Question 1

What is a 'decreasing radius curve'?

Accepted Answer

A curve that tightens as you ride through it — A decreasing radius curve tightens as you progress through it, requiring the rider to reduce speed and potentially increase lean angle to stay on the intended path.

Question 2

What is "countersteering" on a motorcycle?

Accepted Answer

Briefly pressing the handlebar opposite the intended turn to initiate leaning — Countersteering uses a brief, opposite handlebar press to initiate the lean needed to actually turn a motorcycle at riding speed.

Question 3

What does "look through the turn" mean as a cornering technique?

Accepted Answer

Keeping your eyes and head turned toward where you want to go, not just what’s directly ahead — Looking toward the exit of the turn, rather than just the pavement directly ahead, helps guide the motorcycle smoothly through the curve.

Question 4

Why should a rider generally avoid heavy braking while already leaned over in a curve?

Accepted Answer

Braking while leaned can reduce available traction and cause a skid — A leaned-over tire already has less traction margin available, so heavy braking in that state raises the risk of a skid.

Question 5

Why should a rider slow down before entering a curve rather than while already in it?

Accepted Answer

Braking while turning can upset balance and reduce available traction — Adjusting speed before the curve, rather than during it, avoids the balance and traction issues that braking mid-turn can cause.

Question 6

What is a recommended body position for cornering on a motorcycle?

Accepted Answer

Leaning with the motorcycle while keeping a relaxed, controlled posture — Leaning with the motorcycle, rather than fighting against it or overcorrecting, keeps a rider’s weight working with the bike through a curve.

Question 7

Why is it important to check a curve’s actual sharpness before committing to a speed?

Accepted Answer

A curve that looks gentle from a distance can tighten unexpectedly — A curve’s true sharpness isn’t always apparent from a distance, so entering at a conservative speed leaves room if it tightens more than expected.

Question 8

What should a rider do if a curve tightens more than expected while already leaning through it?

Accepted Answer

Look further through the turn and lean a bit more, rather than braking abruptly — Looking further into the turn and adding a bit more lean generally handles a tightening curve better than abrupt braking, which can unsettle the motorcycle.

Cornering Turning Practice Questions