At what speeds does swerving around an obstacle generally occur?

Prepare for the Illinois Motorcycle Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get exam ready!

Swerving around an obstacle typically occurs at around 20 mph because this speed allows a motorcyclist to maintain control while effectively maneuvering to avoid a hazard. At this speed, the rider can apply the necessary steering inputs and body positioning to execute a swerve without losing stability or balance.

Going too slowly, such as at 10 mph, can make it difficult to initiate a swerve adequately as the motorcycle may not have enough momentum to stabilize during the maneuver. Conversely, swerving at higher speeds, like 30 mph or 45 mph, can be risky as the increased velocity requires sharper steering inputs and greater awareness of the motorcycle's dynamics. It becomes more challenging to control the bike in such a quick maneuver, which can lead to potential loss of control or difficulty in recovering after the swerve. Therefore, around 20 mph is the optimal speed for effectively swerving around obstacles while ensuring safety and control.

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