Turning and Cornering Flashcards

What is the 'vanishing point' technique used for when cornering on a motorcycle?

Answer: Determining whether you are traveling too fast for an upcoming curve

The vanishing point is where the road appears to converge in a curve; if that point moves toward you, the curve is tightening and you may be going too fast.

An 'off-camber' turn is one where:

Answer: The road slopes downward toward the outside of the turn, reducing traction

An off-camber turn slopes away from the direction of the curve, which reduces tire traction and increases the risk of sliding out.

What is a 'decreasing radius' curve?

Answer: A curve that gets progressively sharper (tighter) as you go through it

A decreasing radius curve tightens as you progress through it, requiring more lean or a lower entry speed than the initial arc suggests.

If you enter a curve too fast, what is usually the safest response?

Answer: Commit to the lean, look through the curve, and trust your tires' grip

Motorcycle tires can sustain considerably more lean than most riders realize; leaning further and looking through the curve is typically safer than straightening up, which would send you off the outside of the turn.

When making a tight U-turn at low speed, which technique helps maintain balance and control?

Answer: Lightly dragging the rear brake while applying a steady throttle

Using slight rear brake friction while maintaining steady throttle prevents stalling, controls your speed, and gives you better balance during slow, tight maneuvers.

In a left-hand curve, which lane position generally gives you the best view through the bend?

Answer: Right side of the lane near the fog line

Positioning on the right side of your lane for a left-hand curve widens your sight line around the bend, giving you more time to react to hazards.

Why is braking while leaning through a curve especially dangerous?

Answer: Traction already used for cornering leaves little reserve for braking, risking a skid

When the tires are leaned over, they are already using most of their available traction to maintain the curve; adding braking force can exceed the grip limit and cause a skid.