Cornering on a motorcycle can be exhilarating, but it can also be intimidating for some riders. Overcoming fear and gaining confidence while cornering takes practice and experience. Here are some tips to help you corner a motorcycle with more confidence:
Develop your skills: Before attempting aggressive cornering, it's essential to build a solid foundation of motorcycle handling skills. Practice slow-speed maneuvers, braking, and throttle control in a safe environment. Take a motorcycle safety course or advanced riding class to improve your technique and gain confidence.
Understand the dynamics: Familiarize yourself with the principles of motorcycle dynamics. Learn about countersteering, body positioning, and proper weight distribution during cornering. Understanding how your motorcycle responds to different inputs will help you feel more in control.
Choose the right speed: Entering a corner at an appropriate speed is crucial. Slow down before the turn, but ensure you maintain enough momentum to maintain stability. Going too fast can increase the risk of losing control, while going too slow can affect balance and stability.
Look where you want to go: Keep your eyes focused on the path you want to take through the corner. Look ahead and around the turn, rather than fixating on obstacles or the road surface directly in front of you. Your body and bike tend to follow your line of sight, so look through the corner to maintain a smooth trajectory.
Use proper body positioning: Position your body correctly to enhance stability and control. Shift your weight toward the inside of the turn, with your head and eyes level or slightly tilted towards the inside of the curve. This helps maintain balance and allows you to better control the motorcycle.
Smooth throttle and braking control: Gradually apply and release the throttle to maintain a consistent speed and power delivery throughout the corner. Smoothly roll off the throttle as you enter the turn, and gradually roll it back on as you exit. Avoid abrupt throttle inputs or sudden braking, as they can upset the balance of the bike.
Practice, practice, practice: The more you ride and practice cornering, the more comfortable you will become. Start with low-risk corners and gradually progress to more challenging ones. With time, you'll develop muscle memory and gain confidence in your abilities.
Remember, building confidence while cornering takes time and experience. Always prioritize safety and ride within your skill level. If you're a new rider or feeling particularly anxious, it's beneficial to seek guidance from experienced riders or consider taking additional training courses.