Competent Cornering
September 23, 2009
One of the best things about riding a motorcycle is motoring around an arching corner at a stable speed. Whether riding a Harley Davidson or a sport bike, cornering is just plain fun. It can also be extremely dangerous. There are several factors to keep in mind when cornering that will help novice and experienced bikers avoid losing control.
Before entering the corner, consider your speed, the weather, and road conditions. Rain, morning dew, debris, or vehicle fluids can be a major hazard. Make sure you quickly assess the road conditions and adjust your speed accordingly. When entering the turn, pick a line where you can maintain your speed. Remember to give yourself some margin for error so you have room to maneuver if necessary. If you have to make an emergency stop while cornering, make sure to straighten the bike. Hard braking while the bike is leaning will result in a fall.
When cornering, significantly less of the motorcycle tires are in contact with the road. As a result, the bike has less ability to maneuver or stop. By considering a few tips, you can avoid potential pitfalls before they happen.
Posted Under: Motorcycle Safety Tags: Harley Davidson, motorcycle tires, riding a motorcycle, sport bike
