Motorcycles turn by leaning into the desired direction of the turn while maintaining balance. The process of turning on a motorcycle involves a combination of several factors, including steering, body positioning, and throttle control. Here's a breakdown of the key elements involved:
Countersteering: Countersteering is the primary method used to initiate a turn on a motorcycle. It involves briefly and intentionally steering the handlebars in the opposite direction of the intended turn. For example, to initiate a right turn, you push the right handlebar forward or apply a slight pressure to the right handle grip. This momentary input causes the motorcycle to lean in the desired direction.
Body positioning: The rider's body positioning plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and stability during a turn. As the motorcycle leans, the rider needs to shift their body weight accordingly. This involves leaning their upper body and looking through the turn in the direction they want to go. The rider should keep their torso upright and aligned with the motorcycle, allowing their knees to grip the tank for stability.
Throttle control: Proper throttle control is important while turning. In most cases, the rider should maintain a steady or slightly increased throttle through the turn. This helps provide stability, weight distribution, and control over the motorcycle's acceleration. Abrupt or excessive throttle changes during a turn can upset the balance and potentially lead to instability.
Braking and clutch control: It's generally recommended to avoid braking heavily while in the middle of a turn as it can upset the motorcycle's balance and traction. Instead, most of the braking should be done before entering the turn. Similarly, clutch control is essential to smoothly manage the power delivery while transitioning into and out of the turn.
Practice and experience: Turning on a motorcycle requires skill and experience. The more you practice, the better you become at understanding the dynamics of your motorcycle and executing turns smoothly. Gradually build your confidence by starting with slower speeds and progressively working up to higher speeds and more challenging turns.
It's important to note that different motorcycles may have variations in their handling characteristics. Factors such as the type of motorcycle, weight distribution, tire grip, and suspension setup can influence how a motorcycle responds during turns. Always ride within your skill level, and consider taking a motorcycle safety course to further enhance your riding abilities and understanding of proper turning techniques.