In a situation where you are about to hit an obstacle while riding a motorcycle at high speed, it is generally recommended to maintain a firm grip on the handlebars rather than letting go of them. Here's why:
Control and Stability: Holding tight to the handlebars allows you to maintain control and stability of the motorcycle. Your hands play a crucial role in steering, maneuvering, and maintaining balance. By keeping a firm grip, you have better control over the motorcycle's direction and can make necessary adjustments to avoid or minimize the impact of the obstacle.
Absorbing Impact: When you encounter an obstacle, such as a pothole or debris, it is important to maintain your grip to help absorb the impact. Your arms and hands act as shock absorbers, helping to mitigate the force transmitted to the rest of your body and the motorcycle. This can help prevent loss of control and reduce the risk of being thrown off the bike.
Steering and Evasive Maneuvers: By holding onto the handlebars, you retain the ability to steer the motorcycle and potentially perform evasive maneuvers to avoid the obstacle or navigate around it. Letting go of the handlebars can compromise your ability to control the motorcycle and respond effectively to the situation.
Weight Distribution: Holding onto the handlebars helps you maintain proper weight distribution on the motorcycle. It allows you to shift your body weight as needed, ensuring stability and optimal handling during the encounter with the obstacle.
In some cases, there may be exceptions where releasing the handlebars momentarily could be advantageous, such as when hitting an obstacle that could cause a loss of balance or a high-risk scenario.
Ultimately, it's important to prioritize safety and make split-second decisions based on your best judgment and riding experience. Regular motorcycle training and practice can enhance your ability to react effectively in such situations.