MASTERING COUNTER STEERING 

You must counter steer a motorcycle in order to negotiate corners correctly and safely, it is an integral part of cornering. This technique is used at higher speeds on the public road, but at slower speed the handlebars are turned to steer the bike as with the U-Turn and Figure-of-Eight.

Counter steering takes time to understand and master and you will improve as you develop your skills through time and practice. You must ensure your cornering speed does not exceed your ability.

PUSH THE HANDLEBAR

Look in the direction you intend to travel. In a bend look through the corner and towards the exit of the bend. You should locate an aiming point in the corner and at the start of the corner, you gently push the handlebar with the palm of the hand away from you in the direction of travel.

This weight transfer results in the motorcycle leaning over into the corner and as this happens it becomes a natural manoeuvre to follow the contour of the bend.

• To counter steer right – Look right and push right
• To counter steer left – Look left and push left

When you look right into the corner, you would push the palm of the hand forward away from your body. Keep the natural extension of the arm and as you push the bike will naturally lean over.

Counter steering is a progressive skill and must be practiced and mastered at slower speeds with gentle pressure. As you practice this technique you will gain confidence in your own and the ability of the motorcycle.

FOR COUNTER STEERING REMEMBER TO

• Look in the direction of intended travel
• Keep the head up, look ahead and through the corner
• Do not look down at the ground
• Do not focus on a single point
• With the palm of the hand
• Push the handlebar forward, down and in the intended direction of travel
• Relax and go with it
• Lean slightly in to the corner
• The bike will go where you look