When the back tire of a motorcycle locks up, it typically results in a loss of control and can lead to a potentially dangerous situation. Here's what generally happens when a motorcycle's rear tire locks up:
Loss of traction: When the back tire locks up, it loses traction with the road surface. This can occur during braking, especially if excessive force is applied to the rear brake or if the braking force exceeds the tire's grip.
Skidding: The loss of traction causes the rear wheel to skid along the road surface instead of rolling smoothly. The skidding creates a sliding motion rather than controlled braking, and the motorcycle's stability and handling are compromised.
Unstable handling: When the rear tire locks up, the motorcycle's balance and stability are affected. The rider may experience a loss of control, making it challenging to maintain the bike's intended direction and keep it upright.
Potential for a low-side or high-side crash: Depending on the specific circumstances and rider's reactions, a locked rear tire can result in different outcomes. It can lead to a low-side crash, where the motorcycle slides out from under the rider, or a high-side crash, where the bike suddenly regains traction and violently throws the rider over the handlebars.
To prevent the back tire from locking up and minimize the risk of accidents, it's crucial to practice proper braking techniques. Utilizing both the front and rear brakes in a coordinated manner, known as progressive braking, is important. The majority of the braking force should be applied to the front brake, as it provides most of the stopping power, while the rear brake should be used more lightly to maintain stability. Additionally, riders should be aware of road conditions, maintain appropriate tire pressure and tread depth, and avoid abrupt or excessive braking inputs.