Pennsylvania Motorcycle Skills Test
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- Опубликовано: 11 сен 2024
- Here's my video from when I took the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Skills Test. Quick stats are:
Weave test - 3 cones, 20 ft apart
Figure of Eight - size of test area is 27 ft x 45 ft, though I was able to get the box extended an additional 12 ft for a total of 27 ft x 57 ft
If any of you are reading this and you’re about to take your test remember to have eye protection or put your visor down! I took mine today and failed because my visor was up and I did everything else perfect. Just some advice for you guys....good luck
Ha happened to me...if you are worried about forgetting just wear glasses he told me after....the instructor asked me to flip up the visor to speak with him then I forgot to put it back down...instant fail!
Considering helments aren't required by law, you'd think they'd let that slide.
Frank Hubbard IV correct however for someone with a permit a helmet is required, and you need eye protection if you don’t wear a helmet
Are you able to stick one leg out when making the turn ? I find it makes it easier, or does both feet need to still on the peg ?
@@gurpalsingh3695 I do not believe so, I think you just can't put your foot on the ground more than once and you cannot go outside the box more than once.
Hey Johnny V. , thanks for posting this video and taking the time to get the proper measurements. Great info !
A REALLY Great Video -- but I would like to add some additional/different information. As you noted, Google doesn't turn up a lot of info and the DOT seems to be fairly "tight lipped" about the particulars of the test. I recently passed @ Dublin test center after failing my first attempt. From what I can piece together, the box for the figure 8 changes based on size of the bike with 650cc being a break point for smaller bikes.
On my first try, when asked the size of my bike before the test I told them "650" and then asked why. I was told "larger than 650 gets the larger box". I jokingly said: "Oh did I say 650 ? I meant to say 651...". The examiner laughed, but I got the smaller box, and practiced on the dimensions of the larger box, failed.
Out of curiosity, I checked my owners manual, expecting to see something like 648 or 649 for the actual engine size, expecting the manufacturer would 'round-up' and to my surprise, my bike is actually 652. When asked this time I said '652' (and had the manual to prove, although he didn't look). The examiner seemed to dismiss my insights (that that was the break point and I get the bigger box) -- even suggesting that the first examiner was wrong , but I did get the "bigger box".
The Dublin small box is 30x35 (I measured). The one the time was (I'm guessing) 30x45'.
Also there is a comment by someone who got burned by the 'cone weaving' spacing being only 10' apart.
I had 4 cones and they were about 10' apart. It could have been 12'. It is impossible to say as the examiner 'walked them off'.
But they were definitely nowhere near 20' apart.
As he walked them off, I counted 5 paces between each, so it would depend on his step. my guess 2'.
If there were makings, I couldn't see them.
The good news is that it appears the DOT recognizes different size bikes and adjusts their testing accordingly.
The bad news is they don't seem to want to share, so my best guess is that there are 3 breaks --
650 and under
> 650
> 1000 or something up that way (why you got the bigger box when you asked)
and the figure 8 box and the cone distance changes based on engine size.
Finally, I found the 'backtracking' suggestion from 'SciencetoyMaker' (under 'extras') *really* helpful especially when I thought I might be facing the smaller box again.
good luck !
So I just took this test at this location today, and I can say this video is wrong, and this instructor must have been new. There is one size box, it is the painted one, and even when I asked I was told there is nothing bigger even though I was on a 1200 Sportster with forward controls. The cones were also setup in this video for three wheelers, the motorcycle test they are about 8-10ft apart at most. Extreme;ly tight to get my big through them with the highway bar. Anyway, I passed on my first try, but if you are going to go off this video, you will be dissapointed. Also, I am 5'11". The box was 20x12 casual paces. I paced it out on Sunday, then went to an empty parking lot and did my figure 8's in a space that was about 16-8 paces. The Malvern test center in this video is not flat, so that is a heads up. You should go here on a Sunday or Monday, mess around, then practice somewhere flat to build muscle memory. Dont look at your front wheel, look at what you are circling with your figure 8's, dont use your front brake, and do ride the clutch. Practice like that and you will be fine, even with a 1200 I had room to spare.
What did test consist of, did they have you shift a few gears as well or just the cones and figure 8?
@@freakazoid2153 If I remember right it was two figure 8's without putting your feet down. They serpentine through the cones without making contact.
@@manayunkman83 3 figure 8s
For those of you in PA wondering what the figure 8 box size is, I highly recommend going to the location you're going to be taking the test at and measuring it yourself. I live near the Harrisburg DMV (23' x 35'/45'), but I'm taking the test next weekend at the Gettysburg DMV (27' x 34'/44'). On my gsxr750, the 23'x45' box is manageable, but certainly not easy. The 27'x44' is a cakewalk by comparison.
Thanks bro i appreciate that golden gem known as Gettysburg😂....live in Middletown 2 min from airport btw
I just went to the Lebanon DLC n measured their box the one was 27' wide.
For anyone struggling with figure of 8, you just need 3 things - Throttle, Clutch and Rear Brake. In 1st gear just modulate the clutch so you have enough forward momentum. Keep applying rear brake as needed. I found the rear brake to be the most useful in this exercise. Anytime you feel, you are stalling or going to fall just apply light throttle and the bike starts to erect itself. Make a box and practice, it's pretty easy. And do use the extremities of the width as well. Really helps.
What all is included in the skills test currently?
@Robert Wiley I am taking my test at the Norristown DMV next Tuesday morning. If the figure 8 portion is gone, what does the test consist of then?
I just got my test today and completed it and passed. The serpentine cones were between 8:00 and 10 ft apart in a straight line with no offsett at the bridgeville PA driver's course. I drive a 900 triumph. Went through the first cone and had to almost lay the bike down to get through the second cone. I told the instructor aren't they a little close? But I continued the course and passed. Good luck
I can barely get my 900 triumph to make the turn even with both feet on the ground. I’ve been riding motorcycles for years and this one has been the most difficult to maneuver tight areas by far. I finally take my skills test next week (to officially legalize my riding) and I’m nervous as hell.
I'm on a Harley Street bob, 1584cc, I went out in the parking lot at work and measured the first dimensions you had 27ft x 45ft, after a bit of practice I was able to consistently do the figure 8's, hope I get the extra room, don't want to fail that's for sure.
Did you get extra room
That's the Malvern DMV, thanks dude I live in Malvern now I can just go there do the exact thing and be prepared for the test :)
+Manoj Reddy that’s right - hope this helps!
Can confirm just got my permit today.
I wonder if with all the restrictions applied during this pandemic if this test is still like this at the Malvern DMV. I took my car test there about two months ago and the situation was totally different. They use this parking lot for both the whole car (which the instructor doesn't ride with you anymore, just observes from outside) test and motorcycle.
This is super helpful as it turns out that I have my test at this exact location next month. Thanks a lot.
+Ricky glad I could help!
I'll be taking my test in a month or so there as well. Thank god I have a little Suzuki Savage.
What location is This ?
The test actually starts with testing your knowledge of the controls.
I think this was the first video I watched before I even started practicing for the test.
Interesting video thanks! Congrats on passing the test. The skills test has changed a lot since I took it but that wsa 30yrs ago.
I failed my first time. The instructor gave me a 12 foot by 12 foot square. He extended it by 12x15'. I told him even if I walked the motorcycle it was impossible. It's been giving me much anxiety over this being I have to take it again. Sad part is I been on motorcycles since I was 8 years old. I'm now 40. I just kept getting permits. The location was Selingsgrove/Sunbury area. The instructor needs to not have a job!!!!!
I'm taking my test there on Monday, hopefully I don't run into the same instructor!
@@DoshJeller it was around the sunbury area. Around 322 11-15 roads
Maybe try a different place or time? The first time I failed the dude was pretty strict and seemed to be looking for a reason to fail. Second time the dude (diff guy same location) couldn't have cared less and didn't even make me use the square in the parking lot for the figure 8's. He seemed to only be half paying attention throughout.
Alternatively you could take the MC Safety course, its free and you can get your license on one of their smaller bikes at the end.
Also how do you keep getting permits? I was only able to get 3 in a 5 year period, and after my second one I went for the test instead of running out of permit time.
@@george-cann I got it done at a different location a while ago and it was a much bigger area they gave me. The instructor said the 12x12 was way to small and the guy didn't know what he was doing.
The first time I ever did it in Mercer pa like 20 years ago the guy said I had to have a steady throttle and never let off the throttle. Like it had to be one steady speed the entire time, which is basically impossible. Of course I failed. The guy behind me told the instructor he’s not even trying it because that’s impossible.
So that's it just cones and figure 8's . That should be easy for me next month when I take mine.
I passed last fall, I definitely ever thought it. I rode a 1600 bike but I passed with Flying colors!
Thanks for the video! I couldn't find anything about the skills test either and this is the most helpful video I've found yet on it
Glad I could help!
HOLY SHIT THATS MY DMV IN FRAZER. How lucky am I?
LOL, I thought the same thing! I'm about to take the test too, and was going to book it in Frazer! How crazy convenient to see it on the actual course I'll be taking it on! Did you pass?
That gave me some confidence. Just got the Permit today 😩
Did you take your test yet?
At test center where I took mine at I asked the test instructor if he could extend the box for he also and he said this is your box if you can’t handle your bike get a smaller one
Yea, this is what I'd expect the response to be. If you need to avoid an obstacle on the road or navigate your lanes you can't just ask those to move.
Awesome thank you, this is where I would go for mine and I ride a 2013 Sportster and I guess I better get practicing
Just passed mine today
Must be nice to be able to get the box extended. I stopped at my DMV today and no matter what you arrive in, the box size is 28x45. Not sure if the 28 is correct. He might have said 25. Then again, this was years ago and probably doesn't matter now. Could be a standard now and 1 size fits all. Not sure if I'm ever gonna be able to do it. May have to get my smaller scooter fixed for the test.
The distance for the cones is incorrect. That distance is for 3 wheels. 10 feet apart for 2 wheels.
So I just took this test at this location today, and I can say this video is wrong, and this instructor must have been new. There is one size box, it is the painted one, and even when I asked I was told there is nothing bigger even though I was on a 1200 Sportster with forward controls. The cones were also setup in this video for three wheelers, the motorcycle test they are about 8-10ft apart at most. Extremely tight to get my big through them with the highway bar. Anyway, I passed on my first try, but if you are going to go off this video, you will be dissapointed. Also, I am 5'11". The box was 20x12 casual paces. I paced it out on Sunday, then went to an empty parking lot and did my figure 8's in a space that was about 16-8 paces. The Malvern test center in this video is not flat, so that is a heads up. You should go here on a Sunday or Monday, mess around, then practice somewhere flat to build muscle memory. Dont look at your front wheel, look at what you are circling with your figure 8's, dont use your front brake, and do ride the clutch. Practice like that and you will be fine, even with a 1200 I had room to spare.
Yea, I was on my kawasaki 650, hit the last cone first time through and last on the return trip. This was at the Frazer dmv. Scheduled the next one at granite run. Will be working in that area the 29th..
Perfect this is the same location as mine gonna be. This spring
just the info I need to get my son ready.
Taking my test tomorrow hopefully the test is still the same. At this location is where I’m taking mine.
Very hard with a sport bike/super bike and had the small square not the full square. Going to use my friends super moto and kill it.
That is all there is to the test? I was going to just take the rider's course but I cant find a slot anywhere. Is there any nit-picky things they would fail you for? I have a sport bike so the figure 8's may be challenging.
+dcdcdc2210 I also tried to take the rider course but couldn't find a slot either. If anything, just go to your nearest licensing center after hours and practice the 8's. I actually think you'd do quite well on a sport bike.
Awesome, thanks for the feedback + the video. I had no idea what the test consisted of until watching this!
What is the address
I take my test in Dublin pa, on Oct 6th. And I have a big bike road star. I been in target parking lot doing Figure eights... i know i can do it but just need to keep practicing
Try to go to the actual center after hours to practice in the real box if you can.
@@TechStuff1 I furgered out how to beat the box, feather the cluch and foot brake, with no throttle... and killed it!
@@TechStuff1 m.ruclips.net/video/0ocBuvPtRTc/видео.html
What happens if you have an automatic
That's it?! 3 figure 8s and the weaving?
This took a little bit more weight off my chest I have my test this Friday and am hoping the instructor will be gentle and extend the box on me with my zx6r
I took my test up there and I have a harley heritage and I did the figure 8s in the yellow lines your bike should have been way easier to go in the box
Looks much simpler than the description of the MSF test at the end of the MSF course in PA. I'll find out this weekend.
Was the skills test all that hard?
Ever take your test?
Yo this helped a lot thank you for your effort!
I got failed today Its worst experience at this Malvern DMV. I got Indian Scout Bobber went to test today, three cones size is soo less damn. I said bike size is bigger it is not possible, the instructor did not even extended it. After the test instructor is saying yes your right bike is bigger it is not possible to cross it.
Instead he is asking me to get dirt bike and you can rent motorcycle at this store which located on Route 30. I am not sure if these local shops tied with these DMV instructors
Do you need to take a 2 wheel motorcycle test for the 3 wheels motorcycle test ? I'm not really interested in learning two wheels to be honest
Just gotta find a good place to test, my local DMV parking lot if full of pebbles.
Freaking scary but seems easy. My cdl was hardest. This ,this does look easy.
How bad was the pre trip inspection for your cdl
I took mine this past Friday, in the rain. Rode from honeybrook pa, but the cones were 3 ' apart not even joking. And put my foot down once doing the figure 8s and he failed me. Oh and he couldn't find my vin number after I even showed him where it was an he said no thats not it lol
Sorry to hear that! I’ve heard from others that the cone distances vary from location to location. At 3ft apart you’d need a Grom to make those turns.
Looks like Frazier PA
Thanks man ! Now I can be ready
I just failed in Lebanon PA, the guy placed 5 cones a meer 10 feet apart. Can anyone confirm if you had to do this too? I was using my dad's Honda goldwing, with all the luggage racks, so I was a significant disadvantage, stayed and practised for about an hour, but was maybe nailed the cone section 5 or 6 times out of a few dozen tries. If it's supposed to be 3 x 20' I'm pissed!
Ps the figure 8's by comparison were easy
Nice job! Thank you. It is very helpful.
This is where I took my driver's license test
I took mine in Norristown and the cones were 6 feet apart. Absolute bullshit. I knew the guy was fucking me over somehow. I looked at the cones and said there is no way I can make that.
Obviously I failed but I still can't believe you got 20ft apart. You would think PA has a standardized motorcycle test
What location was this?
Stupid question, is there another eye exam after you complete the skills test in PA?
No eye exam.
Thank you...😁
was wondering if must test on two wheels? im a trike rider. do i have to borrow two wheels?
Bike tests are for only 2 wheels
Your cones are 20 ft apart, mine will be 10ft part!!! And i live in pa
Anyone know anything about the Bethlehem course
I have a 1994 bmw k75 how would this test be in that?
+Luke Hoisington I think you'll be just fine on that.
where in pa was this?
+Eddie Householder Malvern
Johnny Vette Woah that's crazy I'll be taking mine there I bet!
+Piinkham you can practice there too. Just go after 5pm. Other test takers will be there, but I've only ever seen cars which are mostly practicing parallel parking.
is it the same all over Pa? Just those 3 things? I'm in the Lehigh Valley and am taking the class next week at Keystone..
@@TechStuff1 Thanks for the post.
What location that is?
What DMV did you take yours at?
arenamotorcross1 that’s at the malvern dmv
Do you need 2 mirrors for test? My bike only has one
Yes
Legit just figure 8s what the f
lol u close ur visor like it stole something from you
I agree with the comment below 👇🏽
So I just took this test at this location today, and I can say this video is wrong, and this instructor must have been new. There is one size box, it is the painted one, and even when I asked I was told there is nothing bigger even though I was on a 1200 Sportster with forward controls. The cones were also setup in this video for three wheelers, the motorcycle test they are about 8-10ft apart at most. Extremely tight to get my bike through them with the highway bar. Anyway, I passed on my first try, but if you are going to go off this video, you will be dissapointed. Also, I am 5'11". The box was 20x12 casual paces. I paced it out on Sunday, then went to an empty parking lot and did my figure 8's in a space that was about 16-8 paces. The Malvern test center in this video is not flat, so that is a heads up. You should go here on a Sunday or Monday, mess around, then practice somewhere flat to build muscle memory. Dont look at your front wheel, look at what you are circling with your figure 8's, dont use your front brake, and do ride the clutch. Practice like that and you will be fine, even with a 1200 I had room to spare.
How can that be right for the size of the box? I tried some figure 8's today with a 25'Lx14'W (works out to be about 20x12 paces) box. It was virtually impossible to even turn around once on my Street Bob, let alone do a figure 8. I had the steering locked all the way, practically scraping my pegs, and couldn't do one turn around. It has to be wider than that.
@@therealjustinmariano You need to practice harder. Lean the bike way over and keep your body upright while keeping the throttle open
So I just took this test at this location today, and I can say this video is wrong, and this instructor must have been new. There is one size box, it is the painted one, and even when I asked I was told there is nothing bigger even though I was on a 1200 Sportster with forward controls. The cones were also setup in this video for three wheelers, the motorcycle test they are about 8-10ft apart at most. Extremely tight to get my big through them with the highway bar. Anyway, I passed on my first try, but if you are going to go off this video, you will be dissapointed. Also, I am 5'11". The box was 20x12 casual paces. I paced it out on Sunday, then went to an empty parking lot and did my figure 8's in a space that was about 16-8 paces. The Malvern test center in this video is not flat, so that is a heads up. You should go here on a Sunday or Monday, mess around, then practice somewhere flat to build muscle memory. Dont look at your front wheel, look at what you are circling with your figure 8's, dont use your front brake, and do ride the clutch. Practice like that and you will be fine, even with a 1200 I had room to spare.