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Motorcycle · Motorcycle Controls

What is the function of the left foot lever on a motorcycle?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

Gear shifter

  1. A Gear shifter
  2. B Clutch
  3. C Rear brake
  4. D Front brake

Why this is the answer

The left foot operates the gear shifter on a standard motorcycle, using the standard '1-down, rest-up' pattern: first gear is down (toe pressed down), neutral is between first and second (a half-click up from first), second through sixth are progressive clicks up. The right foot operates the rear brake. The hands operate the clutch (left lever) and front brake (right lever). The standard 1-N-2-3-4-5-6 shift pattern is essentially universal on modern motorcycles, including scooters with manual transmissions, sport bikes, cruisers, and adventure bikes. Some older or specialty motorcycles use different patterns, but new riders should expect the standard.
Source: MSF Basic RiderCourse, Shifting

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About this topic: Motorcycle Controls

Motorcycle controls questions cover the location and use of the throttle, clutch, front and rear brakes, gear shift, and the switches and gauges — the primary controls you must find without looking. This is one of 11 Motorcycle questions on motorcycle controls, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our Motorcycle exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

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