Advanced Riding Techniques for Experienced Motorcyclists

Riding a motorcycle offers a sense of freedom and excitement that's hard to match with any other mode of transport. However, with great power and freedom comes a heightened necessity for responsibility, especially when it comes to safety. For the experienced motorcyclist, this responsibility translates into constantly refining and learning advanced riding techniques that not only elevate the riding experience but also significantly enhance rider safety.

The Role of Advanced Riding Skills

Advanced riding skills serve multiple purposes. Primarily, they're about ensuring the safety of the rider and others on the road. However, mastering these skills also means an improvement in performance – making rides smoother, more efficient, and ultimately more enjoyable. These techniques, which go far beyond the basics learned for a license exam, can be the difference between a close call and a serious accident.

In this post, we'll explore some essential advanced riding techniques that every experienced motorcyclist should aim to refine, along with insights from professionals on how to master them. Whether you're navigating through dense traffic or exploring curvy backcountry roads, these tips will help keep you safe.

Cornering

Cornering is a fundamental skill for all riders, but handling a motorcycle in a curve at higher speeds requires advanced techniques. The key to effective cornering is anticipating the curve, adjusting your speed before entering, and smoothly applying throttle through the curve. Professional riders emphasize the importance of "looking through the curve," focusing on where you want to go rather than right in front of you.

Braking

Effective braking involves more than just squeezing the brake lever. Advanced riders must master the art of distributing braking force between the front and rear brakes, especially in emergency situations. Techniques such as trail braking can offer more control when entering a turn, but they require practice to perform safely. Remember, the goal of advanced braking techniques is controlled deceleration while maintaining stability and avoiding skids.

Counter-steering

At higher speeds, motorcycles require counter-steering to initiate a turn—that is, pressing on the handlebar in the direction opposite of the turn (press right to go right, press left to go left). It might sound counterintuitive, but this technique is crucial for quick maneuvers and adjustments in direction. Mastery of counter-steering is not only about knowing the concept but also about instinctively applying it under pressure.

Emergency Maneuvers

The ability to perform emergency maneuvers proficiently can be lifesaving. This includes evasive steering to avoid obstacles and sudden braking to stop in the shortest distance possible. Regular practice of these maneuvers in a safe, controlled environment can prepare you for unexpected situations on the road.

Safety Tips for Challenging Conditions

While mastering advanced riding skills is essential, so is knowing how to adapt these techniques to different environments:

• Rainy Conditions: Reduce speed, and increase following distances. Use smooth, gentle inputs for braking and steering, and avoid painted lines and metal surfaces which can become slippery.
• Snowy/Icy Conditions: If possible, avoid riding in these conditions. If you must ride, be extra cautious, reduce your speed significantly, and be prepared for reduced visibility and traction.
• High-Traffic Areas: Stay alert, anticipate the actions of other drivers, and always give yourself an out—a space to move into if the need arises.

Final Thoughts

Enhancing your riding techniques is a lifelong process, and there’s always room for improvement. Incorporating advanced skills into your riding repertoire improves not only your safety but also your overall enjoyment of motorcycling. Learning from professionals, whether through formal training courses or mentoring from experienced riders, can offer valuable insights into perfecting these skills. Remember, in the world of motorcycling, complacency can be dangerous. Always ride with a safety-first mindset, and continuously strive to be a better rider.

Riding a motorbike is about finding joy in the freedom of the open road. By refining advanced riding skills, you ensure that every ride is not only exhilarating but safe. Here’s to many more miles of safe, enjoyable riding ahead.