Cornering on a motorcycle

Countersteering

At speeds over about 25 km/h you use countersteering to steer the motorcycle into turns. This means that you push the right handlebar forward to turn right, and vice versa for left.

Countersteering works because a motorcycle in motion is steered by lean, not by handlebar angle. The harder you push, the faster the motorcycle leans into the turn.

Lean angle and grip

The lean angle determines how sharply you turn. Greater lean gives a sharper turn but requires more road grip.

Adjusting Speed in a Turn

Adjust your speed before you lean the motorcycle into the turn. Follow the principle:

1. Brake on a straight section before the turn.
2. Set the correct lean angle.
3. Accelerate smoothly through and out of the turn.

Braking in the middle of a turn lifts the motorcycle and can cause you to go off the road. Read more about motorcycle braking to understand the interaction between braking and directional stability.

Eye Usage

Look where you want to go, not straight down in front of the wheel. Your eyes naturally steer the motorcycle through the turn. Try to look through the turn toward the exit as early as possible.

Roadway and lane position

Choose the correct position in the lane to get the best visibility through the corner and to maintain a safe distance from oncoming traffic. See MC in traffic for recommended lane positions in curves.

Practice with free theory test and read about speed limits and speed rules .