
To properly control a motorcycle, a rider must have a combination of skills and proficiency in riding techniques. That includes countersteering, a technique that involves briefly turning the handlebars opposite to the intended direction. The physics behind countersteering is based on a momentary destabilization of the motorcycle's balance. Combined with the motorcycle's inertia and centripetal force, this causes the motorcycle and the rider's center of mass to shift or lean.
To safely perform a countersteer
on a motorcycle, a rider needs to be traveling above 12mph, as the technique requires gyroscopic stability to begin and sustain the lean. Gently push the handlebars opposite of the desired direction, while also pulling on the correct side, as this would cause the motorcycle to lean and go in the intended direction. The further the handlebar is pushed towards the opposite direction, the greater the lean angle will be, so once the preferred lean angle is achieved, the handlebars can then be eased to the correct direction of the turn.
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An Important Riding Technique For Motorcycles

Learning and using countersteering is vital to motorcycle riding and safety. Countersteering helps maintain the bike's stability when making a turn and allows the rider to make quick adjustments to avoid dangers or obstacles on the road. A key factor in safe countersteering is understanding the motorcycle in terms of its weight, suspension settings, and center of gravity, as these impact the bike's handling characteristics and help to avoid common motorcycle riding mistakes.
Because of their practicality and the sense of fun and freedom they provide, motorcycles continue to be admired by both long-time and novice riders alike. While the learning curve to ride motorcycles is not particularly steep, regular practice and application of safe riding techniques are key to mastering its functions. Understanding the fundamentals and knowing the essentials of owning and operating bikes helps make the motorcycle experience better and safer for riders and the public.
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Read the original article on SlashGear.