What is the distance for the motorcycle slalom test?
3 Answers
The slalom test distance for motorcycles is as follows: for ordinary and light two-wheeled motorcycles, it is the vehicle length plus 50 centimeters; for three-wheeled motorcycles, it is the vehicle length plus 40 centimeters; for sidecar motorcycles, it is the vehicle length plus 80 centimeters. The distance between poles for two-wheeled motorcycles is generally 2.5 to 3 meters. Below is an introduction to the slalom test: Precautions: After starting the slalom, it is important to find the correct angle and speed for entering. If the angle is too large or the speed is too fast, there may not be enough turning space, causing the vehicle to cross the width limit line. The correct approach is to enter from the middle position between the sideline and the pole in first or second gear. After entering, proper coordination of the throttle and clutch is necessary, maintaining a semi-engaged state as much as possible to allow timely power cut-off for adjustments. Throttle application should be smooth and gentle. If the vehicle position does not match expectations, avoid sudden hard braking. Throughout this process, the principle of 'slow' should be followed. However, this 'slow' should be within the limits of maintaining balance. General requirements: navigate through 5 poles in an S-shape with a spacing of 2.5 meters. The white lines on both sides are a little over 1 meter wide. Crossing the line, hitting a pole, or stalling will result in failure. After completing the slalom, circle around and return through the poles again.
When I took my motorcycle license test back then, I specifically researched the slalom course standards - the distance between cones is 2.5 meters. The test field arranges 5 cones in a straight line, with exactly 2.5 meters vertical distance between the center points of front and rear cones. During practice, pay special attention to the bike's lean angle. A 125cc motorcycle has a turning radius of about 1.8 meters, so you need to start steering half a meter before entering the cones. Instructors always say this distance perfectly tests control skills without being overly difficult - touching any cone means instant failure. They recommend beginners first practice with chalk-marked spacing on the ground to get familiar with turning rhythm before using actual cones, ensuring smooth performance during the actual test.
Last week, I accompanied my friend to the driving practice field and observed the actual test setup. The distance between the exam stakes was uniformly set at 2.5 meters. Five red-and-white striped poles stood on the concrete ground, each with a diameter of about 7-8 centimeters. The field markings were exceptionally clear, with the boundary lines positioned half a meter away from the outermost poles. My friend practiced on a 250cc street bike and felt the distance was slightly tight, while it was much easier on a lightweight motorcycle. The key is to maintain a steady speed below 15 km/h, keeping the rearview mirrors about 20 centimeters away from the poles for optimal safety. The coach secretly told me that sensors are now installed for exams—touching the lines with the wheels results in immediate point deductions, making it much stricter than in our time.
