is always calculated at 75 kg).

In the example, the permissible total weight is 350 kg. If we subtract the weight of the rider, there is still 125 kg for a passenger or luggage (this is called the permissible payload). As you can see, there are often limits to what you can take with you on your motorcycle.

Self-weight

The kerb weight of a vehicle is what the vehicle weighs. It is stated in the vehicle registration document.

Permitted payload

Permissible payload is equal to the difference between the permissible total weight and the vehicle's curb weight (including driver - 75 kg).

Payload therefore tells you how much cargo you can load your vehicle with.

Permitted payload (incl. passengers) is stated in the vehicle registration document.

Permitted total weight

The permissible gross vehicle weight is the maximum weight your vehicle can carry. It is stated in the vehicle registration document.

3. Driving equipment

3.0 Introduction

Driving equipment

As a motorcyclist, you must think about your own safety. Using the right riding equipment can help prevent or limit injuries in the event of an accident. Proper use of equipment will also keep the body dry and warm. With bright colors on the equipment, we are also more easily seen, which in turn will also reduce the risk of accidents.

This chapter is about:

3.1 Driving equipment
3.2 Helmet
3.3 Overalls, gloves and boots

3. Driving equipment

3.1 Driving equipment (1/2)

Mandatory driving equipment

The legal requirements for riding equipment are simple. The only riding equipment you must use is a helmet. In addition, you should always have a reflective vest easily accessible.

Helmet

The Regulation on the use of personal protective equipment when driving a motor vehicle requires that we wear an approved helmet when driving a motorcycle. This also applies to three- and four-wheeled motorcycles. In certain areas, such as parking lots, gas stations and garages, the requirement does not apply.

For the helmet to be approved, it must be e-marked.

Reflective vest

Regulations regarding the use of vehicles require that as a motorcycle rider you must always carry at least one reflective vest that must be stored in an easily accessible location (for example, under the seat).

The reflective vest should be worn when a person moves outside the vehicle during an emergency stop along the road.

The body's heat regulating points

To best protect yourself from the cold, you should know the body's heat-regulating points and where they are:

Ankle
Wrist
Neck/throat

By protecting these areas from drafts and cold, the body will stay warm and dry more easily. Hypothermia leads to stiff joints and muscles, and reduced responsiveness. Persistent cold drafts against the body's heat-regulating points can cause you to suffer muscle and joint injuries later, especially if you get into an accident.

3. Driving equipment

3.2 Helmet (1/2)

Helmet

The most important function of a helmet is to protect your head and face from injury. There are many different types of helmets. The type you should choose depends on how you plan to use your motorcycle.

Helmets are most often made of plastic or fiberglass, or combinations of these with carbon and Kevlar (composite fibers). The weight of a helmet varies from about 800 grams to almost 2 kilograms.

All helmets used must be E-approved . Therefore, look for the E-mark on your helmet. This marking shows that the helmet has been approved in tests. It is a great safety feature for you.

Remember to always fasten your helmet properly. A helmet that is not fastened at the chin strap can fall off during a rollover.

Helmet types

Half helmet

This is a helmet that provides good visibility to the sides and is also lightweight. The disadvantage of this type of helmet is that it does not protect the face to any great extent. Half helmets are widely used by moped and scooter riders and those who ride choppers.

Full face helmet

A full-face helmet is a closed helmet that provides better protection for the face than a half-helmet. A full-face helmet is especially comfortable when the speed increases as there is little noise in them. At low speeds, many people prefer to use a half-helmet because they provide better ventilation and visibility.

Many helmet manufacturers produce full-face helmets that are equipped with advanced ventilation systems. You can also wear the visor on the helmet in a half-open position. An important detail: On a clean visor, it is easier to avoid fogging, and rainwater also runs off the outside faster when it is clean. It is best to rinse the visor after each ride you have taken.

Cross helmet

The motocross helmet looks like a full-face helmet, but often lacks a visor. At the same time, the integral, the chin guard, is often attached with screws. It is important in the event of a fall on a motocross track that the helmet is soft at the front. If the front of the helmet is soft and gives way in the event of a fall forward, neck injuries are also reduced.

When there is no visor on a motocross helmet, special glasses are used instead to prevent the eyes from being exposed to insects, stone chips, dust, etc.

Opening helmet

An open-face helmet is a helmet that is a combination of a half- and full-face helmet. Here, the front of the helmet can be opened.

It is widely used among motorcycle riders, especially those who also wear glasses. The helmet is easy to open so that you can talk, eat and drink without taking off the helmet. For those who wear glasses, the helmet is also easier to use when it can be taken off and on without touching the glasses. The disadvantage of such a helmet is that it is heavy and in the event of an accident the chance of neck injury will be increased.

3. Driving equipment

3.3 Overalls, gloves and boots (1/2)

Driving suit

As a motorcyclist, you have to think about safety. Riding equipment should prevent or limit injuries. At the same time, riding equipment can make you more visible in traffic.

Many equipment manufacturers develop different types of riding clothing, full suits and pants/jackets. The clothing is made either in leather or in textile fabric with Gore-Tex and Cordura. The clothing also has Kevlar threads for better safety.

Both types of riding clothing have safety protection on the elbows, shoulders, hips and knees.

In recent years, denim gear has also become increasingly popular. These are special pants with woven Kevlar and protective pads built in. The advantage of this type of gear is that it doesn't get too hot and is well ventilated.

Backrest

Some jackets/suits have a built-in back protector. You can also buy a separate back protector to improve your safety. Kidney belts can also be combined with a back protector.

Gloves and boots

Gloves

Leather gloves are useful. After all, it is the hands that usually hit the ground first in a fall. They should protect your hands from injury and keep them warm.

The gloves are made to also protect the hot spot on the wrist. Gloves are available in leather and Gore-Tex fabric. They are made both with and without thermal lining and some also have a waterproof membrane. Extra protection is often used on the knuckles and where there may be extra wear.

Boots

Motorcycle boots provide good protection against injuries and will keep your feet warm and dry. Remember that the footwear you choose for your legs should prevent foot and ankle injuries. Sandals, for example, are not suitable for this. A proper motorcycle boot provides extra protection over the ankles and toes.

In recent years, many different types of motorcycle boots have been introduced. Some are standard long boots, while other shorter versions are often used in warmer climates. What they all have in common is that they all have the right protection in the right places. Sneakers don't!

Other driving equipment

Racing equipment

Some people ride so-called R–bikes. These bikes are built for high speeds. Those who ride such bikes also often wear leather racing gear. These are suits that have reinforcements in important places such as the shoulder, elbow, hips and knees. The reinforcements are made so that they have extra protection for high speeds. In addition, a loose back protector is used. The gloves have extra protection on the knuckles and palm. Preferably in Kevlar and carbon. The same applies to the boots, which also have special protection on the foot.

Crossfit equipment

If you ride motocross, special equipment is used. Inside, either a protective suit or a body armor is used. Over this, a somewhat thinner jersey and pants are used. To increase the protection of the legs and feet, special boots with extra protection are used.

Cover

Even though the textiles are waterproof, covers are often used, both on suits, gloves and boots. Covers also keep the equipment cleaner and the outer fabric does not get so damp. The waterproof membrane also often has the property that when you take off the equipment when it is wet on the outside, it will quickly draw moisture inside when the clothes are put back on while they are wet.

Back brace protects the spine.

Airbag / airbag

Some motorcyclists want to protect themselves even more than just with their clothing. Airbag vests have become very popular. Airbag vests are reflective vests with built-in airbags that deploy if the rider falls off the motorcycle.

4. Driving technique

4.0 Introduction

Driving technique

Riding a motorcycle requires much more physical control from you as a driver than riding a car. In this chapter we look at basic techniques for riding a motorcycle safely and efficiently.

In this chapter you will read about:

Seating and anchoring
Turning
Braking in a corner
Steering command
Track selection
Driving with cargo and passengers
Driving in the rain

4. Driving technique

4.1 Anchoring and seating position (1/2)

Sitting position

Your sitting position affects steering, braking, directional stability, shock absorption, ground clearance and weight shift during acceleration. With a good anchoring as the starting point, it is easy to find a good sitting position.

If you have the wrong sitting position while riding, this could mean that you are unable to perform the maneuver you want in a situation, or that the bike is unable to do its job.

With a good sitting posture you achieve:

Best possible overview.
Best possible anchoring.
Less fatigue and wear.
Easier and more efficient operation of the controls.

When you first get on a motorcycle, stand on the footrests and sit straight down. Let your hands fall into place on the handlebars. Once you are on the motorcycle, make sure you find the various buttons and instruments before you ride off.

The seating position is different from bike to bike

The correct sitting position depends on both you and the motorcycle you are riding. On a sportbike, the sitting position is more forward than on a touring bike. On a cruiser, you sit even more back.

Good seating position on a light motorcycle.

Good seating position on a more "sporty" motorcycle.

Anchoring

The anchor points

When you want to be precise in your riding technique and especially when cornering, you need to have good contact with the motorcycle without clinging. The footpegs, saddle and tank are good anchor points. If you are aware of these points, you will be able to steer consciously and control your braking well.

To have a good anchorage you should drive with:

loose and idle arms
bend in the elbow joint
loose grip on the handlebars
body slightly bent forward
the rest of the body well anchored to the motorcycle
the balls of your toes resting on the foot pegs.

Driving position - small obstacles in the way

Stay seated

Sometimes you have to ride over small bumps, holes, depressions or objects in the road. To maintain control of your motorcycle in such a situation, you need to make sure you have a good grip on the footpegs. You can raise your butt slightly off the saddle and squeeze your knees against the tank, but keep your body seated. This will lower your center of gravity and your knees will act as shock absorbers, while also giving you good grip. When the bike rides over the objects in the road, you will have better control. At the same time, your body will remain calm, even if the bike jumps. This will help you regain control of your motorcycle more quickly and you won't have to hold on to the handlebars.

The arms

Remember - Don't ride with your arms stiff. You should let them hang relaxed, even when you're going over a small obstacle in the road. You'll lose control of your motorcycle more easily if your body isn't relaxed.

Bad asphalt can present challenges.

4. Driving technique

4.2 Turning (1/2)

Driving in a curve

When cornering, good footing is especially important. Your sitting position and driving technique are crucial for how you get through the corners.

When entering a corner, you will quickly notice the forces acting on you. One force that will pull you outwards in the corner is the cornering force. It is important that you know what to do when these forces act on the motorcycle. The cornering force increases with the square of the increase in speed. This means that even a small increase in speed has a large effect on the cornering forces.

Excessive swing force

A motorcycle does not give as clear a warning as a car when the limit is close in a bend. The motorcycle will usually remain on the road until the turning force becomes too great. A skid and rollover is usually the result.

The ideal turn

Many elements

The first few turns you take as a new driver are of course not perfect. Taking an ideal turn is one of those skills you develop through a lot of driving. Eventually, all the elements that go into an ideal turn will become automatic and you will execute them without thinking about them before and during the turn.

Before the turn:

Have a good sitting position with solid support.
Plan your location in the lane.
Adjust your speed by braking and selecting the right gear.
Figure out a pivot point - the point where you want to give steering command.
Look carefully through the bend and keep your eyes looking forward towards the exit or vanishing point of the bend.

In the bend:

Give precise steering command at the pivot point.
Sit relaxed with pressure on the outer foot peg.
Ensure proper gas control.
Keep your gaze on the vanishing point.
On the way out of the bend - calmly straighten the motorcycle by adjusting the throttle and steering command.

We will take a closer look at the sitting position, head position, steering command and throttle control.

Sitting position in a turn

When riding a corner, your riding position will affect how your motorcycle behaves. Sometimes you will need to change your riding position throughout a corner to counteract or amplify the impact of the cornering force on the motorcycle. We have three different riding positions that are used when riding a corner:

Lean along - This is the normal sitting position, which you use for most turns. The rider's body should follow the axis of the motorcycle. The head should be at an angle that keeps the eyes as horizontal as possible.

Lean in - This position is typically used for active riding. Lean in is also used when you can't lean the bike any further before it hits the ground. To achieve lean in, push your butt over the inside of the saddle and your body weight will give you more ground clearance and a smaller lean angle. Note that different motorcycles have different ground clearance when cornering.

When driving on gravel or other slippery surfaces, it is risky to lean in, as it increases the likelihood of a rollover.

Lean Out - This is a technique for quickly changing course when your speed is too low to lean the bike further into a turn. This position also gives you better balance if you start to slide your motorcycle.

Gaze and head position

Vision is important for your balance. We are used to seeing horizontally, meaning that our head position is straight in relation to the ground.

A rule of thumb when riding a motorcycle is to look where you are going - as far ahead as possible. This is called the vanishing point. If you look towards the ditch, you may end up in the ditch, if you look at the oncoming traffic you risk unconsciously moving too far to the left in your lane. If there is an obstacle in the road, you must look around the obstacle and not directly at it.

Keep your gaze towards the vanishing point.

Brake and turn

When braking hard, your head will often automatically drop slightly and you will lose balance on the bike. You must consciously counteract this by pushing your gaze up and forward.

This becomes even more important in turns. You must consciously keep your head so that your eyes are as horizontal as possible. This will give you better control and a clear view of the correct perspective. By looking far ahead towards the exit of the turn, you will automatically get your head in a good position in relation to the curvature of the turn.

Steering command

To swing

In order for a motorcycle to turn, it must be leaned over to the side you want to turn to. To achieve this, you can therefore lean your body over to the side you need to turn. However, this is a slow and imprecise way of turning, which results in long and loose turns. A better and more precise steering technique is to use steering command.

Steering command

To push a motorcycle through a turn, an evasive maneuver, or the like, you use steering command. Steering command means that you have to turn a little "opposite" for the bike to lean over (it is the leaning over of the bike that makes it turn).

When you enter a right turn and are about to follow it through, start by giving a short, precise push on the right side of the handlebar. The front wheel will steer to the left for a moment, while the rest of the motorcycle will lean to the right before turning right.

A large push is not required, a short, precise pressure on the steering column is enough - If you want to go right, push lightly on the right steering column. If you want to go left, push lightly on the left steering column.

By pushing lightly on the left handlebar, the motorcycle will steer to the left.

Correct speed in the turn

Gas control

By throttle control we mean how the rider controls the amount of throttle given through a turn, thereby stabilizing the motorcycle at the desired lean angle.

The gas volume

Release the throttle - If you release the throttle through the turn, the motorcycle will lean further down and turn tighter. The motorcycle will oversteer.
Give more throttle - If you increase the amount of throttle through the turn, the motorcycle will straighten up more and more, and the turn will become looser. The motorcycle will understeer.
Give just enough throttle - Something in between the previous two will help you drive an ideal turn. However, there will be situations where you will want to adjust through controlled throttle control.

Practice throttle control in turns.

How to turn with a motorcycle - steering command

4. Driving technique

4.3 Braking (1/2)

Heavy braking

As long as you have a good driving strategy and are aware of traffic, the need to brake suddenly is quite small. However, you must be prepared for unexpected events, as situations will arise where you will suddenly have to brake with all your might.

A motorcycle that is braked hard can easily become unstable and wobbly if the rider is not in control of the situation and has not practiced good braking technique. How you brake will depend on whether you are riding on a straight line or in a bend.

Hard braking on a straight line

Anchoring - Make sure to keep your knees firmly against the tank to ensure proper anchoring before braking.
Loose and idle arms - With stiff arms you lose control. Your legs, back and stomach should do the work of absorbing the forces that are in motion, not your arms.
Look straight ahead - Your gaze should be raised and you should look far ahead so that you maintain the best possible course.
Determined - You shouldn't slam on the brakes, but be soft and determined.
Maintain your sitting position - Wait to put your feet on the ground until the motorcycle has come to a complete stop.

Good anchoring is important when braking.

The front brake is the main brake.

Different types of motorcycles have different brake pressure distribution and some have automatic distribution. The correct braking technique therefore varies from bike to bike, but remember that the front brake should be your main brake.

Difference between a racing bike and a chopper

There is a difference between a racing bike and a chopper when it comes to the braking distribution/effect on the rear wheel. A chopper has more weight on the rear wheel and thus often has better grip for the rear brake.

Braking in a corner

Find the right speed before the turn

Of course, it's best to do your braking before you start the turn. But sometimes situations arise during a turn that require you to slow down quickly.

What happens if you try to brake hard in a corner is that the motorcycle tries to straighten up and wants to steer out of the corner. Using the right technique, you will maintain the correct turning curve throughout the corner. You should practice this so that you do the right things automatically, if you suddenly have to brake in a corner.

Hard braking in a corner

Vanishing point - Let your gaze follow the vanishing point throughout the turn.
Soft - You should brake softly, but at the same time make sure you brake firmly.
Steering Command - To prevent the bike from straightening up and taking you out of the curve, you should use steering command. In a left turn, you push on the left handlebar, and in a right turn, you push on the right handlebar. Done correctly, the motorcycle will then maintain its position through the turn, while you brake.
Straighten up - Before you come to a complete stop, make sure your motorcycle is straight up so you don't tip over into the turn.

Different substrates

If the surface is slippery in the bend, you need to be extra gentle when braking so that you don't skid. Avoid panicking and giving in to the temptation to brake hard right in front of an obstacle in the bend - you will quickly lose control.

On gravel, you can also easily skid the rear wheel if you have to brake hard during the turn.

Proficiency test

The run-up

In the chapter on the construction of the motorcycle, we saw that you used the technical knowledge about the motorcycle, both for the theory test and for the run-in. The same applies to the driving technique. After you have completed the safety check during the run-in, you will go through a skills test where you will solve five tasks inside an enclosed area. Each task must be completed twice.

Proficiency test

1 - Crawling and balance - Drive slowly through a small obstacle course marked with cones to show that you have good balance and can maneuver at low speeds.
2 - Turning technique - Drive a smooth left curve at at least 30 km/h. The curve is set up with cones.
3 - Effective braking - Maintain a speed of at least 50 km/h, then brake optimally to a stop after passing two cones.
4 - Evasive steering - Drive through gate A, maneuver to the left of an obstacle and turn back through gate B. Must be performed without using the brake or any special speed reduction.
5 - Braking in a corner - Hold 2nd or 3rd gear through a left-hand curve, brake firmly to a stop when passing the cone in the middle of the corner. Stop with good balance at the end of the corner.

4. Driving technique

4.4 Track selection and placement (1/3)

Room for maneuver and track selection

Room for action

The margin of safety is the zone of safety you create in traffic by actively maintaining a sufficient distance from potential risks. With margin of safety, you have both time and space to adjust your driving in situations that arise due to poor judgment and poor driving technique. The need for margin of safety also determines which lane you choose on straight stretches and through turns.

To make the best possible lane choices, you must constantly analyze the traffic situations ahead of you:

Where should I position myself to get the best possible traction?
Where should I position myself to get the best possible view?
How should I drive to be seen and understood by other road users?
How should I position myself to give other road users the best possible room to maneuver?

You should also think about preparedness for action

What options do I have to swerve away if someone cuts the turn?
What if there is an obstacle around the bend?
What if you suddenly have to brake?

Track selection

Positioning too close to the curb will increase the chances of drivers passing you with too little distance and you can more easily be pushed off the road.

Positioning too close to the center line can cause oncoming traffic to come too close, increasing the risk of collision. Large vehicles such as buses and trucks will cause wind pressure when passing, which can interfere with your driving. Sometimes, such a position can also invite overtaking on the right side.

Make sure your location provides you with escape options.

Normal position - straight ahead

The starting point for lane selection/location is what we can call the normal location. The normal location is slightly to the left of the center of your own lane, and it is this location that we choose when there is no reason to choose another location. We typically use the normal location on straight sections.

With a position slightly to the left of the center of your lane, you will:

Maintain sufficient distance from traffic in the opposite direction.
Get sufficient distance to the curb so that you can swerve away in case of any conflicts.
Become clearly visible to both oncoming traffic and the traffic behind you.

Exceptions to normal placement

We will now look at a number of situations where you should choose a different location than the normal location. Such situations can include driving around corners, location in relation to special vehicles, location on roads of varying standards, and location in varying weather and road conditions.

Normal position - turn

Right turn

When making a right turn, you should normally position your motorcycle in the left part of your lane well before entering the turn. When you are about halfway through the turn, you should be positioned to the right of the center of your lane.

Do not overdo your positioning before the turn - Make sure you do not cross into the oncoming lane.

Left turn

To achieve optimal maneuverability in a left turn, you normally position your motorcycle toward the edge of your lane well in advance of the turn. Throughout the turn, you shift your position to a point to the left of the center of the lane.

Here too, you must not overdo your lane position. Unfortunately, going off the road while cornering is one of the more common motorcycle accidents.

The goal of your position before the turn and the movement you make sideways in the lane through the turn is to achieve a smoother curve than the curve itself.

4. Driving technique

4.4 Track selection and placement (2/3)

Active positioning in case of visibility obstacles

In some places, conditions will be special so that a different location than the normal location is required. This is called active location. An example of this is driving on city streets where parked cars take away part of the view of any pedestrian crossings. In such cases, you should choose a location further from the row of cars / edge than usual. In this way, you increase safety and at the same time get better visibility and safety margins.

A drive through Oslo offers countless visibility obstacles that you must take into account.

Typical visibility obstacles can be:

Parked cars.
Bus at the stop.
Hedges and green plants along the roadside.
House close to the road.
Containers or other items placed on the roadside.

In areas with visibility obstacles, you must think about safety and adopt braking readiness or action readiness to shorten your reaction time. If you are prepared, it is easier to react quickly and correctly.

Brake readiness

Braking readiness or action readiness means that you keep one hand over the brake lever and your foot over the brake pedal. This will shorten your reaction time.

Readiness for action

Braking readiness or action readiness means that you keep one hand over the brake lever and your foot over the brake pedal. This will shorten your reaction time.

Driving between rows of cars

In many places, traffic is heavy and queues occur. It is tempting to drive between the rows of cars to get there faster. There is a great risk associated with driving in this way. You never know if one of the drivers will swerve or change lanes without having looked in the mirror or checked the blind spots.

Today, it is accepted in Norway that driving between rows of cars can be done if the speed is low, equivalent to walking speed.

During the summer months, we often hear about accidents between motorcycles and cars on the major access roads to Oslo, Bergen and other major cities.

As a motorcyclist, you must take responsibility here; keep your speed low and keep a good distance from those you are riding between. Look carefully at the road markings. Remember in particular that it is not allowed to cross barrier lines.

4. Driving technique

4.5 Driving in different conditions (1/2)

Driving in the rain

Driving in the rain is challenging. You experience poorer visibility and poorer road grip. You have to take this into account and deal with it.

Rainy weather and visibility

When driving in the rain, you will have poorer visibility through the visor. Please note in particular that raindrops stick more easily to a dirty visor. Therefore, make sure to wash it regularly. A rinse in lukewarm water after each drive is recommended.

Splashes from oncoming traffic and the traffic in front of you can also be unpleasant. Make sure to give yourself some space around you so you can avoid the worst.

With rain, the visor often fogs up. You can counteract this by having a small opening on the visor. This will allow air to flow in and prevent fog from building up. Some helmets also have good ventilation systems that can help prevent fogging.

Rainy weather and road grip

Rain and water on the road make the road grip worse than usual. Water often collects in the ruts and causes problems.

It is important to trust your grip, sit in the correct riding position and give precise steering commands. If you become stiff and tense in your body, this will often worsen the situation and lead to poorer control of the motorcycle.

In rainy weather, it always pays to drive smart! That is, make choices that make driving safer. Choose a location and a route that avoids water as much as possible. Also take into account areas that are particularly slippery in rainy weather, such as manhole covers and road markings and roundabouts where diesel spills from trucks are common.

Other things to think about:

The right rain gear will keep you dry and warm. Getting wet will also make you cold. This can lead to stiffer and less controlled riding.
On rain-soaked asphalt, it can often be difficult to see oil and diesel spills on the roadway. Therefore, plan your driving and lane selection so that you have escape options.
If you start to skid, think correctly, make calm, precise movements and give the correct steering command and throttle or brake.

Driving in the dark

Motorcyclists often have more problems when driving in the dark than car drivers. The headlight is considerably smaller and often provides a very poor beam of light in front of the motorcycle. When you put the motorcycle over, the beam of light will also change and give you poorer visibility.

Many motorcyclists also have tinted or blackened visors. This provides poorer visibility in the dark than a clear visor.

From light to dark

In a sudden transition from bright surroundings to darkness, you must adjust your speed to account for the reduced visibility. This is especially true when entering a poorly lit tunnel in daylight, or when exiting a lit petrol station at night.

Different surfaces

The road network you will be driving on consists of partly worn and poor roads. You will experience, among other things, cracking in the asphalt, holes from winter salting, wear and tear and ruts from heavy traffic. It is important to take the condition of the road into account when driving. You must therefore always look far ahead, assess the road and the surroundings before deciding on the best possible location.

Large holes in the road can also cause you to lose control.

Wear and ruts often create large holes in the road surface. On dry asphalt, the rut can often provide the best grip. If you are lying on the edge of the rut, the tire can slip and cause the motorcycle to skid, but it can also help when turning. When it rains, a lot of water will collect in the ruts. This increases the risk of aquaplaning. It is then important for the motorcyclist to avoid the ruts.

Longitudinal cracks create imbalance in the motorcycle. Avoid these.

If you drive in the countryside, tractors and other vehicles can drag dirt and mud onto the asphalt. This reduces traction and can cause you to lose control.

During rainy weather and wet asphalt, there are areas that are particularly slippery, such as:

Manhole cover
Tram and train tracks
Road markings
Paving stones
Roundabouts

When today's roads are being maintained and paved, the Norwegian Road Administration often mills away asphalt. This can cause the road to become very rutted and a lot of small gravel accumulates in the ruts. It is then important that your anchor points on the motorcycle are stable and firm. If the motorcycle starts to move sideways and wobble, sit firmly and calmly on the motorcycle and keep a firm grip on the handlebars. Keep your arms and upper body relaxed.

When driving on such roads, attention is often focused on the surface. This makes it more difficult to perceive traffic signs and various situations that arise around us. By slowing down, you can counteract these problems.

If you are going onto a loose road, you should always slow down first, so that you can get to know the surface in a controlled manner. Newly gravelled roads can be particularly demanding for motorcycles. If you are riding on loose ground, it can be very beneficial to increase the pressure on the footrests. On motorcycles designed for this type of riding, it is common to stand on the footrests.

4. Driving technique

4.6 Driving with cargo and passengers (1/2)

Driving with cargo and passengers

The handling characteristics of a motorcycle change with the increased weight of luggage and passengers.

Too much weight at the rear will cause the motorcycle to oversteer, meaning it turns more than intended.
If you have too much weight at the front of the motorcycle, it will understeer, meaning it will turn less than intended.
It is always easier to control an understeer motorcycle, as you can lean it over more to get through the turn. An oversteer motorcycle, on the other hand, will turn more sharply than intended, making it harder to maintain control.
Always test ride the motorcycle after loading it. This will help you become more familiar with changes in the handling characteristics.

Driving with a load

When loading a motorcycle, it is best to do so in luggage boxes that are adapted to your bike. These provide low air resistance and stay in place while riding.

If you have three luggage boxes, pack the heaviest items low in the side bags. The lightest items should be placed in the top box. Check your motorcycle's registration document for the permitted weight. If you also have a tank bag, it is best to put the heaviest items there. This will not change the motorcycle's center of gravity as much.

Please note that luggage boxes may have limited speed approval. Please refer to the user manual for details.

The trolley card

Check how much load you can take with you in point 8 of your vehicle license - payload including passenger. You can find out how much the motorcycle weighs alone by subtracting 75 kg from point 8 - dead weight with driver. The driver is always set at 75 kg in your vehicle license, regardless of class.

Driving with a passenger

The passenger should sit as close to the rider as possible to ensure the best possible anchorage. This will make it easier for the passenger to feel and follow the movements of the motorcycle and rider.

If the passenger is sitting too far away from the driver, the air pressure will cause the passenger to wobble in the rear, making it more difficult for the driver to maintain control.

The passenger must follow the driver's movements:

Look far ahead and follow the road with your eyes.
The head position should be with the eyes horizontal, like the driver.
The passenger must look forward on the correct side of the driver's head: When turning right, the passenger should look forward on the driver's right side. When turning left, the passenger should look forward on the driver's left side.
The passenger should hold on to the driver's sides.

5. Responsibility

5.0 Introduction

Responsibility

Riding a motorcycle comes with great responsibility, not only morally but also legally. We will now look at some important liability provisions.

In Chapter 5, we will specifically review the following topics:

5.1 Vehicle condition and use
5.2 Registration and change of ownership
5.3 Financial responsibility and insurance
5.4 Sanctions
5.5 Suitability

5. Responsibility

5.1 Vehicle condition and use (1/2)

Responsibility for the condition of the motorcycle

Before the ride

According to the Road Traffic Act, you have a responsibility to know that the motorcycle is in proper and proper condition before riding. If you lend your motorcycle, you are also responsible for ensuring that the vehicle is in proper condition when you lend it out. And that the person lending it actually has the right to drive the motorcycle.

That the vehicle is in proper condition means that it meets all technical requirements set by various rules and regulations.
In practice, the fact that the vehicle is in good condition means that it is safe for traffic, both for the driver, passengers and other road users.

While driving

You are also responsible for ensuring that the motorcycle is in a safe and proper condition while riding. If a fault occurs while riding, you can continue as long as the fault does not affect road safety.

Examples

While riding, the light above the license plate stops working. The motorcycle is no longer in proper working order, but it is still in good condition. You therefore do not need to stop to repair the fault.
When riding in the dark, the rear lights stop working. The motorcycle is no longer safe to ride because other road users may have trouble seeing you in time, and it is therefore no longer in proper condition. You must stop at the first opportunity and repair the fault or call for help.

While driving, the driver is solely responsible for the condition of the vehicle.

Decent condition

Regulatory condition

Other important provisions on liability

Before driving

As a road user, you have a lot of responsibility, both related to the choices you make and the equipment you use.

Visibility - You must always have sufficient visibility to all sides. There should be nothing mounted that could obstruct your view or cause any disturbance.
Correct tires - You are responsible for ensuring that your motorcycle has sufficient traction in relation to the road.
Borrowing - You are responsible for ensuring that the person borrowing your motorcycle has a motorcycle license and is fit to ride.
Anti-theft - You are required to "take appropriate measures" to prevent unauthorized use of your motorcycle. This means, among other things, that you must lock the vehicle so that no unauthorized person can take it.
Police - You are obliged to stop at a traffic control and follow instructions until the control is completed or until you have been given permission to leave the scene. You are also obliged to present required documents and comply with any requirements.
Obstacles - You are obliged to move the motorcycle to a suitable location if it is placed as a danger or obstacle to traffic. If this is not possible, you must warn other drivers with emergency lights, a warning triangle or in some other way.

5. Responsibility

5.2 Registration and change of ownership (1/2)

Motor vehicle registration

Basically, all motorcycles must be registered in order to be used.

To register a vehicle for the first time in Norway, you must go to a traffic station. You must take out traffic insurance and prove that customs and fees have been paid before you can have the vehicle registered.

Vehicles that are registered have a license plate (the letter code in the registration number) and a vehicle registration certificate.

The vehicle card consists of two parts:

Part 1, which should always be carried when driving.
Part 2, which should not be stored with the motorcycle. You should keep it safe at home, you will need it if you are going to sell your motorcycle.

Traffic insurance

Also called liability insurance.

Traffic insurance is a mandatory insurance that you must have on almost all vehicles. If you are at fault in a traffic accident, traffic insurance covers damage to other people and other people's property. It also covers damage to yourself.

The insurance does not cover damage to your own belongings. For that, you must have comprehensive insurance.

Change of ownership

When you buy or sell a motorcycle, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration must be notified of the new owner. In this regard, there are a number of rules that are important to familiarize yourself with:

The change of ownership must be reported to the Norwegian Road Administration no later than three days after the change of ownership takes place.
The previous owner (seller) is responsible for submitting the sales notification. Otherwise, all future fees/claims will still go to the previous owner.
The sale notice can be delivered online or on paper. If the sale notice is delivered online, both the buyer and seller must use the online service.
If you do not use the online service, the Norwegian Road Administration recommends that part 2 of the vehicle registration document be used as a sales notification.
Both the buyer and seller must sign the sales notice. If it is delivered online, both must approve the sales notice.
Once the sale notice has been submitted and registered, the new owner will receive a letter stating what needs to be arranged, requirements for traffic insurance fees, toll requirements, any fines, etc.
The new owner cannot use the motorcycle until a new vehicle registration certificate has been received.

5. Responsibility

5.3 Financial responsibility and insurance (1/2)

Traffic insurance

All drivers are basically financially responsible for the damage caused by the vehicle, regardless of whether the driver was unlucky or careless.

To ensure that anyone who is injured receives compensation, all motorcycles must have traffic insurance (often referred to as liability insurance).

Traffic insurance covers damage to

other people
other vehicles (if the driver of the other vehicle cannot be held responsible for the damage that has occurred)
other people's property (for example, if you drive into a house or a fence)
the driver (i.e. yourself, if you are the driver)

Motor vehicle insurance does not cover damage to your own motorcycle. To insure yourself against damage to your own motorcycle, you must take out comprehensive vehicle damage insurance (also known as comprehensive motor vehicle insurance).

Motor vehicle insurance does not cover damage to your own vehicle.

Vehicle damage insurance

To insure yourself against damage to your own car, you must take out comprehensive vehicle insurance. This is perhaps better known as comprehensive insurance.

Insurance and recourse

If the insurance company has to make an insurance payment due to damages that you are responsible for, they can demand money back from you. This is called recourse.

The insurance company may claim recourse if you

caused the injury intentionally or was very careless
was under the influence of alcohol or other drugs
had stolen the motorcycle or used it in connection with a crime
drove without a valid driver's license
practice run illegally

Passengers may also have their right to compensation reduced or lost if they know, for example, that the vehicle has been stolen.

5. Responsibility

5.4 Sanctions (1/2)

Sanctions

As a driver, you must know – and comply with – all relevant laws and regulations issued by the authorities.

In the event of a violation of laws and regulations, the authorities (police, parking authorities, the Norwegian Road Administration) may react with

verbal warnings
fees
simplified penalties, fines and prison sentences
points and driver's license revocation
Sanctions related to the vehicle, such as blocking and banning of use, towing of the vehicle and detention, as well as a lien on the vehicle

Fee

A fine is not a criminal sanction and can be imposed by the police, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration at the regional road office or by municipal parking guards. A fine can be imposed for a number of less serious violations of traffic laws. It is imposed, among other things, if a driver's license is left at home, for failure to use a seat belt, for driving with tires with too little tread depth, and for overloading.

Simplified penalty notice

Simplified fines can be imposed by the police for various traffic offenses such as speeding, driving in violation of certain traffic signs/road markings, and driving against a red light.

Fine

A fine is a penalty that is not simplified, and is thus registered in the fine register.

Conditional imprisonment

A person sentenced to suspended prison sentence does not have to serve time in prison, provided that he meets certain conditions.

Anyone sentenced to unconditional imprisonment must serve the sentence in prison.

Mortgage

If someone has a lien on your vehicle, it means they can demand that you sell the vehicle to pay what you owe.

Drunk driving

It is illegal to drive a car with a blood alcohol level above 0.2 in Norway. The Road Traffic Act contains separate criminal provisions regarding drink-driving.

If you are convicted of drunk driving, you may receive...

fine, if the blood alcohol concentration is between 0.2 and 0.5 per mille. In some cases also loss of driving privileges for a maximum of one year.
fine and conditional or unconditional imprisonment, as well as loss of driving privileges for at least one year, if the blood alcohol concentration is between 0.5 and 1.2 per mille
fine and unconditional imprisonment, as well as loss of driving privileges for at least one year, if the blood alcohol concentration is above 1.2 per mille

Abstinence after driving

If you are involved in an accident or other incident that you believe, or should have known, could lead to a police investigation, you may not consume alcohol or other intoxicants for the first six hours after driving. Once the blood or breath test has been taken, or you are told by the police that they will not take samples, this prohibition no longer applies.

Mandatory abstinence

Professional drivers are subject to the mandatory abstinence law. The law states that you must not drink alcohol if there are 8 hours or less until you are supposed to go to work. Of course, you should also not drink alcohol while you are at work.

ATTENTION!

You can be convicted of driving under the influence with an alcohol concentration below 0.2 per mille if you have shown great carelessness while driving.

5. Responsibility

5.5 Suitability (1/2)

Suitability

Driving skills are significantly impaired if you are tired or under the influence of drugs and certain medications. Your reaction time is longer, you make poorer decisions and you become less critical in traffic situations.

Therefore, the Road Traffic Act states that one must not drive or attempt to drive a vehicle when one is in such a condition that one cannot be considered fit to drive safely.

Lack of fitness can be divided into two categories:

Alcohol, other drugs and dangerous drugs.
Illness, fatigue, uneasiness and mental conditions.

Riding a motorcycle when you are tired can be dangerous. Take a 15-minute rest.

Alcohol and drugs

In Norway we have a blood alcohol limit of 0.2 and it is illegal to drive if your blood alcohol level exceeds this. It is also illegal to drive with a blood alcohol level lower than this if your blood alcohol level makes you unfit to drive.

Alcohol in the blood burns at a rate of 0.10-0.15 per mille per hour. The burn cannot be accelerated by coffee, physical activity or other factors. Only time can reduce the blood alcohol level.

The risk of being killed in traffic is almost a thousand times higher at a blood alcohol level above 1.5 compared to a blood alcohol level of 0.5.

It is obvious that the use of narcotics and dangerous drugs does not belong with motorcycle riding, but the problem is still quite large.

The police arrest approximately 6,000 drivers a year on suspicion of drink-driving and approximately 4,000 drivers a year on suspicion of other drug use (source: Norwegian Institute of Public Health).

Fatigue and illness

Fatigue

Lack of sleep can significantly impair your driving skills, just like alcohol. Being awake for over 20 hours is equivalent to a blood alcohol level of 0.8. Sleep is the only thing that helps when you're tired, so take a 15-minute "power nap" rather than putting yourself and others in traffic at unnecessary risk.

Accident statistics show that fatigue is a contributing factor in around 15% of fatal traffic accidents (Source: Norwegian Public Roads Administration's in-depth analyses of fatal accidents)

When you are tired, your vision weakens considerably.

Disease

A cold, headache, nausea or other everyday ailments can make it difficult to concentrate. In such cases, it may be a good idea to leave the motorcycle parked.

Intoxication as a cause

In this film, we take a closer look at the influence of drugs as a cause of fatal accidents.

6. The road and road users

6.0 Introduction

The traffic system

Your behavior in traffic and the interaction between the different parts of the traffic system are largely governed by laws and regulations in the Road Traffic Act and the traffic rules. In addition, traffic is controlled through road markings, signs and traffic lights.

In Chapter 6 we will go through:

6.1 The traffic system and traffic management
6.2 Road and road markings
6.3 Signs
6.4 Traffic lights
6.5 Road users

Traffic rules

Actually "Regulations on driving and pedestrian traffic." The traffic rules include rules on positioning, the duty to give way, special speed regulations, overtaking, stopping and parking.

6. The road and road users

6.1 The traffic system and traffic management (1/2)

What controls traffic?

Without a set of rules that everyone follows, traffic would be chaotic and life-threatening. That's why we have laws, rules, and regulations that regulate how all the elements of the traffic system should function and how we should behave in traffic.

Through legislation, the authorities have given us both general and specific rules regarding behavior in traffic, requirements for vehicles, requirements for the design of the road environment, and traffic management.

Traffic regulation

The largest and perhaps most important topic in class B is traffic regulation . Traffic regulation covers everything within the traffic system - that is, everything from signs, traffic markings, laws and rules for traffic. You should therefore read this chapter several times.

Traffic management

The traffic rules and the Road Traffic Act give us guidelines for how we should drive and behave in traffic. We can say that they are part of traffic management.

Important laws and regulations

Matters such as the duty to give way, stopping and parking, speed, lane changes, use of lights and signals, etc. are governed by several different laws and regulations. The most important of these are the Road Traffic Act and the traffic regulations.

Road Traffic Act

The Road Traffic Act contains many important provisions that regulate our behavior in traffic. Of particular importance is the "Basic Rules for Traffic", which is the main provision on behavior in traffic.

The provisions of the Road Traffic Act apply to all motor vehicle traffic in Norway. The provisions also apply to cyclists and others who travel in traffic when they are on a road or area where cars or other motor vehicles normally drive.

The Road Traffic Act also contains important provisions regarding

speed
driver under the influence of drugs
obligations in the event of a traffic accident
practice run
violations and penalties

The Road Traffic Act is included in the laws of Norway.

Traffic rules

"Regulations on driving and pedestrian traffic" – better known as the traffic rules – contain provisions on behavior in traffic.

Traffic rules apply on public or private roads, streets or spaces that are open to general traffic.

The traffic regulations include, among other things, rules about

use of the roadway, vehicle position in the roadway and lane changes
duty to yield
Duties towards pedestrians
reversing and turning
special speed regulations
stopping and parking

Motor vehicle

Motor vehicle is a collective term for all vehicles that are propelled by their own engine.

Cars, mopeds, tractors, motorized lawn mowers and balance bikes such as Segways are all considered motor vehicles. Electric bicycles are not defined as motor vehicles.

General traffic

That a place is open to general traffic means that there is normally traffic there, even though it may not be open to everyone at all times.

The basic rule of traffic

Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act lays the foundation for all behavior in traffic, and is therefore also called the basic rule of traffic. You should always keep the basic rule in mind when you are in traffic. When someone does not follow the basic rule, dangerous traffic situations easily arise, and a violation of this section is therefore often grounds for losing your driver's license for a period of time.

The basic rule of traffic says:

"Everyone shall travel with consideration and be alert and cautious so that no danger arises or damage is caused and so that other traffic is not unnecessarily obstructed or disturbed."

"Road users should also show consideration for those who live or stay by the road."

When you drive, it is your basic duty to be:

Considerate – Take into account the needs of other road users and not just your own.
Be alert – Be focused and attentive and pay close attention to traffic.
Careful – Drive in a manner that reduces the risk of accidents and injuries. Adjust your speed to the conditions and show your fellow road users clearly, and in good time, what you intend to do.

When passing other road users, you must be careful.

The basic rule of traffic

In this film, we take a closer look at 3 different situations that show the basic rule of traffic in practice.

6. The road and road users

6.2 Road and road markings (1/4)

The road

The road is an important part of the traffic system.

In the traffic regulations, a road is defined as "a public or private road, street or space that is open to general traffic." Road markings distinguish between different parts of the road and provide important information about which rules apply.

General information about road markings

Longitudinal markings are used to divide the roadway into lanes/indicate the outer edge of the roadway.
Transverse markings are used, among other things, to mark stop lines, yield lines and pedestrian crossings.
Yellow markings separate traffic in the opposite direction.
White markings separate traffic in the same direction.

General traffic

That a place is open to general traffic means that there is normally traffic there, even though it may not be open to everyone at all times.

The components of the road

In addition to the definition of road, the traffic rules contain definitions of many other important concepts about the road and the road environment.

Roadway – The part of the road designated for normal driving.
Lane – Each of the longitudinal lanes into which a roadway is divided by markings, or which is wide enough for traffic with a single line of vehicles.
Road shoulder – The part of the road that lies outside the curb line.
Cycle lane – A lane designated for cyclists by public traffic signs and markings.
Median/Traffic island – Physical obstacle between two lanes of traffic.

Sidewalk – A "facility" for pedestrians that is separated from the roadway by curbs.
Footpath and cycle path – A road designated by public traffic signs for pedestrians, cyclists or combined pedestrian and cyclist traffic. Such a road is separated from other roads by a lawn, ditch, fence, kerbstone or in some other way.

The components of the road

This film shows the most common components of an intersection in a typical urban area.

6. The road and road users

6.2 Road and road markings (2/4)

Road markings in the middle of the roadway

Lane line

A lane line warns that overtaking is safe as long as there is no oncoming traffic and visibility is good. The lane line consists of short yellow/white lines with long gaps. The gap should be 3 times as long as the line. When the speed limit is 50 km/h or lower, the line will be 1 meter and the gap 3 meters. When the speed limit is 60 km/h or higher, the length is increased to 3 meters for the line and 9 meters for the gap.

Alert line

A warning line warns that overtaking will be risky, often because you will not be able to see far enough. It is therefore permissible to overtake, but it requires that you have full control. The line itself consists of long yellow/white lines with short gaps, where the lines are 3 times as long as the gaps. When the speed limit is 50 km/h or lower, the gap will be 1 meter and the line will be 3 meters, but when the speed limit increases to 60 km/h or higher, the length increases to 3 meters for the gap and 9 meters for the line.

Combined lines

In cases where you and oncoming traffic have different forward visibility, you will often see combined lines. In the case of combined lines, you should follow the line closest to you. In the image, oncoming traffic should follow the warning line, while traffic in your direction should follow the lane line.

Barrier line

A barrier line consists of an uninterrupted line that warns that overtaking is not possible. If you cross the barrier line, you risk having your driving license revoked. In the example image on the right, you see a combined line with two barrier lines, one for each direction of travel. We call this combination a double barrier line.

Restricted area

A restricted area is a shaded area that must not be crossed. Such restricted areas are often used at intersections or to separate traffic on motorways. As with the restricted line, crossing a restricted area is strictly prohibited and can, in the worst case, result in the loss of your driving license for a period of time.

Arrows

The arrows indicate that the lane is to be used by road users who are going to drive in the direction or directions indicated by the arrow. Before major intersections, these arrows will also be displayed on information signs hanging above the road, as they are easily hidden by road users in front or under snow and slush in winter.

6. The road and road users

6.2 Road and road markings (3/4)

Road markings on the side of the roadway

Dividing line

A dividing line consists of equal-length lines and spaces and often separates lanes from, for example, bicycle lanes or bus lanes. Dividing lines are also used to separate lanes intended for public transport and taxis from the other lanes.

Border – solid

A solid edge line is white and runs along the outer edge of the roadway. A solid edge line is used on both two-way and one-way traffic roads.

Border – dotted

On roads with a width of less than 6 meters, the roadway is not divided into lanes and therefore there is no line in the middle of the roadway. Instead, dotted lines are used on the side that consist of equal length lines and spaces.

Transverse road markings

Yield line

A yield line is a transverse road marking consisting of triangles that mark the stopping point for yielding at an intersection. Yield lines are also used when entering roundabouts.

Stop line

A stop line is a solid line that marks the stopping point at traffic lights and at stop signs.

Pedestrian crossing

A pedestrian crossing is marked with thick white stripes and equal spaces. You must give way to pedestrians who want to cross the road across the crosswalk. When you approach a crosswalk where a pedestrian is waiting, you must clearly slow down to show that you want to give way to the pedestrian.

Be aware that not all pedestrian crossings are marked with crosswalk signs and that some crosswalks may be elevated.

6. The road and road users

6.3 Signs (1/4)

Sign

You must know the different groups of signs and what each individual sign means for your further driving.

We will now look at the different sign groups, but for a complete overview of all signs, you should go to Chapter 10, “Sign Overview.”

Important!

On the official theory test, your knowledge of road signs will be thoroughly tested. Some tasks are simply about knowing the meaning of a particular sign, while in other tasks you are shown a situation where you have to consider several signs at the same time.

In the last chapter of the course you will find a complete list of all signs used in Norway today.

The sign groups

In this film we take a look at the sign groups.

Danger sign

Danger signs warn of particular dangers on a stretch of road. They may warn of irregularities in the road such as sharp bends, slippery road surfaces or uneven roads. Danger signs also warn of road users you need to watch out for, animals that may be in the road or other possible hazards.

All hazard signs are shaped with a red triangle on the outside and a white background. The exception is when such signs are put up for a short period, typically in connection with road works, in which case a yellow background color is used.

Often, danger signs will have sub-signs that provide information about the distance, extent or period for which the sign applies. The sub-sign may also have symbols, arrows or text with important additional information to the danger sign.

The location of the danger sign depends on the speed limit in the area:

If the speed limit is 60 km/h or lower, the sign is placed between 50–150 meters from the hazard.
The sign is placed 150–250 meters from the hazard when the speed limit is 70 km/h or higher.
At speeds of 90 km/h or higher, danger signs are often placed 400 meters from the danger.

The sign warns of a dangerous turn.

Yield and right-of-way signs

Yield and right-of-way signs regulate yielding at intersections or on a stretch of road. The signs in this category have varying designs based on their purpose.

Yield and right-of-way signs may have sub-signs indicating, for example, distance or the course of a right-of-way.

6. The road and road users

6.3 Signs (2/4)

Prohibition sign

Prohibition signs are signs that prohibit something on a stretch of road or in a place, or that cancel a prohibition. Basically, prohibition signs apply in the direction of travel from where the sign is located to the next intersection (but some prohibition signs apply until they are canceled by other signs). The sign that shows the speed limit on a stretch of road is also a prohibition sign.

Prohibition signs are round with a red border and a white background. The exception is temporary signage where the background is yellow, and signs prohibiting stopping and parking where the background is blue.

Prohibition signs may also have sub-signs describing the time, extent, etc.

Prohibited for motor vehicles.

Mandatory sign

Mandatory signs apply to a road section or location. The requirement usually applies to which lane to use or which direction you can drive at an intersection.

Mandatory signs are round with a blue background and may have sub-signs that inform which road users the sign applies to.

Mandatory lane.

Information sign

Information signs indicate that special rules, including prohibitions and orders, apply or cease to apply to the road section or location in question. Most information signs are square with a blue background. Information signs that provide information about the continuation of the lanes have a white background.

Like most other sign groups, information signs can also have sub-signs that provide more detailed information about the main sign.

Pedestrian crossing.

6. The road and road users

6.3 Signs (3/4)

Service sign

Service signs provide information about emergency assistance, roadside assistance, points of interest, and more. Two or more symbols can be combined on the same sign. Distance and further information about the service location can also be indicated on the sign.

Service signs that provide information about emergency assistance and roadside assistance are square, with a blue border and a black or red symbol. Signs that provide information about attractions, nature experiences or outdoor activities are square, with a brown border and brown symbols.

Directional signs

Road signs provide information about place names, businesses, road routes, lane selection, road selection and distance to destination. Unlike the other types of signs, road signs do not have sub-signs. Instead, text, numbers and symbols can be on the road sign itself. If public traffic signs are reproduced on road signs, it means that a corresponding sign is set up on the road to which it is directed.

Color codes for road signs

Geographical targets motorway – blue background and white text
Geographical targets other roads – yellow background and black text
Other measurements – white background and black text
Temporary signage – orange background and black text
Tourist destination – brown background and white text

The large yellow sign on the right is an exit sign.

Sub-sign

Sub-signs are only valid when they are used in conjunction with a main sign, and provide further clarification, expansion, completion or limitation of the main sign's meaning or scope of validity.

Sub-signs for main signs used for temporary signage in connection with road works may have a yellow background color.

The sub-sign shows the distance to what the main sign warns about.

Marking sign

Marking signs provide information about the further course of the road or about obstacles on or near the roadway. Curb posts and traffic cones also fall within this category.

Temporary marking signs may have a red background color and yellow or white symbols.

Directional marking.

6. The road and road users

6.4 Traffic lights (1/3)

Traffic light

At intersections where there is a steady flow of road users, traffic is often regulated by traffic lights. In recent years, many traffic lights have been replaced with roundabouts to improve traffic flow, but we still find a number of traffic lights in the larger cities in this country. We will now look at what the different traffic lights mean:

Green light – means you can pass the signal or stop line if the road is clear.
Yellow light – warns that the light will soon turn red and that you must stop. If you do not have time to stop because you are going fast and are close to the intersection, it is usually better to drive through the intersection than to brake suddenly just before.
Red light – means you must not pass the signal or stop line.
Red light together with yellow light – indicates that it will soon turn green.
Flashing yellow light or no light – means that the traffic light is out of order and then signage or the general yield rules apply.

Pedestrian signal

The light shows a green or a red man.
Red means that pedestrians must not begin crossing the roadway if this would obstruct drivers or pose a danger. Pedestrians who have already entered the roadway may continue crossing.
Green means that pedestrians can cross the roadway.
A flashing green signal warns that the signal will shortly change to red, and has the same meaning as a red signal.

Arrow signal

The signal applies to those who want to drive in the direction the arrow is pointing.
Arrow signals can have one, two or three light openings. If the arrow signal is not lit, you should follow the main traffic light. If both are lit, but you are going in the direction indicated by the arrow, you should follow the arrow.

Other traffic lights

Lane signal

A red cross indicates a prohibition on using the field in the direction of the signal.
Green arrow indicates that the field can be used.
A yellow arrow indicates that the lane will be closed, and that drivers must immediately change lanes in the direction the arrow points.

Flashing signal in front of railway

A flashing red signal indicates that road users must stop at the stop line or at a safe distance in front of the signal.
A white flashing signal indicates that the level crossing can be passed in accordance with the provisions of the traffic regulations. A white flashing signal also indicates that the signaling system is in operation.

Flashing light arrow

The arrow marks which side is to be passed.
Flashing light arrows are usually set up in connection with road works.

Public transport signal

Public transport signal.
S stands for stop and means the same as the red light in a regular traffic light.

6. The road and road users

6.4 Traffic lights (2/3)

The pyramid of authority

You will often encounter situations in traffic where traffic rules, road markings, signs and traffic lights conflict with each other. In order to know what to follow, it is important that you learn the hierarchy between these, the so-called "pyramid of authority".

The authority pyramid tells you that the police are at the top. For example, if a police officer tells you to drive, you should drive regardless of what any yield signs or traffic lights indicate.

Under the police are traffic lights. This means that as long as the traffic lights are active, they take precedence over any yield signs. If you come to a traffic light and you have a green light, but there is also a yield sign there, the traffic light applies. If the traffic light is out of order, however, you must yield after the yield sign.

There are signs and road markings under traffic lights. So if a yield sign tells you that you must yield to traffic on an intersecting road, you must yield even if the general yield rules of the traffic regulations actually say that traffic from the left has the right of way.

At the bottom of the authority pyramid are traffic rules and other relevant regulations.

Tip!

On the theory test, you will not necessarily be given tasks about the authority pyramid directly, but you will usually be asked questions about situations where you must use the authority pyramid to find the correct answer.

The pyramid of authority

In this film we see how the authority pyramid affects the passage of an intersection.

Police and traffic controllers

Rules, signs and lights are not always enough to ensure safe and efficient traffic flow. In some cases, such as traffic accidents or roadworks, there will be a need to regulate traffic manually – that is, for a person to direct traffic on site. At other times, you may be waved in for an inspection by the police or the Norwegian Public Roads Administration.

Persons with authority to give directions in traffic

Police – Direct traffic when there has been a traffic accident, or when other reasons cause the flow of traffic to stop. In addition, the police also carry out various types of checks, such as speed checks, seat belt use and breathalyzer checks.
Customs – Customs officers can wave down road users for inspection. Such inspections usually take place at border crossings, where the primary purpose is to check that you are not carrying contraband, but the vehicle can also be impounded if the paperwork is not in order.
The Norwegian Public Roads Administration – The Norwegian Public Roads Administration carries out some of the same checks as the police; technical inspections, seat belt use, etc.
Roadworks – During roadworks, there will likely be one or more people directing traffic past the area in question. These people will likely have orange or other self-luminous clothing and lights to direct traffic with. Temporary signage may also be set up, with a yellow background.

Duties during traffic control

You are obliged to stop at a traffic control and follow instructions until the control is completed or until you have been given permission to leave the area. You are also obliged to present required documents and comply with any requirements.

Traffic flow

When there is a lot of traffic, there will often be a lot of congestion and we will have poor traffic flow. During rush hour, traffic flow is often at its worst.

6. The road and road users

6.5 Road users (1/3)

Road users

The Road Traffic Act and traffic regulations require that you, as a motorcyclist, must take other road users into account. As a motorcyclist, you have a great moral and legal responsibility and the requirements placed on you are strict – much stricter than the requirements placed on non-motorized road users.

The traffic rules contain separate provisions that require us to show extra caution in relation to pedestrians, children, the elderly and people with disabilities.

To achieve efficient and safe traffic flow, you as a driver must also pay special attention to some other road user groups, especially larger vehicles and two-wheelers.

Soft road users

Vulnerable road users are non-motorized road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, scooter users, skiers, etc. Vulnerable refers to the fact that vulnerable road users are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents and collisions.

Two-wheelers

By two-wheelers we mean motorcycles, mopeds and bicycles.

The soft road users

By vulnerable road users we mean cyclists, pedestrians and other non-motorized road users – those road users who are at greatest risk of serious injury in an accident. Some vulnerable road users require extra attention, and to avoid accidents between vehicles and particularly vulnerable vulnerable road users, the following provision is included in the traffic rules:

Soft road users are vulnerable, and often harder to spot than vehicles.

As a driver, you are particularly obliged to maintain a sufficiently low speed and, if necessary, stop immediately when passing

children staying on or by the road
school patrol
person who uses a white cane or guide dog for the blind
another person who may be presumed to suffer from a defect or illness that hinders him/her in traffic
tram or bus that has stopped or is about to stop at a stop

Child

You are obliged to maintain a sufficiently low speed and, if necessary, stop immediately when passing children who are on or near the road.

The background to this rule is mainly that:

Children are impulsive and do unexpected things.
Children's field of vision is much smaller than that of adults (lacking the same wide angle).
Children's hearing is also underdeveloped, including children's inability to hear where a sound is coming from.
Children's ability to judge distance and speed is poorer than adults'.
Children do not understand how traffic works and have no concept of reaction times and braking distances.

Since children are small, you must be especially attentive in relevant areas, and adjust your speed to avoid accidents as a result of children being hidden behind parked cars.

Cycling

Although more and more places are building dedicated cycle paths, it is not uncommon to encounter cyclists on the road. Sharing the road with other road users requires you to take extra care. In addition, there are some specific provisions regarding cyclists in the traffic rules.

To improve the interaction between motorcyclists and cyclists

Keep a safe distance from cyclists on the road. When passing cyclists, you should have a safety margin of 1.5-2 meters. A good tip is to move as far to the side as you would for a car.
Bike lanes are for cyclists; driving in the bike lane is not permitted.
If you are going to turn, you must give way to cyclists who are going straight ahead. Signal and check your blind spot before turning.
Although cyclists are also expected to follow traffic rules, you cannot assume that all cyclists know the rules. Be prepared for cyclists who may turn without signaling, and cyclists who ride against the direction of traffic on one-way streets.

6. The road and road users

6.5 Road users (2/3)

Elderly and disabled

As mentioned, you are obliged to maintain a sufficiently low speed and, if necessary, stop immediately when passing a person using a white cane or a guide dog for the blind and for people who have disabilities or illnesses that hinder them in traffic.

Old age naturally leads to impaired vision and hearing and often reduced mobility. This makes it more difficult for older people to get a good overview of the traffic situation and it also becomes more difficult to navigate in traffic, something you as a driver must take into account.

Blind and disabled people will naturally also often have difficulty navigating traffic.

Make it clear to the elderly and disabled that you are stopping for them.

Walking

The traffic rules also contain a separate provision that requires you to show extra caution towards pedestrians in traffic.

As a motorcyclist you must:

Give pedestrians sufficient space on the road.
Give way to pedestrians if you are crossing a walkway or sidewalk and when driving in a pedestrian zone or street corner.
Give way to pedestrians who are in a crosswalk or are about to enter it (applies to crosswalks that are not regulated by traffic lights or police).
Stop and give way to passengers who are getting off or about to get on a tram at a stop without a traffic island if you are passing a tram on the right.
Avoid stopping at pedestrian crossings.

Free way

To facilitate the movement of certain road users, traffic rules require that we give them the right of way. Giving them the right of way means that you should do what you can to let them pass and reduce the risk of accidents by swerving to the side and possibly stopping.

Large vehicles

As a motorcycle driver, you must take into account the limitations of large vehicles compared to small vehicles and help facilitate efficient traffic flow.

Trucks need extra space to turn. Please pay attention!

Consider in particular the following differences between large and small vehicles:

Speed. Large vehicles accelerate more slowly.
Weight. Higher weight leads to longer braking distances.
Wheelbase. A larger wheelbase leads to a larger turning radius.
Visibility. It can be difficult/impossible to see what is happening in front/behind/to the side of a large vehicle.

By acting in the following way, you contribute to better traffic flow:

Give large vehicles the necessary space to complete turns.
Feel free to give up your right of way to avoid forcing a large vehicle to slow down or stop (heavy vehicles that have to brake will take a long time to regain cruising speed, which will affect everyone driving behind).

Wheelbase

The distance between the front axle (front wheels) and rear axle (rear wheels) of a vehicle. In the example image you see the wheelbase of a car.

Horses

Accidents involving horses and motorcycles occur very rarely, but the consequences can often be serious.

As a driver, you have a great responsibility to ensure that passing a horse is safe. To pass a horse safely, you should:

Reduce speed as you approach.
Make sure that the horse and rider have spotted you.
Stop and wait if the horse seems frightened or out of control.
Avoid sudden movements – drive past the horse quietly and calmly.

7. Driving

7.0 Introduction

In traffic

Before you ride in traffic for the first time, you should practice basic observation techniques and think about how to best make yourself understood by other road users. You should also know how the motorcycle behaves physically in terms of speed, traction and braking.

In Chapter 7 we will go through:

7.1 Traffic situation and driving process
7.2 The Se rules
7.3 About speed limits
7.4 Speed, grip, braking
7.5 Speed and distance

7. Driving

7.1 Traffic situation and driving process (1/2)

Traffic situations and the driving process

Traffic situation is an important concept in traffic training. A traffic situation consists of you and your vehicle, other road users, the road, the road system and signage, visibility and driving conditions, and the interaction between these factors.

Traffic situations vary from the very simple and clear to the complicated and confusing. In a complicated traffic situation, there is a lot going on that you have to deal with and large amounts of information that your brain has to process.

We call this process the driving process and it describes what you as a driver do in traffic from the moment something happens until you have reacted and responded:

You sense – Your eye receives information, but your brain has not processed it yet.
You perceive what you have sensed – The brain recognizes what you see and what is happening.
You decide what to do – You consider different solutions for further action and choose.
You act – You implement what you have decided to do.

Driving experience leads to lower accident risk

One of the reasons why experienced drivers have fewer accidents than younger drivers is that they have experienced many more different traffic situations. Therefore, they can more easily identify dangerous situations and they can more easily decide what to do to avoid danger. Experienced drivers also have more practiced and automated skills, so they can concentrate fully on what is happening around them.

Vehicle

A vehicle is a "device intended to travel on the ground without rails". Accordingly, both bicycles, mopeds, motorcycles and cars are vehicles. Note that mopeds, motorcycles and cars are also defined as motor vehicles (vehicles that are propelled by an engine).

Sight and the other senses

The sight

Riding a motorcycle requires constant attention and vision is the most important sense when riding a motorcycle. What you see will affect your riding.

Around 90 percent of our information comes through vision. Vision is therefore the only sense that has specific requirements for obtaining a driver's license. If you have poor vision, you must present your own vision certificate for the driving test. The field of vision is usually 180 degrees when we are at rest. In peripheral vision, we can glimpse movements and changes in light. In order to see details, it is the acuity that is used. Acuity is only 3–5 degrees.

Narrowed field of vision

At higher speeds, vision is unable to use the entire field of vision. When driving at 70 km/h, we will only use around 70 degrees of the field of vision. This means that you have to move your eyes frequently to get an overview.

When you wear a full-face helmet, your vision will be somewhat reduced due to this. Approximately 15 degrees on each side disappear, so head movement is important to see in the blind spot.

The other senses

We also use our hearing, balance, sense of smell, and joint and muscle sense when riding a motorcycle. In this sense, all of the senses are of some importance when riding. Feeling the movement of the motorcycle when overtaking, braking, and accelerating is an important part of the riding process.

Our ability to perceive has limitations

See and be seen

What you see and perceive determines how you drive in traffic. Do you understand what you are doing? Are you a problem for others? Do others understand what you are going to do?

A particular problem is that it is often difficult to perceive the distance to other traffic. It is also difficult to perceive the speed of oncoming or crossing vehicles. This is something you need to be aware of.

Since motorcycles are relatively small, it is more difficult to judge the distance to an oncoming motorcycle than to an oncoming car. Therefore, you must expect that oncoming drivers will often think you are further away than you are and that you are driving slower than you actually are.

You may be difficult to spot in traffic.

7. Driving

7.2 The Se rules (1/3)

The Se rules

When you are driving in traffic, you must constantly obtain information about the traffic situation. A full 90% of this information is obtained through your vision. You interpret the behavior of other road users and adapt your own driving accordingly. But in order for others to be able to interpret your behavior correctly and have the opportunity to adapt their own driving, it is also important that you are clear and act in good time. If you follow the rules of seeing, it will be easier to both see and be seen.

The Se rules

Look far ahead.
Move your gaze.
Take an overview.
Always look for a way out.
Be seen and understood.

1. Look far ahead

Look far ahead to detect and perceive situations as early as possible so you can adapt your driving in time.

Looking far ahead also makes it easier to stabilize the motorcycle's course and to position the vehicle correctly on the road.

How far ahead should you look?

In densely populated areas, you should look ahead as far as the street can reach.
On country roads, you should see at least 400 meters ahead.
In the dark, you should try to see further than the vehicle's light beam.

Try to see to the end of the street.

2. Move your gaze

Even though you should primarily look far ahead, you must regularly move your gaze forward (what is happening on side roads ahead), backward and to the sides in order to observe the overall traffic situation.

Forward and to the sides (for example, to see what's happening on a road coming in from the side):

Move your gaze often.
Look at each page several times to make sure you get all the important information.

Backwards and to the sides (for example, to see what happens if you have to brake suddenly or change lanes):

Look in the mirrors frequently.
When braking, you must glance in the mirror to check that the traffic behind you has also managed to stop. Remember that mirrors shrink so you can be "tricked" into thinking that vehicles you see in the mirror are further away than they actually are.
Check your mirrors and blind spot before turning at an intersection, changing lanes or making any other lateral movement.
Remember to check your blind spot.

Move your gaze frequently to be aware of any hazards that may arise.

7. Driving

7.2 The Se rules (2/3)

3. Take an overview

Take an overview to get an overview of the entire traffic situation and try to predict how the traffic situation will develop in the next few seconds.

At a speed of 50 km/h you are driving at approximately 14 m/s. To predict how traffic will develop in the next 10 seconds means you have to predict what will happen in the next 140 meters.

At a speed of 80 km/h you are driving at approximately 22 m/s. To predict how traffic will develop in the next 10 seconds means you have to predict what will happen in the next 220 meters.

Try to predict how the traffic situation will develop in the next few seconds.

4. Always look for a way out

Always look for a way out or alternative solution so you have a plan for what to do if something happens.

To know what options you have, it is advisable to keep a good distance from the vehicle in front so that you have good visibility.

The solution in this case is a change of field.

5. Be seen and understood

For you as a motorcyclist, it is especially important to be seen and understood. You should therefore always drive in a way that allows other road users to take you into account as much as possible and understand what you are planning to do.

To be seen and understood, you must:

Position yourself correctly in the roadway in good time . For example, on a multi-lane road, you should move into the left lane early when turning left.
Adjust your speed well in advance . For example, you should slow down well in advance before a pedestrian crossing so that pedestrians can see that you will comply with your duty to yield.
Give signals in good time . You give signals using your turn signals and brake lights.
Signal with a light horn (high beam) or sound horn (honk) to contact or inform others of dangers (according to the Traffic Regulations, unnecessary use of sound and light horns is prohibited).
Try to make eye contact with other road users whenever possible to make sure they have seen and understood you.

By signaling in good time, the oncoming car will stop to let you through.

7. Driving

7.3 About speed limits (1/2)

Speed limits

There are some main rules about speed in the Road Traffic Act and the traffic regulations.

In Norway, we have two general speed limits, which apply unless traffic signs state otherwise. When specific speed limits are lifted, the general speed limits will apply.

General speed limits

In built-up areas: 50 km/h.
Outside built-up areas: 80 km/h.

The term "built-up area" is not defined in the law, but there are usually 50 km/h signs when you enter a built-up area.

Adjust your speed to the conditions.

The most important rule about speed is that you must assess for yourself how fast you can safely maintain.

The driver of a vehicle must adjust the speed to the location, road, visibility and traffic conditions so that no danger or inconvenience to others can arise, and so that other traffic is hindered or disturbed as little as possible. The driver must always have full control of the vehicle.

Drivers must be able to stop on the stretch of road that the driver has a clear view of, and in front of any foreseeable obstacle.

The rules mean that you as a driver must always make your own assessment of whether you can maintain the speed limit or whether you must choose a lower speed.

Densely populated area.

Outside densely populated areas.

Road section

A part of a road. Can be anything from the part of the road you see in front of you to a stretch between two places.

Speed limits and signage

The general speed limits for built-up areas and outside built-up areas apply unless signs state otherwise.

Speed limit sign

The Speed Limit sign applies on the road on which it is placed and until the speed limit is changed by another sign. Signs for new speed limits and the lifting of speed limits are placed on both sides of the road. If the sign is only on the right side of the road, it is a reminder of the current speed limit.

The sign End of special speed limit means that the new speed limit is 80 km/h.

Zone sign

In residential areas there is a separate type of speed limit sign, so-called zone signs.

Zone signs apply on all roads until they are repealed. Unless otherwise indicated, the general speed limit is 50 km/h when you pass the "End of speed limit zone" sign.

Danger signs and recommended speed

Hazard signs along the road inform you of potential hazards, and normally require you to adjust your speed to avoid dangerous situations.

In many places, there is a combination of a warning sign and a speed limit sign. Typically, such signs will be found on a very sharp bend outside a built-up area.

Special rules about speed

There are also several specific provisions regarding speed in different situations/circumstances:

Drivers are particularly obliged to maintain a sufficiently low speed and, if necessary, stop immediately when passing:

children staying on or by the road
school patrol
people who are visually impaired or blind
persons who may be presumed to have a disability or suffer from an illness that hinders them in traffic
tram/bus that has stopped or is about to stop at a stop

7. Driving

7.4 Speed, grip, braking (1/4)

Road grip

Grip is the contact between the tires and the ground you are riding on. In order to have good control of your motorcycle, you must have good grip at all times. There are two main things that affect how good your grip is:

Motorcycle kinetic energy – This is the energy your motorcycle has due to the speed you are maintaining and the weight of the vehicle. The higher the kinetic energy, the worse the grip will be when you try to turn or brake with a heavy motorcycle at high speed.
Grip between tires and surface – The quality of your tires, as well as the type of surface you are riding on, is the other factor that determines your grip. If you ride on icy roads around zero degrees with worn summer tires, you have little grip and the chance of the motorcycle sliding in a different direction than the one you are riding is high.

You determine the grip yourself by choosing good tire equipment and by maintaining a reasonable speed in relation to the surface and weather.

Calculating kinetic energy

When you double your speed, you quadruple the kinetic energy of the motorcycle. That is, it takes four times as much energy to stop a motorcycle traveling at 60 km/h as it does to stop a motorcycle traveling at 30 km/h. And if you increase your speed to 90 km/h, the kinetic energy increases to nine times what it was at 30 km/h.

Remember!

We say that kinetic energy increases with the square of the change in velocity.

Finding the square of a number

To find the square of a number, you must multiply it by itself. The square of 2 is (2 x 2 =) 4, the square of 3 is (3 x 3 =) 9, etc.

Road grip

The friction between the tire and the road is called traction. This friction, and thus traction, is influenced by, for example:

The speed (high speed gives less grip than low speed).
Weight (high weight provides more grip).
The tires (studded, studless, hard rubber, softer rubber, etc.).
The standard of the road (new asphalt, old asphalt, gravel, sand, etc.).
Driving (wet road surface, icy road surface, water in the ruts, etc.).

Grip is used to move the motorcycle forward, backward, and sideways, and to change speed.

When you accelerate so fast that the rear wheel spins, it means you have currently lost all traction.
When you turn, you lose some of your grip.
When you brake, you use up a large part of the grip.

As mentioned, you use traction when you turn and when you change speed. To keep traction solely for steering, you should therefore slow down before turning.

Aquaplaning is a phenomenon that you can experience on wet roads and that you need to be aware of. Aquaplaning occurs when so much water gets between the tire and the road that the tire does not make contact with the road. On a two-wheeler, aquaplaning is especially bad. The risk of aquaplaning increases with speed. Therefore, remember to adjust your speed and lane selection to avoid the phenomenon.

Winter conditions: Even on normal slippery winter conditions, grip can be reduced to 1/4 of what is normal.

Winter weather - maybe you should leave your motorcycle parked?

7. Driving

7.4 Speed, grip, braking (2/4)

Reaction distance, braking distance and stopping distance

You are out riding and notice a hazard ahead on the road. You decide to brake hard to stop before the hazard. How long does it take from the time the hazard occurs until you have stopped the motorcycle? How far does the motorcycle travel before it stops?

You may remember the elements from the driving process – detect, perceive, decide and act. Let’s use these as a starting point as we look further at braking.

Detect – It takes time from the time a hazard occurs until you actually detect the hazard. We call this time the inattention time and the distance you cover here we can call the inattention length. There are many factors that affect the inattention length and we therefore do not usually include this in tasks about braking. A driver who actively uses the rules of sight while driving will be able to detect and perceive hazards earlier than other drivers.
Perceive and decide – It takes a certain amount of time from when you have detected the danger until you decide how to act. This time is called reaction time and the corresponding distance is called reaction distance. Reaction distance is influenced by factors such as the driver's level of experience, alertness and maturity.
Handle – It takes time from the time you start braking until the motorcycle has stopped. The distance covered is called braking distance. Braking distance is affected by the grip of the tires, the motorcycle's kinetic energy and how hard you brake.

Reaction length + braking length = stopping length

If you combine reaction distance with braking distance, we find the motorcycle's stopping distance. Many people confuse the terms braking distance and stopping distance, so make sure you understand the difference between them.

Calculating reaction length

To calculate reaction distance, you need to know your reaction time and your speed. Since reaction time is given in seconds, it is helpful if speed is given in meters per second (instead of km per hour). To convert speed from km/h to m/s, divide speed by 3.6. Multiply the answer by reaction time to find reaction distance.

Example!

You are driving on a country road at 60 km/h. You detect a hazard and consider what to do. It takes 2 seconds before you decide how to act. What will be your reaction time?

First, you convert the speed to meters per second: 60 / 3.6 = 16.67

Then multiply the speed by 2: 16.67 x 2 = 33.32

The reaction length is therefore approximately 33 meters.

How do you calculate the change in reaction length?

To calculate how much the reaction length changes when the speed changes, you must first find the change in speed. You find this by calculating how many times faster or slower the new speed is compared to the old one: New speed / old speed = change in speed

The reaction length changes by the same amount as the speed, so to find the new reaction length, multiply the change in speed by the original reaction length: Change in speed x original reaction length = new reaction length

Example!

Let's say you have increased your speed from 60 km/h to 90 km/h. Then the reaction distance will have increased to (90 / 60) x 33.32 = 50 meters.

7. Driving

7.4 Speed, grip, braking (3/4)

Calculating braking distance

How do you calculate braking distance?

It is more difficult to calculate braking distance than reaction distance at a given speed because there are so many different things that come into play.

Braking distance is a function of speed, surface, road, weight, how hard you brake and the quality of the brakes, among other things. Because of this, you are not expected to be able to calculate braking distances based solely on a given speed.

Instead, there are a number of tables for braking distances. You may want to memorize these, but if you learn that the braking distance (at maximum braking) on dry asphalt at 20 km/h is 4 meters, then you can calculate the braking distances for other speeds, and for different types of road. We'll look at how.

How do you calculate the change in braking distance?

It is the motorcycle's kinetic energy that is responsible for the change in braking distance. Just as kinetic energy changes with the square of the change in speed, braking distance changes with the square of the change in speed.

To calculate the change in braking distance, you must first find the change in speed. You find the change in speed by dividing the new speed by the old speed. Since the braking distance changes with the square of the change in speed, you must multiply the change in speed by itself.

To find the braking distance after the speed change, multiply the braking distance before the change by the square of the speed change, which you just calculated.

Example

You make an emergency brake at 20 km/h. The braking distance is 2 meters. What would the braking distance have been if the speed was 40 km/h?
The speed change from 20 km/h to 40 km/h: new speed / old speed = 40 km/h / 20 km/h = 2
The square of the change in speed: 2 x 2 = 4
The braking distance after the speed change = the braking distance before the speed change x the square of the speed change, i.e.: 2 meters x 4 = 8 meters
The braking distance at 40 km/h would be 8 meters.

Remember!

Braking distance changes much more than speed.
If you double your speed, the braking distance quadruples. If you halve your speed, the braking distance is reduced to a quarter. If you multiply your speed by three, the braking distance becomes a full nine times longer!
On wet summer roads, the emergency braking distance can be almost twice as long as on dry summer roads.
In normal winter conditions, the emergency braking distance can be as much as four times longer than in dry summer conditions.

Calculating stop length

The stopping distance is the sum of the reaction distance and the braking distance. The stopping distance tells you how long you travel from the time you notice a danger until the motorcycle has stopped completely. For example, if the reaction distance is 10 meters and the braking distance is 20 meters, the stopping distance is 30 meters.

When calculating the increase in stopping distance from one speed to another, you must remember that

reaction time increases with the change in speed
braking distance increases with the square of the change in speed

Example

You are driving at 40 km/h. The reaction distance is 11 meters and the braking distance is 8 meters. What would the stopping distance be if the speed was 80 km/h?

The change in speed from 40 km/h to 80 km/h: 80 km/h / 40 km/h = 2

Reaction length at 80 km/h: 11 meters x 2 = 22 meters

Braking distance at 80 km/h: 8 meters x (2 x 2) = 32 meters

Stopping distance at 80 km/h: 22 meters + 32 meters = 54 meters

The stopping distance therefore goes from 19 meters at 40 km/h to 54 meters at 80 km/h.

7. Driving

7.5 Speed and distance (1/2)

Speed blindness

In traffic, it is not only difficult to estimate the speed of other road users, it is also difficult to estimate your own speed.

Speed blindness is something that all drivers experience and means that you are driving at a higher speed than you think. Speed blindness is dangerous because it gives us much less time than expected to observe and react (of course, the braking distance also becomes much longer).

Speed blindness is most often experienced when:

You drive for a long time at a high and steady speed.
The road is wide, clear and the landscape is open or monotonous.

To avoid the dangerous consequences of speed blindness, you should especially:

Check your own speed on the speedometer.
Brake firmly down to the new speed when the speed limit changes.
Gear down.
Check speed by looking to the side.

Distance assessment

A common but dangerous misconception

Studies show that we as drivers tend to believe that the distance to oncoming vehicles is longer than it actually is. You need to take this into account, for example, when overtaking - oncoming road users are usually much closer than you perceive them to be.

We also believe that the speed of oncoming vehicles is lower than it actually is. When the distance to oncoming traffic is more than 300 meters, we have difficulty distinguishing between a car traveling at 50 km/h and a car traveling at 80 km/h.

How far away is the oncoming car and how fast is it going?

Remember this in particular:

We are not good at perceiving other people's speed.
We often believe that oncoming vehicles are further away than they actually are.
We often believe that oncoming vehicles are traveling at a slower speed than they actually are.
It is especially difficult to assess the speed of small vehicles such as motorcycles and mopeds, which are coming straight at you.
Misperception of distance and speed can lead to dangerous situations, for example when turning left at an intersection. The danger is that we have much less time to cross the road than we think.

8. Driving in the city

8.0 Introduction

Driving in the city

In the city, traffic is often heavy, there are many intersections and one-way streets, and many vehicles have to change lanes. There are also many slow-moving road users that you have to be aware of at all times.

Therefore, you must pay particular attention to the distance to other road users and your position on the roadway.

In addition, you must have a good knowledge of the yield rules and knowledge of how to deal with cars, buses, trams and pedestrians.

The rules for stopping and parking are of course especially important when driving in the city.

In Chapter 8 we address the following topics:

8.1 Distance
8.2 Location (intersection, roundabout, multi-lane road, etc.)
8.3 Duty to yield
8.4 Stopping and parking

8. Driving in the city

8.1 Distance (1/2)

How much distance should you keep?

Traffic rules

The Traffic Regulations contain a general provision regarding distance to the vehicle in front which states:

The distance to the vehicle in front should be large enough that there is no risk of collision if the vehicle in front slows down or stops.
The distance should be such that overtaking vehicles can enter between the vehicles without danger.

For your own safety

As we saw in the chapter on track selection and positioning, distance is also about ensuring enough room to maneuver to be able to perform an evasive maneuver, a sudden brake, or other technical actions.

Traffic rules

Actually "Regulations on driving and pedestrian traffic." The traffic rules include rules on positioning, the duty to give way, special speed regulations, overtaking, stopping and parking.

The 3-second rule

Exactly how much distance you need to maintain must be assessed from situation to situation. A rule of thumb is that you should have at least 3 seconds of distance to the vehicle in front.

In many situations you will need more than 3 seconds of distance:

On slippery roads, braking distance increases dramatically and the need for distance increases.
If your speed is higher than 80 km/h, increased reaction time will mean that you need more than 3 seconds of distance to the vehicle in front.
If you have heavier vehicles behind you, or vehicles behind you are unreasonably close, you yourself need a greater distance than 3 seconds since you would not be able to perform an emergency brake without risking being hit from behind.

8. Driving in the city

8.2 Location (intersection, roundabout, multi-lane road, etc.) (1/6)

Positioning in the roadway - main rules

Correct positioning on the road is of course very important for both drivers and motorcyclists, but for you as a motorcyclist, positioning on the road is extra important.

Proper positioning gives other road users good information about what you plan to do and helps avoid conflicts with other road users.

In Chapter 4 we looked at how you should normally position yourself within your own lane on a road with one lane in each direction. Now we will look at the Traffic Regulations' provisions on positioning on multi-lane roads, positioning at intersections, etc.

How you should position yourself in the roadway is partly regulated in the Traffic Rules:

As far as conditions allow, vehicles should be driven on the right side of the road.
On a road with two or more lanes in the direction of travel, the right lane must be used when the Traffic Regulations do not require or permit the use of the left lane.
Vehicles must be kept well within the lane.
Bicycles or other non-motorized vehicles may be driven on the right shoulder of the road.

Two-wheelers can also use the public transport area.

Vehicle

Carriageway

The carriageway is the part of the road that is designated for normal driving (the area between the curb lines).

Lane

A lane is each of the longitudinal lanes into which a roadway is divided by markings, or which is wide enough for traffic with a single line of vehicles.

Road shoulder

The shoulder is the part of the road that lies outside the curb line. The shoulder is not intended for motorized vehicles. Pedestrians should generally walk on the shoulder and cyclists may choose to ride on the shoulder.

Rules for changing lanes and other lateral movement

As soon as you change your position in the lane, or between lanes, you must be aware of the traffic behind you. Rules for changing lanes and other lateral movements are regulated in the Traffic Rules.

When changing lanes, you are required to give way to traffic in the lane you are entering. Similarly, you are required to give way when pulling off the side of the road or making another lateral movement. Note that this provision does not apply when the number of regular lanes in the same direction is reduced (see "Narrowing to fewer lanes").
Since you have the duty to yield not only to oncoming traffic, but also to traffic from behind, you must always check your mirrors and blind spot before turning out.
If you have to change lanes due to an obstacle in the road, you have a duty to yield to oncoming traffic.
The rules on yielding require you to clearly indicate to other road users that you intend to yield. Therefore, you must be confident that you can change lanes or move sideways without obstructing others or creating dangerous situations. Turn out in good time to improve visibility and to let others understand what is happening.

Duty to yield

The duty to yield is a duty not to obstruct or interfere with traffic to which you have a duty to yield. If you have a duty to yield, you also have a duty to show that you will comply with your duty to yield. Who has the right to drive and who must yield is defined in the traffic regulations.

8. Driving in the city

8.2 Location (intersection, roundabout, multi-lane road, etc.) (2/6)

Positioning when turning at an intersection

Being seen and understood is an important part of the "seeing rules".

When turning at an intersection, you should therefore show your fellow road users what you plan to do well in advance:

Inform other road users by adjusting your speed and signaling (turn signals and possibly brake lights) well in advance of the turn.
Position yourself well on the side you want to turn to.
Remember to check your mirrors and blind spots before positioning yourself to the right/left so that there is no conflict with other road users.

The Se rules

Seeing and being seen are crucial in traffic. The See rules address this and consist of five points:

Look far ahead
Move your gaze
Take an overview
Always look for a way out
Be seen and understood

Blind spot

The blind spot, also called the blind spot, is the area around the vehicle that cannot be seen in the mirrors or by looking out the window from the driver's cab.

Turning at intersections - when you need to turn left

When turning left at an intersection:

Inform other road users by giving signals (turn signals and brake lights, if applicable), by positioning yourself towards the center of the roadway and by reducing your speed well in advance of turning.
Do not position yourself so far to the left of the roadway that you obstruct oncoming traffic.
When both you and the oncoming vehicle are going to their left, it is best if you drive to the left of each other to facilitate traffic flow.
Pay particular attention to any vehicles behind the first oncoming car. Unfortunately, it happens all too often that someone turns left at an intersection without spotting an oncoming two-wheeler going straight ahead (which has been hidden behind another vehicle).
If oncoming vehicles are going straight ahead, you have the obligation to give way to them - and must therefore wait to turn until the oncoming vehicle has passed.
Be aware of any pedestrians crossing the street you are about to enter.

Turning at intersections - when you need to turn right

When turning right at an intersection:

Inform other road users by giving signals (turn signals and possibly brake lights), by positioning yourself against the shoulder/curb and by reducing your speed well in advance before you turn.
When you position yourself right next to the shoulder or curb, you avoid having other two-wheelers on the inside of you. This eliminates the risk of conflict (if the other two-wheeler is going straight ahead at the intersection where you are going to turn right, you could risk the two-wheeler driving into you when you turn).
Be sure to make the right turn so tight that you do not obstruct oncoming traffic in the road you are turning into.
Be aware of any pedestrians crossing the street you are about to enter.

8. Driving in the city

8.2 Location (intersection, roundabout, multi-lane road, etc.) (3/6)

Multiple lanes in the same direction

The traffic rules state that, as a general rule, you should use the right lane on roads with two or more lanes in the direction of travel.

When required or permitted by traffic regulations, you may still use the middle or left lane. As signs and road markings take precedence over traffic regulations (remember the authority pyramid), you must comply with these if signs and/or road markings on the spot permit or require the use of the middle or left lane.

Remember that the yield rules for lateral movement also apply when changing lanes in the same direction of travel.

Traffic regulations allow or require the use of the left or middle lane in some cases:

The middle or left lane can be used when overtaking.
The middle or left lane can be used when traffic is heavy, to improve traffic flow.
Before turning left, the left lane must be used.

Lane

A lane is each of the longitudinal lanes into which a roadway is divided by markings, or which is wide enough for traffic with a single line of vehicles.

The pyramid of authority

Traffic flow is regulated through traffic rules, signs, markings, light regulation and manual traffic control. This hierarchy is called the authority pyramid, and tells what/who decides if regulations are missing or conflict with each other. The authority pyramid is as follows:

Police
Light signal
Traffic signs and road markings
Traffic rules

Lateral displacement

A lateral movement means any change in the vehicle's position on the road in a lateral direction, for example when changing lanes, pulling off the side of the road, driving around an obstacle in the road or similar.

When moving sideways, you are required to give way to road users who are already in the lane you wish to enter.

Driving in public transport lanes

As a motorcyclist, you are allowed to ride in the public transport lane. This is especially beneficial when traffic gets congested during rush hour.

Since the public transport lane is primarily intended for buses and taxis, it makes sense to drive in a way that does not obstruct them. Also, be sure to give way to emergency vehicles during an emergency that use the public transport lane, as they can come at high speeds and are dependent on drivers in the public transport lane being aware of them.

Remember that you can easily become invisible to drivers in the lane to the left of the public transport lane. Many people don't think about the possibility of two-wheelers in the public transport lane, and when the lane changes to a regular lane, they cross over without first checking their blind spot.

Collective field

A public transport lane is a lane that is primarily designed for buses or buses and taxis. However, electric or hydrogen-powered motor vehicles, two-wheeled motorcycles without sidecars, two-wheeled mopeds, bicycles or uniformed emergency vehicles can also drive in the public transport lane.

One-way streets

In one-way streets, there is often room for two vehicles in the same direction. In this case, the location rules for multi-lane roads apply.

If you are turning left from a one-way street, you should therefore position yourself in the left lane of the road well in advance. As usual, you have the duty to give way when moving sideways.

If the road is too narrow for two vehicles to pass, you should follow the general rule of thumb for positioning, which states that you should keep to the right of the lane when turning right or straight ahead and stay to the left of the lane when turning left.

When driving in the left lane on a one-way street, you must pay attention to:

That pedestrians and cyclists often don't know they are on a one-way street, and are therefore not prepared for you to come driving in the left lane
Where the one-way street ends at an intersection, traffic from the left may not be prepared for you coming in the left lane.

8. Driving in the city

8.2 Location (intersection, roundabout, multi-lane road, etc.) (4/6)

Roundabout

Many people are unsure about the rules for driving on roundabouts. It may be a little easier for you to know that in traffic regulations, a roundabout is considered a regular intersection.

Just like at regular intersections, it is important that you send clear signals to your fellow road users:

Give signs in good time
Position yourself correctly before the roundabout
Adjust your speed to get an overview and to show others that you will comply with the duty to yield.

Duty to yield at roundabouts

Roundabouts are marked with yield signs. This means that you have a duty to yield to traffic inside the roundabout. As usual, yield means that the person you are giving way to should not be obstructed or disturbed.

Adjust your speed well in advance of the roundabout. This will make it easier to observe any pedestrians before and after the roundabout and will show road users in the roundabout that you will comply with your duty to give way.

In roundabouts with multiple lanes, you must also remember that you have the right of way when changing lanes and other lateral movements. Therefore, you must check your mirrors and blind spots carefully before moving between lanes in a roundabout.

Signs and signals

Signs and signals are used to provide information to other road users.

Signals are turn signals and brake lights. You give signals to inform other road users of what you are doing.
Signaling means using the car's horn or flashing lights (flashing the high beams/turning on the hazard warning lights). Signaling is only used to warn or avert danger.

Blind spot

The blind spot, also called the blind spot, is the area around the vehicle that cannot be seen in the mirrors or by looking out the window from the driver's cab.

When turning right at a roundabout

When turning right at a roundabout, you should always stay in the right lane - regardless of whether there are one or two lanes in the roundabout.

How to drive:

Turn on your right turn signal well before you reach the roundabout. This will let other road users know that you are turning right at the roundabout.
Position yourself on the right in your own lane and slow down to gain an overview and to show others that you will comply with the duty to yield.
Enter the roundabout when you have a large enough gap and then turn straight out of the roundabout.
Be aware of any pedestrians in the crosswalk when exiting the roundabout.

When going straight ahead in a roundabout

Straight ahead at a roundabout with one lane in the direction of travel:

Position yourself on the right in your own lane and slow down to gain an overview and to show others that you will comply with the duty to yield.
Enter the roundabout when you have a large enough gap.
Turn on your right turn signal as you pass the first exit from the roundabout. This will allow everyone else to see that you are about to turn out of the roundabout and allow oncoming traffic to enter the roundabout.
Be aware of any pedestrians in the crosswalk when exiting the roundabout.

Straight ahead at the roundabout with two lanes in the direction of travel:

As a general rule, you should park in the right lane towards the roundabout. Information boards and road markings will tell you if you can also use the left lane.
If you choose the left lane (when going straight ahead), you must change lanes in the roundabout before you exit the roundabout. Remember that you are then required to give way when changing lanes. Also remember that you must use your turn signals (as you must always do when changing lanes).

When turning left at a roundabout

Left at a roundabout with one lane in the direction of travel:

Turn on your left turn signal well before you reach the roundabout. This will let other road users know that you are going through the roundabout and turning left.
Position yourself on the left in your own lane and slow down to gain an overview and to show others that you will comply with the duty to yield.
Enter the roundabout when you have a large enough gap.
Turn on your right turn signal when you have passed the second-to-last exit.
Be aware of any pedestrians in the crosswalk when exiting the roundabout.

To the left at a roundabout with two lanes in the direction of travel:

When turning left on a roundabout with two lanes, you should position yourself in the left lane facing the roundabout.
When you pass the second-to-last exit, you must change from the left lane to the right lane to exit the roundabout. Remember that you are then required to give way when changing lanes.

8. Driving in the city

8.2 Location (intersection, roundabout, multi-lane road, etc.) (5/6)

Signage and field selection

Location will in some cases be controlled by signs that instruct you to choose a specific lane.

Mandatory lane

This sign shows which lane you must choose. The sign is very often used on small medians to emphasize which side they should be passed on.

Optional lane

This sign informs you that you can freely choose which lane you want to use and is typically used on one-way streets with multiple lanes.

Mandatory driving direction

This sign shows in which direction you must leave the intersection. If there are multiple lanes in the same direction, you must orient yourself in relation to the lane you are in. The sign is usually placed together with road markings that show the same corresponding arrows for the intersection, but both the sign and the arrows can also stand alone.

Mandatory roundabout

This sign indicates that the rules for roundabouts apply, and the arrows show which direction you must take in the roundabout. The sign is almost always accompanied by a yield sign, which warns that you must yield to drivers already in the roundabout.

Normally, you should stay in the right lane if you are going right or straight ahead, and in the left lane if you are going left, but signs may require or allow otherwise.

Lane

A lane is each of the longitudinal lanes into which a roadway is divided by markings, or which is wide enough for traffic with a single line of vehicles.

8. Driving in the city

8.3 Duty to yield (1/5)

What is the duty to yield?

The duty to yield is the obligation to hold back for other road users. We will take a closer look at what the duty to yield involves and who has the duty to yield when meeting road users in different situations. Let's first see what we actually mean by yielding.

The road user who must yield must not be obstructed or disturbed.

Having the duty to yield means that you do not obstruct or interfere with the road user to whom you have the duty to yield, and the duty to yield arises precisely when your continued driving would obstruct or interfere with another road user. If you do not risk interfering with another road user, you also do not have the duty to yield.

The person who has the duty to give way must clearly demonstrate that they will comply with the duty to give way.

Slow down in good time so that other road users understand that you will comply with the duty to yield. If the person you have the duty to yield to has to slow down because they are unsure of what you are going to do, you have disturbed the road user and thereby violated the duty to yield.

Duty to yield

The right-wing rule

The main rule for the duty to yield is the right-of-way rule. The right-of-way rule means that:

Unless signs or other rules indicate otherwise, you are required to give way to traffic coming from the right.
The same applies if you are going to turn left at an intersection and because of the turn you will have road users on your right.

Everyone must step aside!

Sometimes you will find yourself in a situation where everyone has to give way to everyone else. Who should go first?

This is cooperation in practice: In principle, the person who arrives at the intersection first in such a situation should take the initiative to drive first, but it is absolutely crucial that you have clearly shown your intentions and that the other road users show signs of giving way.

8. Driving in the city

8.3 Duty to yield (2/5)

Duty to give way - when coming from special places

When coming from the following places, you always have the duty to give way to other road users:

Parking space
Stop
Square
Property
Gas station
Pedestrian street
Street yard or similar area
Farm road or other road that is not open to general traffic

Pedestrians must give way

Pedestrians are particularly protected through various provisions in the Traffic Regulations. These provisions are strictly enforced by the police.

Important rules regarding the duty to give way to pedestrians and cyclists:

At pedestrian crossings where traffic is not regulated by police or at traffic lights, drivers must give way to pedestrians who are in - or are about to enter - the crosswalk. Drivers must also avoid stopping at the crosswalk.
Drivers who want to turn must give way to pedestrians or cyclists who are going straight ahead on the roadway or shoulder of the road.
Drivers who want to turn onto a sidewalk must give way to pedestrians and cyclists who are traveling on the sidewalk.
Drivers crossing a walkway or sidewalk must give way to pedestrians. You also have a duty to give way to pedestrians when driving in a pedestrian zone or on a street corner.
Anyone who wants to pass to the right of a tram at a stop without a traffic island must stop and give way (obligation to stop) to passengers who are getting off or getting on.

Duty to give way - clear path

Free way:

To facilitate access for some special road users, traffic rules require the rest of us to give them the right of way.
Giving way means you should do what you can to let them through and reduce the risk of accidents by swerving to the side and possibly stopping.

When driving, you must give way to:

Emergency vehicles with blue lights on (police, ambulance and fire department).
Trams and railway trains (but trams must give way to other traffic where separate tram-give-way signs have been set up).

You shall also not obstruct or interfere with:

Group of walkers under leadership.
Military or civil defense column.
Funeral procession or procession.

8. Driving in the city

8.3 Duty to yield (3/5)

Yield and right-of-way signs

Traffic rules do not always provide the most appropriate traffic flow. From the authority pyramid, you may remember that signs take precedence over traffic rules, and you must therefore be familiar with the various yield and right-of-way signs that override traffic rules.

Duty to yield

When you reach this sign, you must yield to traffic coming from both the right and left. Very often there will be a yield line marking where you should stop at the intersection.
Be aware that a yield sign does not necessarily mean that the intersecting road is a right-of-way.

Stop

This sign informs you that you must come to a complete stop before the intersection. You must stop at the stop line – or as close to the intersecting road as possible if there is no stop line or it is not visible due to snow/ice, etc. Please note that you must come to a complete stop before you can enter the intersecting road.
The sign also indicates that you have the right of way for road users coming from both the right and left.
The sign is used at particularly dangerous or confusing intersections.

Yield line

A yield line is a transverse road marking consisting of triangles that mark the stopping point for yielding at an intersection. Yield lines are also used when entering roundabouts.

Driveway

A right-of-way is a road marked with the sign "right-of-way". If you are driving on a right-of-way, drivers coming from a side road or intersecting road are required to give way through a right-of-way sign or stop sign.

Stop line

A stop line is a transverse line that indicates where vehicles must stop when a public traffic sign or traffic light signal requires stopping. The line is solid.

Right-of-way and right-of-way intersection

On larger and more heavily trafficked roads, it would be advantageous to dispense with the usual right-of-way requirement, as this would provide a much better flow of traffic. Such roads are marked with the sign "right-of-way" and are simply called right-of-way.

Driveway

This sign indicates that road users coming from a side road or intersecting road are required to give way through a yield sign or stop sign. The sign is normally repeated after each intersection so that road users coming from a side road are informed that they are now driving on a right-of-way.
A right-of-way is terminated by the sign "End of right-of-way" or by a yield sign or stop sign.
Even if you are not required to yield to road users coming from a side road, you are still required to yield to oncoming traffic if you are turning left from the right-of-way.

Right-of-way intersection

The sign warns of a dangerous intersection and informs that drivers driving from a side road or intersecting road are required to give way through a yield sign or stop sign.
The sign only applies to the next intersection and says nothing about whether you are driving on a right-of-way or not.
Note that the sign is shaped like a hazard sign. The distance from the sign to the intersection itself also follows the speed limit in the same way as hazard signs.

Driveway

Oncoming traffic and the duty to yield

On stretches of road where the road is too narrow for two vehicles to pass each other safely, signs are often posted to regulate who can drive first. Since a motorcycle is much narrower than a car, situations where one of the oncoming vehicles actually has to stop are rare.

Duty to yield to oncoming traffic

The sign indicates a prohibition against driving onto a narrow stretch of road if such driving results in oncoming traffic being obstructed.
Note that the sign is also shaped like a prohibition sign.

Oncoming traffic has the right of way

The sign indicates that oncoming traffic is required to yield by sign.
Note that the sign is also shaped like an information sign.

A good rule of thumb is that the red arrow represents the road user who must yield.

Sub-sign for yield and right-of-way signs

Course of the right-of-way

In places where the right-of-way follows a different course than what might be expected, there are often signs below showing where the right-of-way goes.
A thick line indicates the right-of-way, while a thin line indicates roads that have a right-of-way (and where there is a right-of-way or stop sign).

Signs governing the duty to yield

We have a number of signs that govern who has the right of way for whom. These take precedence over the general rules on the right of way.

8. Driving in the city

8.3 Duty to yield (4/5)

Backing and turning

You always have the obligation to give way to other road users when backing up or turning.

Other important rules and recommendations regarding reversing and turning are:

Reversing and U-turns are prohibited on motorways and expressways or on the entrance or exit to motorways and expressways. If for some reason you have ended up in the wrong lane and are entering the motorway, you must instead drive back onto the next exit.
It is of course also forbidden to turn around and turn around where there is a sign saying "No turning", although it may be tempting since a motorcycle is so much more maneuverable than a car. The no turning applies until the next intersection.

Motorway

A motorway is a road designed for high speeds and heavy traffic. To avoid dangers and problems with traffic flow, a motorway must meet a number of requirements.

Motorway

An expressway is a road that is designed for high speeds, but does not have the same quality and safety level as a motorway.

The same traffic rules apply to both motorways and expressways, but there are different design requirements. For example, traffic in opposite directions does not have to be separated by physical barriers, and there may be fewer than two lanes in each direction.

For both motorways and expressways, there is a requirement that properties along the road do not have direct access to the road.

Duty to yield at roundabouts

In most roundabouts

In Norway, almost all roundabouts are marked with yield signs. This means that you usually have a duty to yield to drivers in the roundabout. As usual, the duty to yield means that the person you are giving way to should not be obstructed or disturbed. Therefore, keep your speed low enough on the way to the roundabout so that it is perceived that you are yielding.

More fields

In roundabouts with multiple lanes, you must also remember that you have the duty to give way when changing lanes and moving sideways. Therefore, you must check your mirrors and blind spot carefully before moving sideways in a roundabout.

There are roundabouts that are not marked with yield signs. In these cases, the normal right-of-way rule applies. This means that vehicles in the roundabout must yield to vehicles entering the roundabout.

Traffic lights and the right of way

When the traffic lights are flashing yellow or are out of order:

When the traffic light is flashing yellow or when the traffic light is out of order, signs or the general yield rules apply.

If there are yield signs at the intersection in question, you must comply with the yield signs. If there are no yield signs, the general yield rules apply.

Remember that when there is a flashing yellow light at a pedestrian crossing, you will always have the obligation to give way to pedestrians in - or on their way out of - the crosswalk.

Left at a traffic light.

Left at traffic lights

When you have a green light but are about to turn left, you have the obligation to give way to pedestrians crossing the road you are about to enter - and the obligation to give way to oncoming traffic.

Right at traffic lights

When you have a green light but are about to turn right, you must yield to pedestrians crossing the road you are about to enter.

Traffic light with arrow signal

The arrow signal applies to those who want to drive in the direction the arrow is pointing. If you are going to turn in the direction of the arrow signal, you are not required to yield to anyone (the pedestrians in the road you are going to turn into will be given a "red man").

8. Driving in the city

8.4 Stopping and parking (1/4)

Stopping and parking

Stopping and parking on public roads are usually regulated through provisions in traffic regulations, as well as signage.

What is considered parking?

In the traffic regulations, parking is defined as any parking of a vehicle, even if the driver does not leave it. The exception is the shortest possible stop for getting on or off, or loading or unloading.

What is considered a stoppage?

Regarding stopping, the traffic rules state that any parking and stopping of a vehicle, even if the driver does not leave it, is considered a stop. The exception is a so-called traffic stop.

Example of stopping and parking

If you stop to drop off a person, this is considered stopping according to traffic regulations, but not parking. You are therefore allowed to stop to drop off a passenger in a place where a No Parking sign is in effect.
However, you are not allowed to stop to drop off a person where a No Stopping sign applies.

Remember!

In addition to the traffic regulations' provisions regarding parking, you must also take into account the basic rules of traffic when stopping or parking.

You should therefore not stop or park in such a way that it could cause danger or in such a way that you unnecessarily obstruct or disrupt other traffic.

You are also required to “take appropriate measures” to prevent unauthorized use of the vehicle. This means, among other things, that you must lock the vehicle when you leave it.

Traffic stop

A traffic stop is a natural stop as a result of the traffic situation, such as stopping at a yield point, red light, traffic jam, etc.

Basic traffic rules

Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act is called the basic rules for traffic. The law states:

Everyone must travel with consideration and be alert and cautious so that no danger arises or damage is caused and so that other traffic is not unnecessarily obstructed or disrupted.

Road users must also show consideration for those who live or stay by the road.

This is the basis for all traffic behavior. Many people are punished for violating it.

Traffic rules about stopping

It is prohibited to stop in the following places:

In a blind curve, in a tunnel, on a hilltop or in another blind spot.
At intersections or closer than 5 meters from the intersection. The distance is calculated from the point where the curb, edge or road edge begins to curve.
Entirely or partially on sidewalk, walkway or cycle path.
At pedestrian or bicycle crossings or closer than 5 meters in front of such places.
On a motorway or expressway or on an entry or exit road to a motorway or expressway.
Closer than 5 meters from a level crossing.
In public transport lanes, shared use lanes or cycle lanes, except for buses or trams at stops.
On a road widening for a bus, taxi or tram stop or closer than 20 metres from a public traffic sign for such a stop. An exception is getting on or off when it does not obstruct a bus, taxi or tram.

Stopping in tunnels is prohibited.

Motorway

A motorway is a road designed for high speeds and heavy traffic. To avoid dangers and problems with traffic flow, a motorway must meet a number of requirements.

Motorway

An expressway is a road that is designed for high speeds, but does not have the same quality and safety level as a motorway.

For both motorways and expressways, there is a requirement that properties along the road do not have direct access to the road.

Traffic rules regarding parking

In addition to the fact that it is prohibited to park where stopping is prohibited, there are some specific prohibition rules regarding parking.

Parking is prohibited.

in front of entrance or exit
at the meeting point across the entire width of the road as far as the carriageway is widened
in the pedestrian zone
on the street outside of specially designated areas
in the carriageway on a main road with a speed limit higher than 50 km/h

Please note that there is no prohibition against parking on the left side of the road, but the basic rules of traffic apply as always - and therefore it is only permitted to park on the other side of the road if it cannot cause danger or obstruct other road users.

You can stop to drop off passengers in a bus bay, but parking is prohibited.

Meeting place

On narrow roads where there is no room for oncoming traffic, the road may be widened in some places with so-called meeting points. Such meeting points are specially signposted.

Carriageway

The carriageway is the part of the road that is designated for normal driving (the area between the curb lines).

Pedestrian street

A pedestrian zone is a street that is marked with special pedestrian signs. In a pedestrian zone, you can only drive at walking speed, and parking is only allowed in specially marked spaces.

Street garden

A street in a residential area, primarily intended for pedestrians. Streets often have demarcated common areas with planting, a playground, and benches. Streets are marked with special street signs.

On the street, drivers must maintain walking speed and always give way to pedestrians.

Driveway

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Language

Driver's license

This chapter is about:

1. Driver's license

1.1 Traffic and accidents (1/2)

Traffic and accidents

Risk and conflicts of interest

Accidents

Prevent accidents

What can you do yourself to reduce the risk of accidents?

Elements that lead to increased competence

Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act states that:

1. Driver's license

1.2 Driving license classes (1/2)

Motorcycle driving license classes

Class A1 - Light motorcycle

Class A2 - Medium motorcycle

Class A - Heavy motorcycle

Class A1, A2 and A

3- and 4-wheel motorcycle/ATV

3-wheel motorcycle

4-wheel motorcycle

Tipping hazard

Other driver's license classes

1. Driver's license

1.3 The training (1/2)

Training - Steps 1 to 3

Step-by-step training

Step 1 - Basic traffic course

Step 2 - Basic vehicle skills – classes A1, A2 and A

Step 3 - Traffic competence and driving technique

Training - Step 4

Step 4

Step 4 - Road Safety Course Class A1:

Step 4 - Road Safety Course Class A2:

Step 4 - Road Safety Course Class A:

Driver's license extension

Extension of driving license from A1 to A2:

Extension of driving license from A1 to A:

Extension of driving license from A2 to A:

1. Driver's license

1.4 Conditions for practice driving (1/2)

Practice driving

Private practice run:

Ban period - consequences of illegal practice driving

2. The motorcycle

2.0 Introduction

The motorcycle

This chapter is about:

Decent condition

Regulatory condition

2. The motorcycle

2.1 Engine, exhaust and fuel system (1/2)

Engine

Internal combustion engine

Four-stroke engines

Two-stroke engines

Engine lubrication and cooling

Engine oil

Air-cooled and water-cooled engine

Cooling fins

Fuel system

Exhaust system

Safety check of engine, exhaust system and fuel system

Safety check - engine

Safety check - exhaust system

Safety check - fuel system

The theory test and the run-up

2. The motorcycle

2.2 Drivetrain, power transmission, frame and steering (1/3)

Chain

Chain maintenance

Tracking

Other types of power transmission

Timing belt drive

Cardan drive

2. The motorcycle

2.2 Drivetrain, power transmission, frame and steering (2/3)

Frame and rear frame/swingarm

Frame