Kentucky CDL Challenge 2025 – Hit the Road to Success!

The correct response involves understanding two critical factors in operating a vehicle with a manual transmission: engine speed (measured in revolutions per minute, or rpm) and road speed (measured in miles per hour, or mph).

Engine speed indicates how hard the engine is working and helps determine when to shift gears to maintain optimal performance. If the engine is revving too high, it may signal that a gear shift is needed to prevent damage and to maximize fuel efficiency.

Road speed, on the other hand, informs the driver about the vehicle's current speed which also influences when to shift. For instance, when accelerating, reaching a certain road speed may dictate that it’s time to upshift to a higher gear for better fuel efficiency and control.

These two indicators work together to assist drivers in making informed decisions about gear shifting, ensuring smoother operation and better performance of the vehicle.