To "lay the bike down" in motorcycle riding refers to a deliberate action of intentionally laying the motorcycle on its side during a sudden or emergency situation in an attempt to avoid a collision or mitigate the impact of a potential crash. It is also sometimes called "laying it down" or "laying the bike over."
The idea behind laying the bike down is that by intentionally dropping the motorcycle to its side, the rider reduces the risk of being propelled forward and potentially into a more dangerous situation. By sacrificing the bike's stability and sliding along the ground, the rider hopes to minimize the force of impact and protect themselves to some extent.
It's important to note that laying the bike down is generally considered a last-resort maneuver and is not recommended as a standard or preferred technique for avoiding crashes. Skilled riders are typically trained to utilize other avoidance techniques, such as emergency braking, swerving, or maneuvering, to mitigate potential accidents while attempting to maintain control of the motorcycle.
It's worth mentioning that laying the bike down can still result in significant risks and injuries, and riders are advised to prioritize safety and consider professional motorcycle training to improve their riding skills and emergency response techniques.