Encountering sand on the road while already leaned into a corner can be a challenging situation for a rider. Here are some guidelines on how to react to sand during a cornering maneuver:
Stay calm and maintain control: It's essential to remain calm and focused when you encounter sand mid-corner. Abrupt panic reactions can worsen the situation. Maintain a firm grip on the handlebars and try to keep your body position stable.
Minimize abrupt inputs: Avoid making sudden or aggressive inputs, such as braking, accelerating, or steering, as they can destabilize the bike. Abrupt changes in throttle or braking can cause the tires to lose traction. Instead, focus on maintaining a smooth and steady throttle control and minimizing any additional inputs.
Reduce lean angle gradually: If you notice the front or rear tire starting to lose traction due to sand, gradually reduce your lean angle. This can be done by slightly easing off the throttle or by applying gentle pressure to the inside handlebar to bring the bike more upright. However, it's important to be smooth and gradual with these adjustments to avoid upsetting the bike's balance.
Maintain a relaxed body position: Keep your body relaxed and avoid tensing up, as tension can affect your ability to maintain control. Maintaining a neutral body position with your upper body leaning slightly into the turn can help you stay balanced and responsive to the bike's movements.
Look for a clear path: Assess the road ahead and try to identify a clear path with less sand or debris. If possible, aim for a line with better traction, such as the inside or middle of the lane. Look as far ahead as possible to anticipate any potential hazards or changes in road conditions.
Gradually regain traction: As you navigate through the sandy section, keep a steady throttle and allow the bike to regain traction naturally. Avoid making sudden or jerky movements that could lead to loss of control. Once you're clear of the sand, gradually increase your lean angle and resume your normal riding position.
It's worth mentioning that sand on the road significantly reduces tire grip, making it a challenging situation to handle. It's always important to maintain a safe and appropriate speed for the road conditions and be prepared to adapt and respond to unexpected hazards. Additionally, taking a motorcycle safety course that covers techniques for handling various road conditions can be beneficial in improving your skills and confidence.