Cornering is one of the most exhilarating and challenging aspects of riding a motorcycle. Beyond the thrill, developing proper cornering techniques is crucial for safety and confidence on the road. This guide will show you techniques to help you master motorcycle cornering.
1. Focus on Body Positioning
Body positioning plays a critical role in maintaining balance and control through corners. You should keep your head and eyes focused on the exit of the curve while aligning your upper body with the motorcycle. Sliding your weight slightly toward the inside of the turn provides more stability. Grip the tank with your knees to steady yourself, and keep your arms relaxed to avoid stiff movements. Practicing these adjustments will make cornering feel more natural over time.
2. Select the Proper Speed and Gear
Riding into a turn at the wrong speed or gear often leads to difficulties midway through the corner. Approach the corner at a controllable pace, slowing down to a safe entry speed well before you reach it. Choose a gear that gives you steady power delivery throughout the corner. Proper speed control allows for better grip, especially since the front and rear motorcycle wheels handle things differently depending on acceleration or braking.
3. Use Smooth Throttle Control
Throttle control affects your stability during cornering. Roll on the throttle smoothly once you reach the apex of the turn to maintain traction and balance. Abrupt throttle changes can unsettle the wheels or cause skidding, making the corner unpredictable. Focus on creating a steady flow of power as you corner. Practicing gentle, consistent throttle use will make your exits smoother and more efficient.
4. Apply Effective Countersteering
Countersteering is a fundamental skill for initiating and maintaining turns. Push the handlebar on the side you wish to turn slightly forward. For example, pushing the right handlebar forward tilts the bike to the right. This movement gives your motorcycle the lean angle needed to corner effectively. Spend time practicing this technique at different speeds to build muscle memory and confidence in various cornering scenarios.
5. Maintain a Safe Line Through the Turn
Choosing the right line is vital for safe and efficient cornering. Always aim for a smooth arc through the turn. Enter wide, tighten to the apex—the innermost part of the curve—and exit wide again. This path lets you maintain visibility and control, avoiding tight or overly aggressive angles that can compromise traction. Consistent practice on open and safe roads will help perfect this technique.
Mastering motorcycle cornering techniques improves your safety and boosts your riding enjoyment. Regular practice on safe roads will sharpen these skills, turning every corner into an opportunity to ride better. Get on your bike and refine your technique today!
More Motorcyclist Tips:
