Turning and Cornering Flashcards

When approaching a curve on a motorcycle, what should you do with your speed before entering?

Answer: Reduce your speed before entering the curve

You should slow down before entering a curve so you can focus on steering through it safely without needing to brake mid-lean.

The most effective technique for initiating a turn on a motorcycle at highway speeds is:

Answer: Countersteering — pushing forward on the handlebar on the side of the intended turn

Countersteering — pushing the handlebar forward on the side of the intended turn — is the standard technique for initiating turns at speeds above approximately 12 mph.

When riding through a curve, where should you focus your eyes?

Answer: Through and beyond the curve toward where you want to go

Looking through and beyond the curve helps you steer accurately and anticipate road conditions ahead.

What does 'countersteering' mean in motorcycle riding?

Answer: Briefly pushing the handlebar grip forward on the side you want to turn toward

Countersteering means briefly pushing the handlebar in the direction you want to turn, which initiates the lean needed to execute the corner.

What is the best lane position when entering a right-hand curve?

Answer: Left side of the lane near the center line

Positioning toward the left side of your lane before a right-hand curve gives you a better line of sight through the curve and increases your effective turning radius.

When should you roll on the throttle during a curve?

Answer: Smoothly and gradually once you have established your lean angle

Maintaining or gently rolling on the throttle mid-turn stabilizes the motorcycle by keeping the suspension evenly loaded.

What is the primary danger of 'running wide' in a curve?

Answer: You may drift into oncoming traffic or go off the road entirely

Running wide means your motorcycle drifts toward the outside of the curve, which can place you in oncoming traffic or off the roadway.