How to Counter-Steer a Motorcycle
At speeds over 15 mph, motorcycles and scooters turn differently. Unlike automobiles, where you would turn the steering wheel in the direction of your desired turn, a phenomenon known as "counter-steering" occurs. Counter-steering involves pushing the handlebar on the corresponding side of the direction you want to go. In other words, press right to go right. As awkward as this may sound, counter-steering becomes second nature with a little practice.
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Instructions
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Introduction to Counter-Steering
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Accelerate to 20 mph, then lightly push a handlebar. Your bike will begin to lean toward that side. Release pressure on the handlebar and your bike will right itself, resuming a straight line of travel.
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Continue to travel at 20 mph, and this time push the handle bar a bit further, keeping a constant pressure, your bike will lean and begin to slowly turn in toward that direction. Release pressure on the handle bar to return to a straight line of travel.
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Continue to travel at 20 mph, gently apply pressure to the handle bar again. This time, as you release the handle bar, apply pressure to the opposite handle bar. Your bike should instantly respond, leaning into the opposite direction. Practice weaving from side to side with smooth and gentle inputs on the handle bars.
Counter-steering in a U-turn
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Select a point to initiate a loose u-turn and keep your eyes focused on that point. Accelerate to 20 mph and sustain your speed.
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Without changing your throttle position, initiate your turn by pressing on the corresponding handle bar.
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Continue to apply pressure steadily, looking through the turn as far as possible, until you have completely circled your turning point. Release pressure on the handle bar to exit the turn.
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Practice until you can ride in increasingly tighter circles in both directions. When you feel confident enough, combine your circles into figure-eight patterns.
Counter-steering and Braking
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Select a point to initiate a 90 degree turn and accelerate towards it at 30 mph. Your eyes should be focused on your turning point.
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Apply the brakes as you approach your turning point, decelerating to 20 mph. Release the brake and counter-steering into your turn, looking through the turn.
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Accelerate gently to 30 mph as you pass the tightest point of the turn, releasing pressure on the handle bar to right your bike and exit the turn.
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Practice until you are confident in braking before turning. With practice, you should be able to shorten the distance needed to slow down before initiating your turn.
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Tips & Warnings
When riding, where you are looking is important. Always scan the road ahead of you and look through turns. The further into a turn you look, the better. When learning these skills, try to find a large open area, such as an empty parking lot. You will have a much easier time learning new skills if you don't have to worry about obstacles and other vehicles. Be smooth with the controls, as sudden inputs on the throttle or brakes can easily make you lose control. Take your time. It is easy to get frustrated, but patience will reward you. If you want more information on learning how to counter-steer effectively, or want to take your skills to the next level, contact the Motorcycle Safety Foundation for details on their RiderCourse.
Keep your eyes on the road. Motorcycles will go where you are looking, so don't fixate on obstacles. Wear your helmet. Know your bike and on-board equipment. Read your owner's manual and know how to operate the equipment. Do not attempt to ride your motorcycle or scooter on public roads until you have mastered basic turning fundamentals. Riding on the road will present many conditions that you may not be prepared for without learning these basic techniques.
References
- Photo Credit Tim Eschaton
