Slow first, then turn
Set your speed while the bike is still upright and the road ahead is straight. Entering a bend too fast leaves you with only bad options. Slower on entry means calmer, and gives you room to speed up on the way out.
Look through the turn
- Turn your head and eyes to where you want to go, towards the exit of the bend, not at the edge of the road or the gravel.
- The bike tends to follow your gaze. A long look ahead also gives you time to notice surface changes and oncoming traffic.
- Keep your chin level and your shoulders relaxed.
Choose a line
- On a road open to traffic, stay in your lane. A wide, steady line that lets you see as far as possible is safer than a sporty one.
- Pick a position in the lane that lets you see as far through the bend as possible, and adjust it for oncoming traffic, gravel and surface changes.
- Never cut across the centre line or into the other lane.
Smooth throttle, light hands
- Roll on the throttle gently through the turn to settle the bike, and avoid closing it suddenly mid-bend.
- Hold the handlebars lightly. A tight grip makes the bike hard to steer and wears you out.
- Be gentle with the brakes while leaned over.
Build up slowly
Practise on roads you know, increase pace in small steps and stop when you feel tired. Wet roads, cold tyres, sand and leaves all reduce grip, so allow for them.
A cornering or advanced rider course with an instructor is the best way to build this skill safely.
Sources: Motorcycle Safety Foundation. Links do not imply that these organisations endorse MotoCircleX.