Mastering the art of cornering on a motorcycle is crucial for every rider. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced motorcyclist, proper cornering techniques can significantly impact your safety, control, and overall riding experience.
Understand the Basics of Motorcycle Dynamics
Before delving into cornering techniques, it’s essential to understand the fundamentals of motorcycle dynamics. Motorcycles are inherently unstable, relying on precise balance and control. Key elements include the center of gravity and weight distribution.
The center of gravity plays a crucial role in how a motorcycle handles corners. A lower center of gravity generally results in better stability. Additionally, proper weight distribution—shifting your weight towards the inside of the turn—can enhance your control and reduce the risk of tipping over.
Preparation Before the Corner
Effective cornering begins long before you actually reach the curve. Preparation is key to ensuring you navigate the turn safely and smoothly.
Assess the Road Conditions
Before approaching a corner, evaluate the road conditions. Look for surface irregularities, potential obstacles, and the curve’s radius. Understanding these factors allows you to adjust your approach accordingly. For instance, a wet or gravelly surface requires extra caution and a more gradual approach.
Proper Speed Management
Adjusting your speed before entering the corner is vital. Aim to slow down to an appropriate speed before you reach the turn, rather than during it. This approach allows you to maintain better control and stability throughout the curve. Braking during a corner can lead to instability and loss of traction, so it’s best to manage your speed beforehand.
Choose the Right Gear
Selecting the appropriate gear before entering the corner is crucial for maintaining control. Downshift to a lower gear to ensure you have adequate power and responsiveness. This gearing adjustment helps you manage speed more effectively and prepares you for smooth acceleration out of the corner.
Entering the Corner
Proper technique when entering a corner sets the stage for a smooth and controlled turn. Here’s how to approach it:
Proper Braking Techniques
Braking correctly before the corner is essential. Apply the brakes gently and progressively to reduce your speed. Avoid heavy braking as you enter the turn, as it can destabilize the motorcycle and lead to loss of traction. Aim to complete your braking before you begin the turn, allowing for a smoother transition into the corner.
Optimal Entry Point
Choosing the best line and entry point for the corner is crucial. Generally, you want to enter the corner from the outside edge of the road, cutting towards the inside as you navigate the turn. This technique, known as the “apex,” allows you to maintain a steady speed and smooth trajectory throughout the curve. Practice finding the optimal entry point to enhance your cornering skills.
Body Positioning and Leaning
Proper body positioning and leaning techniques are critical for effective cornering. They help maintain stability and control throughout the turn.
Body Position
Shift your body weight towards the inside of the turn to help the motorcycle lean correctly. Keep your body relaxed but engaged, using your knees to grip the tank. This positioning helps counteract the centrifugal force and maintain balance.
Leaning Techniques
Leaning the motorcycle properly is essential for smooth cornering. As you approach the turn, gradually lean the motorcycle into the corner, aligning your body with the bike’s angle. Avoid excessive leaning, which can lead to instability, and focus on a smooth, controlled lean.
Maintaining Control Throughout the Corner
Once you’re in the corner, maintaining control is crucial for a safe and smooth ride.
Throttle Control
Smooth throttle control helps maintain traction and stability. Avoid abrupt changes in throttle input, as this can disrupt the bike’s balance. Instead, apply the throttle smoothly and progressively to maintain a steady speed and control throughout the turn.
Steering Adjustments
Making minor steering adjustments can help you stay on course. If you notice the bike drifting or the line changing, make small corrections with the handlebars. Sudden or excessive steering changes can lead to instability, so aim for gentle, precise adjustments.
Exiting the Corner
Properly exiting the corner is just as important as entering it. Here’s how to ensure a smooth transition out of the turn:
Smooth Acceleration
As you approach the end of the corner, gradually apply the throttle to accelerate out of the turn. Sudden acceleration can unsettle the bike, so focus on a smooth and controlled increase in speed. This technique helps you maintain traction and stability as you exit the curve.
Repositioning Your Body
Once you’re through the corner, return to a neutral riding position. Shift your body back to the center of the motorcycle and adjust your posture for straight-line riding. This repositioning helps you regain balance and prepare for the next maneuver.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can prevent you from being hurt from a motorcycle accident as well as significantly improve your cornering technique and overall safety.
Over-Braking
One of the most common mistakes is over-braking, especially during the turn. Excessive braking can cause the motorcycle to skid or lose traction. Always brake before entering the corner and avoid abrupt braking in the middle of the turn.
Inconsistent Throttle
Inconsistent throttle application can disrupt stability and traction. Focus on smooth, steady throttle control to maintain balance and control throughout the corner. Abrupt changes can lead to skidding or loss of control.
Practicing and Improving Your Skills
Continuous practice and training are essential for improving your cornering skills.
Training Courses
Consider taking advanced riding courses to enhance your cornering techniques. These courses offer valuable insights and hands-on experience, helping you refine your skills and improve your confidence.
Regular Practice
Practice regularly in different conditions to build your cornering skills. Experiment with various speeds, angles, and road surfaces to develop a better understanding of how your motorcycle responds in different scenarios and keep riding safe.