Motorcycle · Lane Positioning and SEE Strategy

What is the 'SEE' strategy used by motorcyclists?

  1. A Just a slogan with no specific meaning
  2. B Search, Evaluate, Execute — a defensive riding strategy: search the road for hazards, evaluate the risk and your options, execute the safest response
  3. C Speed, Efficiency, Engine — a riding performance idea
  4. D A specific cornering technique

Why this is the answer

SEE stands for Search, Evaluate, Execute — the core of motorcycle defensive riding. Search: actively scan the road for hazards — other vehicles, pedestrians, road surface issues, potential conflicts. Look 12-15 seconds ahead, scan mirrors every 5-10 seconds, and check intersections, driveways, and parked cars for movement. Evaluate: think about what could happen — could that car turn left in front of you, could that pothole be deeper than it looks, could that driver merge without seeing you. Execute: take action to reduce risk — adjust speed, change lane position, signal early, cover the brake. SEE is continuous; an experienced rider runs the loop constantly without consciously thinking about it.
Source: MSF Basic RiderCourse, SEE Strategy

Practice more questions

This question is from our Motorcycle Permit Practice Tests practice test. Take the full practice test to test your knowledge across all Lane Positioning and SEE Strategy and other topics.

Take the Practice Test practice test →

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

Related questions

State-specific guides

Need information for your state? Our state guides cover local requirements, fees, and what to expect on exam day.