The #1 mistake that makes riders crash in the twisties is this... riding at someone else's speed. I spent a number of years riding with friends on twisty roads and almost every time somebody crashed it's because they were trying to keep up with a riding buddy that's faster than they are. Always ride at your own pace no matter what. If you have a friend that's faster than you... don't try to keep up with them at all times, you will crash.
@@shortstuff9990 depends on the car, the bike, the respective drivers, the road and the weather. For safety sake, the challenge is to give yourself permission to take any turn at your own pace, and not feel inadequate if it means you're holding up that one rushed driver behind you. He has different priorities and less than half a mind to spare for your safety.
Man, you literally taught me how to ride by myself at home a few years ago, about a year ago my motorcycle was stolen. I watch these videos to still keep my mind sharp for when I get another motorcycle 👊🏻 keep it up teacher I love your content, and you’ve saved my life on multiple occasions ❕
I've been riding 7 years in UK now and did advanced and masters level courses, YET never were braking skills covered!! Watching and practicing my brakes as my main control inputs from your videos has transformed my riding!! Thank you so much!!
At 70 yo, I finally got my second bike after 50 years of waiting . been watching a lot of UA-cam. You put on a great video. Sincerely appreciate all your time and effort. Wish you I would continue them.
I'm 65, got that Dyna at 60, had a couple rotator cuff surgery to take me out for a few years, ..... back on it again and loving it. Thank you so much on delineating the speed + curve equation on when to use counter steering versus shifting rider's center of gravity. You are my hero! Mike
I'm not a rider yet, but I want to be. Your videos have taught me way more than I thought went into riding. I also noticed how some of the principles you addressed here, apply to other aspects of driving. As a truck driver, I've lost count of how many nervous drivers have made mistakes. Crossing lines, jumping curbs, braking too hard and fast (myself included). We need someone like you in every part of driving. Cars, motorcycles, big rigs... so many people would benefit from the knowledge and experience.
Buy that bike. Invest in good gear. Make those miles. Enjoy the freedom. There's literally nothing else to it, and I needed a nudge to get there. And I don't regret it. Life's short. Lick the bowl.
Priceless life saving tips. You are 100% correct mate, these mistakes are soooo common and your tuitions are so clear and Thanks a million for sharing. Amazing advice for all riders.
Great video! I have been riding 25 yrs and spent some time at open track days. Downshifting in turns vs braking, go with braking. Like Mojo says, more control. I wanted to point out that throttle control should be considered before the braking. Letting off the throttle in small increments will slow down the bike. Now if you got into a turn too fast, use the brakes. I really improved my turns when i noticed much better riders in front of me never had their brakes lights come on. They were letting down the throttle BEFORE the turn. No braking required and they carried more momentum through the curve. Now we all come into a situation (in a turn) where we need to apply the brakes. What i have strived to was to be better at anticipating how much speed to bleed off before i enter the turn. Throttle control first then brakes if required. Also, downshifting Like Mojo says, is not going to give you what you think you want. You could upset the bike as well.
New rider here, bought a beautiful bike two months ago. And honestly your channel is all I watched going from knowing nothing to now being extremely comfortable on highway or city. Thank you for all you do 🙏
New rider here, had my first ride through the twisties yesterday and unfortunately my first real stack on a corner. Bike is pretty beat up as is my knee and shoulder (not to mention my pride and enthusiasm to ride), but it could have been a lot worse. The guy I was riding with has over 40 years’ experience and spent the rest of that ride teaching me to ONLY ever engine break on corners and to never touch the breaks. He does this at high speeds of over 160km per hour (approx. 90mph). He’s revered by his peers as a bike god so I figured he knows what he is talking about and while it obviously works for him, what you’re explaining here makes so much more sense to me and just sounds like the right/logical way to use the bike. I regret attempting that kind of ride so early in my riding experience. I should have known better. Looking forward to healing up, repairing my bike and getting out on the road to put your teachings to practice. Booking a course to help increase my skills and knowledge too. Thank you for your vids 🙏
Lesson learned...years riding doesn't mean you know what the hell you're talking about. That guy has a lot to learn and speed is all relative..it's it's a big sweeping open corner, that could be slow compared to a better rider. I suggest signing up for ChampU right now to learn from people who actually know what they're talking about...they're all current MotoAmerica professional racers that ride on the street too many of them. MotoJitsu.com/courses instagram.com/motojitsuclub/
Yep, that guy doesn’t know what he’s talking about. You need to learn how to trail brake into corners, like racers do, and lean with your inside shoulder into the corner whilst counter steering. Best to learn how to ride on a dirt bike like all the best riders do. That way you get used to the bike moving underneath you and it doesn’t matter so much when you dump the bike. Listen to MotoJitsu here. Life At Lean is also an excellent bikers channel …
I saw you video a few month ago and it really thought me that I needed to relearn to correctly ride my new 2021 Yamaha FJR after being used to riding my Hayabusa for 20 years which it seems not quite the correct way. Thanks my man for your awesome safety advice, you’ve saved countless lives for sure🙏🏻
Two comments though, I use counter leaning in 35-45 mph corners ONLY when I don't have great visibility on blind corners, sometimes that doubles my visibility range, tied with holding the outside edge of the corner helps a lot. Not doing 45 in a 25 and counter leaning, but in a 45 mph corner going 45 with short visibility, I think it is much safer. Also, it is ok to accelerate if you enter slower than max speed, you can accelerate to a comfortable speed which you also did many times in this video. Don't peg the throttle, but it is ok to accelerate up to a safe comfort level.
I’m so glad I started trail braking early on as it has saved me a few times while making other mistakes. Because the front tyre is already loaded I have been able to apply heavy brakes smoothly and get out of trouble.
Awesome stuff !! I’ve been riding on and off for about 10 years. I’m no pro. The part in this video that really opened my eyes was the acceleration part. It’s so true. And it happens. Easily. Thank you so much for the tip.
I started on a r3 recently and listen to to your videos frequently before I go out and practice. Feeling more and more confident week after week. Thanks for all you do!
10:16 This just happened to me on saturday on an unfamiliar road. Started leaning in way too soon found myself just on the double yellow with a car in the opposing lane. Thankfully i wasn’t going too fast (maybe 30mph) and was able to lean harder and avoid disaster. I need to practice this video!! I’m not a fast twisty kinda guy. These skills are so important regardless of your riding style!! THANK YOU…. Hope you survived all the rain!! 👍🏽😀
Thanks for the turn in too early lesson. It really helped me. What I do now is almost hug the white line. If you follow the white line you're only turning as the road does😎
Im trying to get my first bike and preparing myself for the safety class. This video was a lot of help. A lot of guys I ask around just tell me to learn how to down shift, but it never made sense to me. Well done explaining this.
🙏 great post. I'm a little older and had always been taught to lean the bike with my body weight. That is until I started counter steering. Absolutely a game changer, look where you want to go counter steer and I've never had an issue. All those guys tearing up the twisties when it's about taking it all in. I'll filter when traffic is slow but I'm happy to sit in free flowing traffic these days. Never a race to get somewhere. We need many more people teaching the idiots out there thinking it's a race track
I have a Harley and I rely on engine braking way too much. I used to drive Interstate Trucks and it’s a bad habit of using the engine to slow down. I typically have slowed down way before the corner and essentially coast through the corner and power on from about mid way through the corner. I have to start keeping my speed up until I’m closer to the corner and then use the brakes more and maintain power throughout the corner. Great video.
I think overall this video is useful for new riders looking for some basic tips on cornering strategy, as a rider of 43 years now there are some things that I don't recommend, like braking in corners. Braking (and accelerating) are what I describe as thinking manoeuvres, you set your speed up for the corner and brake before going in then 100% follow your technique for entry & exit points, but braking in a bend should be for emergency only as it stands the bike up straight, especially for those riders who use the rear brake (I never use it) . Good cornering will come from experience and you get better when you stop thinking about it and it becomes natural. But keep up the good work, a lot will benefit from this.
The best advice newbies can get is that it’s very difficult to recover entering a corner too hot, so don’t do it! Learning how to trail brake into a corner like racers do is best, obviously …
After watching this video, I realize I was doing a lot of things wrong. So lucky it never get to me. Now it's a matter of unlearning those bad habits and learning the proper and safer habits of cornering. One of them is excessive engine braking( I really don't use my brakes on curves a lot of times. Second is where to position myself before a turn, when to start giving gas and lastly fighting off the bike(doing unnecessary leaning). I went riding today and notice a huge difference by not doing what I used to do and apply all of your advices. I gain more confidence on taking those turns and me(leaning more) rather than leaning the bike more. Love your videos man!
This reminds me oddly of when I transitioned from my 750/4 K2 to my first car, Beetle 1302S and I thought how easy it was to drive a car around corners. This skill of riding a bike was an art that you learnt naturally from bicycle to moped onto motorbikes and didnt realise how naturally the skill was being adopted, Getting back on a bike now, I am taking it real steady, hoping my original senses start to kick in again. Your patience while cornering comments also explain alot; my car now is a quattro drive and it can be powered out of a corner; this is something that is so engrained in me that I thought I was just driving so cautiously on the bike but as you say, you cant do the same on a bike, which is generally why cars are faster through curves
I learned to ride in 2003 with ZERO experience. I took an MSF course and approached the entire thing as a newbie. So, I have been riding over 20 years and never had an accident (thank God) but MANY close calls. I have ridden the biggest, fastest, heaviest and have never done anything you said in this video, probably because of my MSF course. The best advice I ever got when I took my course was "equal pressure, both brakes all the time." I currently ride a 2018 VMax and 2019 Fat Boy 114. Be safe out there... Its us against them.
Oh my gosh, thank you so much! It’s like the bike gods sent me this video exactly when I needed it. I’ve been riding for only a few months and am trying to refine how I corner. The first issue is 100% me. Thank you for explaining so well and giving a such a practical, implementable technique!
This video is incredibly helpful! Watching your videos is giving me lots more confidence (but not ego) and knowledge, so that when I start riding in the next few weeks I'll feel prepared and knowleadge enough to properly control my bike, and will keep practicing stopping, cornering and safe riding techniques to protect myself and others on the road. Thanks for all you do!!
Man I love these. Successful lean angle (as in, not falling over) is a function of speed and curve radius. The equation is very rigid. If you grab the brake on a curve, you are changing speed, but your curve radius and lean angle are unchanged, therefore you will fail to maintain a successful lean angle. Physics ftw. Also I love how you showed in the beginning basically the same thing, but modifying curve radius by modifying speed vs just modifying speed. Higher speed with a constant lean angle = larger radius, which in non-nerd speak means "Go faster, be pushed toward the outside of the curve. Go slower, be pushed toward the inside of the curve." Youre essentially showing the derivative and integral of the same thing, its amazing.
I'm just starting out as a rider, matter of fact, getting my license tomorrow. I have had my bike for a few weeks, and it has stayed in the garage. MSF course had great instructors; your lessons are outstanding. Want to make sure I do it all correctly, that is what I am waiting for the "M". Then it is riding all around my neighborhood. I think I have spent more time watch your great videos than I spent in the MSF course.
Hate to sound like a fanboy, but this is the dude. Wish I’d had a resource like this when I started back in the 70’s. His strength as a teacher is that he doesn’t just give you dos and don’ts; he tells you when and how. He gives “rules of thumb” that are easy to follow.
Good advice there, thanks. Many people say don’t touch the brakes during cornering, do all the braking beforehand and rely on engine braking during the turn itself, but you confirmed what all my instincts tell me… of course it’s ok to use the brakes but very smoothly and gradually. In some situations like steep downhill hairpins I don’t see how you can safely rely on engine braking except maybe in 1st gear after slowing to a crawl on approach. After braking as I approach a bend like that, I release slowly but not completely, I still have some light brake contact through the turn.
Thank you so much 'Musashi', there was no internet when me and my mates all taught ourselves to ride, that was 40 years ago, now relearning and releasing many old habits , love your work, presence and passion.
I once saw a TV program on car racing techniques. On an animated diagram they drew the Apex of the turn on the road diagram... The same technique applies to motorcycles entering and existing a turn at high speeds. That's a "visual lesson" that I have never forgotten... Nice video, keep up the good advice.
I agree with the discussion below - if technique of this level is needed to be riding this motorcycle in this manner on this public road, that rider probably shouldn't be doing what he's doing on that road. He should either be going a lot slower, or he should be on a track under controlled conditions, where he can ride at those speeds safely without presenting a hazard to himself or others. Those speed limit signs aren't just window dressing; they are what they are for good reasons.
This is also why motorcycles are so much fun! Practising these techniques are making my rides so much more enjoyable. I thought after 40 years riding, I had no reason to learn any more. Thanks!
14:18 that's exactly what the bikes going to do. Braking makes the bike straighten itself up. Not grabbing the brakes is totally correct. You have to preload the suspension and then apply brake pressure. We call in 'Schwammbremse' in german which translates to sponge braking. Light in the beginning and really hard afterwards if necessary. As you said a bike can't handle abrupt loads. But either way, if you brake mid corner the bike is going to stand up. Thats another reason why you see so many people going straight. When choosing the wrong line and being to fast for example people tend to panic. Thats when target fixation and panic braking occurs. Braking makes their bike stand up and target fixation does the rest. When braking in a corner you must always push the bike downwards against the motion of it to set itself straight. Obviously very carefully because the centrifugal forces (lateral) as well as brake forces (longitudinal) are adding up which brings the tire to it's limit faster. Here's a video for reference (he's talking about accelerating but it's the same principle): ua-cam.com/video/tPsjr7jxO0o/v-deo.html Cornering ABS is a great improvement from normal ABS or even no ABS. Have a look at this video which shows the upwards motion when braking in a corner: ua-cam.com/video/hHRWg91hv-M/v-deo.html I can't agree with your third statement, never counter lean. It really depends on the situation you find yourself in. if you're tackling a long stretched curve regular leaning is the right way. Regarding quick evasive manoeuvres (obstacle in the road) it is best practice to initiate the evading motion by conter steering and then pushing the bike down (counter leaning). Even at speeds at around 50-60 kph. See this one for reference: ua-cam.com/video/U1mSavQ_DXs/v-deo.html Great first tip when entering a corner. Here's an example where this would have been helpful (4:34): ua-cam.com/video/ZCiqWGXAiNI/v-deo.html Another one for target fixation (0:58): ua-cam.com/video/0uqF7kV8FIk/v-deo.html
Great tips to master cornering. The first one to learn/understand is "counter steering". Too many people do not understand this and use their body wieght to initiate a turn vs using the handlebars to apply pressure on inside bar (turning left to go right) to make the bike turn.
This was very educational, you makes sense to me. I’m a new rider from Oklahoma so we have nothing like this out here I’m cruising around at, but this is one of the funniest videos ever watched. It really made me feel like I was in those terms with you.. awesome
I've been riding 36 years and taken numerous advanced riding courses in recent years. What amazes me is how I'm still learning! This was a great video, thank you.
Excellent. When you enter the turn later, you can choose to come out high or low in your lane. If you enter early, you'll be forced to come out high. Any time you add throttle in a turn it will try to stand your bike up. Wait until you want it to come up.
This dude totally described my lucky learning curve it its entirety. LOL I did it on a dirt bike though, and knew how to skid as a first practice lesson, so that is the lucky part. When I got on a street bike, it was sooooo easy to learn what traction is!
Great advice, though if you have a lot of miles on your bike you can absolutely know how much braking will be applied by downshifting. I ride in the north GA mountains often (pretty technical riding) and almost never brake in the twisties because I'm so familiar with my bike's engine braking + throttle control.
I really like these videos. It's perfect since he explains it all so slow and detailed while he's actually doing it. I'm just starting out and definitely scared of my brakes right now. These vids are giving me a lot more confidence. My neighbors are going to really hate me by the time I'm done practicing around my neighborhood 😅
Great video. I've had a few bikes but have never gotten much formal training. Your video makes me realize I should. In the meantime, I'll practice this. Thanks.
A trick I have learned is to look at the outside line ( white line) as far ahead as I can. This will have you slowing down and matching your speed to the curve radius, it stops the throttle chop because you have more time to plan you turning, taking care NOT to get target fixation, continue look as far ahead on that line as you can. ( i generally ride 10mph over the posted speed limit in curves then an able to pass by passing just pass the apex when people are pushing out wide.
Great vid man, made me realize ive been turning in to early as I often find myself worrying about going wide exiting a turn. Time to put the knowledge to work.
I do really appreciate another Rider's perspective. After 50 years of riding... looking to the outside of the turn is probably the worst thing you could do in my opinion
Helpful reminder. I’ve been riding for over 40 years on the road, and I always have trouble shifting mental gears between street and track mode. With no oncoming traffic, and the whole width all yours, on most track turns you’re all the way inside, so you can crack the throttle open when you’re at the apex and allow plenty of room for the bike to run back outside as you accelerate off. And on track, most turns you have clear sight lines. Totally different on the road with most twisties having obscured sight lines, and the constant danger of oncoming traffic.
been watching your lessons for many years since i won my motorcycle from a raffle. fyi, i didnt even know how to ride when i won it. thank you so much!
Buying my second bike and I was going to get a Yamaha r3 I’m watching your videos for riding tips and you ever had a review for the bike I’m looking at. Thanks!
At first I thought this was another bs newb video, but then I found it to be helpful. I've never verbalized how I negotiate corners, it just seemed natural; as crashing was not an option. Out of all the vids I've watched people crash in, I could not understand HTH they were crashing, yet not on a road course. This fantastic vid explains a lot. Thank you!
Sometimes I feel the same way! Especially since I get emailed all kinds of videos to watch and answer questions about and half the time the person talking is missing so much context, doesn't understand when and where what they're talking about is relevant or is just simply wrong. Thank you!
Agree with the brake pads. Same applies to cars. Better to wear pads more often and reset brake caliper pistons. As if you ride for to long on worn pads the pistons are exposed and rust. And will eventually not return to default position and always drag on the discs. Good points on the cornering tips.
12:48 love the gun analogy… I am sure there’ll be someone that thinks that they could move the stock out in time to correct the direction of the bullet 😂
I honestly thought counter lean was a legit technique in a corner; I don’t know if I ever really used it but I validated it and experimented. thank you for absolving me of that idea
I love that you're in San Diego so I can relate to where you're training. I just bought a bike, took the PSC course, and and trying to figure out what's next. I don't want to wreck my new bike so I'm looking for places to train. It looks like Mt. Palomar is the place to go for the twisties! Thanks.
Been riding for years . Death Valley , LA TO DV. Rode X cross country twice, did. most of the good stuff . Bear tooth, Dragon, etc. I ride mostly BMW’s. Today I have in the garage a 2021 R1250GSA, 2020 BMW k1600 bagger , and the new R1800 cruiser for around town, to gym etc. love riding !!!! I ride spirited , but safe. I like high speed sweepers , the tights , slow parking lot maneuvers. Love it all. Me and my friends all use Sena to communicate & of course listen to music. I’m usually the guy in the front of the pack enjoying the beautiful roads on my GSA . Anyway Would love some fine tuning . a day of riding & getting feedback from you via Sena in the Sweepers , the tights, ascending, & descending. Or basically follow your line while your explaing your thought process . Maybe meet up at 10am. Ride until lunchtime , grab a bite , discuss the ride. & finish it there . Three hrs. Total time ??? As far as concerns e.g. liability, I can walk you through it. No issues FOR YOU. And, it will be a great day of riding for sure . Thoughts ? I’ll delete this comment in a few days so you don’t bombarded . Lol 😂. Love the content here. !!!
Wow I think your video is one of the BEST ive ever seen about it! Thanks for that mate and keep it up!! I was the one who used to rely only on my downshifting, after your video was I life changed! thanks mate!
Man.thank you for making those videos and explaining how to control your motorcycle on the road. I been following you and really helping me a lot. I really appreciate. Thank you
Good stuff. I’m a life long rider in his 60’s, and can honestly say that developing riding skill (and safety) is an on going journey. One point you didn’t mention was the idea of getting all braking done in a straight line when entering a corner, and _then_ initiating corner turn-in. Next is the idea to _gently_ apply throttle to unload the ft wheel during the corner as you approach exit. That was conventional wisdom 30+ yrs ago with the bikes we had then. What’s the current thinking?
Yup -Leaning your upper body into the curve, AND leaning forward, puts your arms and body in the right position. Inner arm relaxed and controlling the bar. Doesn't have to be like a racer - just a smooth change of body position. Also helps you focus, as you mind will follow your body.
I’ve run wide twice in the years that I’ve been riding and couldn’t understand why, until now. Thanks for making things perfectly clear. Great video. How was it possible to ride that route with minimal traffic? And on such a nice day?
Some of the best tips and clear explanations I've ever seen! Not to mention, the best road to explain them on. Fantastic job my friend! Is there anything you would add or modify for us cruzers (GL1800)?
“When you downshift you’re just relying on the engine to somehow mind read how much you want to slow down and how fast you want to slow down”. Not in the case you know your motorcycle, how the engine and the gear box interact at different speeds. You learn which shift is suitable to engage according to your speed and the way you want to slow down. Of course you have to be confident with your brakes, but also with the engine and gearbox. Build comradeship with your motorcycle, you’ll never regret it!
I know the back roads of San Diego pretty well but it took pausing at the mile marker to figure this one. South Grade on Palomar Mountain. I rode it only once. The end of the ride for many Marines from Pendlton.
Had my first ever road ride with my instructor last week and I crashed straight into a power pole and this video explained pretty much all the mistakes I made. Glad I’m okay but my instructor never told me what the route looks like and skipped all the crucial steps. The first thing I was told is telling me I’ll have to pay for the repair cost. I wasn’t comfortable to do the road ride but I was like alright if my instructor thinks I’m ready cos all I did was slow riding and figure-8 at the motorcycle school. It was a bit scary tho but it’s not gonna stop me from riding a motorcycle, think I just need to get another instructor knows what they’re doing
you live somewhere where they take you out on the public road right during your beginner training? To me, as an instructor for 8 years, that's absolutely insane and would never do that or teach at a place that required students to do it. Just the liability alone is nuts.
Good vid sir. What I found a long time ago follow what the bike wants to do if that makes any sense. But yeah learning how to attack turns is something beyond important.
Dang dude this was a super informative video.. saw another one where you talked about confidence in your tires and this video compliments that one well
The #1 mistake that makes riders crash in the twisties is this... riding at someone else's speed. I spent a number of years riding with friends on twisty roads and almost every time somebody crashed it's because they were trying to keep up with a riding buddy that's faster than they are. Always ride at your own pace no matter what. If you have a friend that's faster than you... don't try to keep up with them at all times, you will crash.
Yeah.im only learning and the guy ......I think he wanted me to crash....
To fast..... unbelievable.....
Just go out myself now it's best
Or trying to stay ahead of a car. Car drivers assume bikers are quicker in a turn. This is true to a point, but they forget they're more stable.
@@bramweinreder2346 True, a sports car can corner faster than a bike.
@@shortstuff9990 depends on the car, the bike, the respective drivers, the road and the weather. For safety sake, the challenge is to give yourself permission to take any turn at your own pace, and not feel inadequate if it means you're holding up that one rushed driver behind you. He has different priorities and less than half a mind to spare for your safety.
that's a rood reason to spread out, not ride in packs. Ride your own ride
Man, you literally taught me how to ride by myself at home a few years ago, about a year ago my motorcycle was stolen. I watch these videos to still keep my mind sharp for when I get another motorcycle 👊🏻 keep it up teacher I love your content, and you’ve saved my life on multiple occasions ❕
Ya same...I learnt everything from his channel even before I bought my bike.....so nice of him
my dude... I am so sorry for your loss... Hope you get another bike as soon as possible.
Get theft coverage
Yea, his instructional videos are excellent!
May whoever stole your bike 🚲 to have a lifetime of unfairness and unhappyness 🙏
I've been riding 7 years in UK now and did advanced and masters level courses, YET never were braking skills covered!! Watching and practicing my brakes as my main control inputs from your videos has transformed my riding!! Thank you so much!!
Great stuff
Amazing lesson! I'm a total newbie and this really helps to understand how to get through curves safely.
Absolutely! This video is a goldmine for beginners like us. It breaks down the art of navigating curves in such a clear and concise way.
At 70 yo, I finally got my second bike after 50 years of waiting . been watching a lot of UA-cam. You put on a great video. Sincerely appreciate all your time and effort. Wish you I would continue them.
I'm 65, got that Dyna at 60, had a couple rotator cuff surgery to take me out for a few years, ..... back on it again and loving it. Thank you so much on delineating the speed + curve equation on when to use counter steering versus shifting rider's center of gravity. You are my hero! Mike
I'm not a rider yet, but I want to be. Your videos have taught me way more than I thought went into riding. I also noticed how some of the principles you addressed here, apply to other aspects of driving. As a truck driver, I've lost count of how many nervous drivers have made mistakes. Crossing lines, jumping curbs, braking too hard and fast (myself included). We need someone like you in every part of driving. Cars, motorcycles, big rigs... so many people would benefit from the knowledge and experience.
What kinda bike do you want?
Buy that bike. Invest in good gear. Make those miles. Enjoy the freedom. There's literally nothing else to it, and I needed a nudge to get there. And I don't regret it. Life's short. Lick the bowl.
Priceless life saving tips. You are 100% correct mate, these mistakes are soooo common and your tuitions are so clear and Thanks a million for sharing. Amazing advice for all riders.
Great video! I have been riding 25 yrs and spent some time at open track days. Downshifting in turns vs braking, go with braking. Like Mojo says, more control. I wanted to point out that throttle control should be considered before the braking. Letting off the throttle in small increments will slow down the bike. Now if you got into a turn too fast, use the brakes. I really improved my turns when i noticed much better riders in front of me never had their brakes lights come on. They were letting down the throttle BEFORE the turn. No braking required and they carried more momentum through the curve. Now we all come into a situation (in a turn) where we need to apply the brakes. What i have strived to was to be better at anticipating how much speed to bleed off before i enter the turn. Throttle control first then brakes if required. Also, downshifting Like Mojo says, is not going to give you what you think you want. You could upset the bike as well.
Fantastic
New rider here, bought a beautiful bike two months ago. And honestly your channel is all I watched going from knowing nothing to now being extremely comfortable on highway or city. Thank you for all you do 🙏
you're welcome!! Glad you like the videos
instagram.com/motojitsuclub/
New rider here, had my first ride through the twisties yesterday and unfortunately my first real stack on a corner. Bike is pretty beat up as is my knee and shoulder (not to mention my pride and enthusiasm to ride), but it could have been a lot worse.
The guy I was riding with has over 40 years’ experience and spent the rest of that ride teaching me to ONLY ever engine break on corners and to never touch the breaks. He does this at high speeds of over 160km per hour (approx. 90mph). He’s revered by his peers as a bike god so I figured he knows what he is talking about and while it obviously works for him, what you’re explaining here makes so much more sense to me and just sounds like the right/logical way to use the bike.
I regret attempting that kind of ride so early in my riding experience. I should have known better. Looking forward to healing up, repairing my bike and getting out on the road to put your teachings to practice. Booking a course to help increase my skills and knowledge too. Thank you for your vids 🙏
Lesson learned...years riding doesn't mean you know what the hell you're talking about. That guy has a lot to learn and speed is all relative..it's it's a big sweeping open corner, that could be slow compared to a better rider. I suggest signing up for ChampU right now to learn from people who actually know what they're talking about...they're all current MotoAmerica professional racers that ride on the street too many of them. MotoJitsu.com/courses
instagram.com/motojitsuclub/
Yep, that guy doesn’t know what he’s talking about. You need to learn how to trail brake into corners, like racers do, and lean with your inside shoulder into the corner whilst counter steering. Best to learn how to ride on a dirt bike like all the best riders do. That way you get used to the bike moving underneath you and it doesn’t matter so much when you dump the bike. Listen to MotoJitsu here. Life At Lean is also an excellent bikers channel …
I saw you video a few month ago and it really thought me that I needed to relearn to correctly ride my new 2021 Yamaha FJR after being used to riding my Hayabusa for 20 years which it seems not quite the correct way. Thanks my man for your awesome safety advice, you’ve saved countless lives for sure🙏🏻
Two comments though, I use counter leaning in 35-45 mph corners ONLY when I don't have great visibility on blind corners, sometimes that doubles my visibility range, tied with holding the outside edge of the corner helps a lot. Not doing 45 in a 25 and counter leaning, but in a 45 mph corner going 45 with short visibility, I think it is much safer. Also, it is ok to accelerate if you enter slower than max speed, you can accelerate to a comfortable speed which you also did many times in this video. Don't peg the throttle, but it is ok to accelerate up to a safe comfort level.
I totally agree.
He's not wrong but his advice is generally for riders travelling at high speed.
I think there's a time and a place for counterlean. MrBCRC nailed it though. In general, his advice is on point.
@@corywalls7889 Just statements of Never counterlean I think could have been worded better. Bad idea when pushing the speed envelope for sure.
46 and just started riding a motorcycle. I have learned so much from your channel. Incredible.
Thank you very much from Belgium 🇧🇪
I’m so glad I started trail braking early on as it has saved me a few times while making other mistakes. Because the front tyre is already loaded I have been able to apply heavy brakes smoothly and get out of trouble.
Awesome stuff !! I’ve been riding on and off for about 10 years. I’m no pro. The part in this video that really opened my eyes was the acceleration part. It’s so true. And it happens. Easily. Thank you so much for the tip.
I started on a r3 recently and listen to to your videos frequently before I go out and practice. Feeling more and more confident week after week. Thanks for all you do!
10:16 This just happened to me on saturday on an unfamiliar road. Started leaning in way too soon found myself just on the double yellow with a car in the opposing lane. Thankfully i wasn’t going too fast (maybe 30mph) and was able to lean harder and avoid disaster. I need to practice this video!! I’m not a fast twisty kinda guy. These skills are so important regardless of your riding style!! THANK YOU…. Hope you survived all the rain!! 👍🏽😀
Thanks for the turn in too early lesson. It really helped me. What I do now is almost hug the white line. If you follow the white line you're only turning as the road does😎
Man, you're such a MASTER. Thanks very much! ❤
Im trying to get my first bike and preparing myself for the safety class. This video was a lot of help. A lot of guys I ask around just tell me to learn how to down shift, but it never made sense to me. Well done explaining this.
Ive been riding rot about 6 months and literally ive been doing everything your not suposse to. Thanks for this! I will start practicing this
😂🤦♂️
Just started riding again after a ten year pause. Your videos are extremely helpful. And I enjoy my bike so much more. Thanks! Lottsa love from Norway
🙏 great post.
I'm a little older and had always been taught to lean the bike with my body weight.
That is until I started counter steering.
Absolutely a game changer, look where you want to go counter steer and I've never had an issue.
All those guys tearing up the twisties when it's about taking it all in. I'll filter when traffic is slow but I'm happy to sit in free flowing traffic these days. Never a race to get somewhere.
We need many more people teaching the idiots out there thinking it's a race track
I have a Harley and I rely on engine braking way too much. I used to drive Interstate Trucks and it’s a bad habit of using the engine to slow down. I typically have slowed down way before the corner and essentially coast through the corner and power on from about mid way through the corner. I have to start keeping my speed up until I’m closer to the corner and then use the brakes more and maintain power throughout the corner. Great video.
I think overall this video is useful for new riders looking for some basic tips on cornering strategy, as a rider of 43 years now there are some things that I don't recommend, like braking in corners. Braking (and accelerating) are what I describe as thinking manoeuvres, you set your speed up for the corner and brake before going in then 100% follow your technique for entry & exit points, but braking in a bend should be for emergency only as it stands the bike up straight, especially for those riders who use the rear brake (I never use it) . Good cornering will come from experience and you get better when you stop thinking about it and it becomes natural. But keep up the good work, a lot will benefit from this.
smoothly braking is what he's saying and i think that's trail braking which is not bad at all when done correctly afaik.
The best advice newbies can get is that it’s very difficult to recover entering a corner too hot, so don’t do it! Learning how to trail brake into a corner like racers do is best, obviously …
After watching this video, I realize I was doing a lot of things wrong. So lucky it never get to me. Now it's a matter of unlearning those bad habits and learning the proper and safer habits of cornering. One of them is excessive engine braking( I really don't use my brakes on curves a lot of times. Second is where to position myself before a turn, when to start giving gas and lastly fighting off the bike(doing unnecessary leaning). I went riding today and notice a huge difference by not doing what I used to do and apply all of your advices. I gain more confidence on taking those turns and me(leaning more) rather than leaning the bike more. Love your videos man!
This reminds me oddly of when I transitioned from my 750/4 K2 to my first car, Beetle 1302S and I thought how easy it was to drive a car around corners. This skill of riding a bike was an art that you learnt naturally from bicycle to moped onto motorbikes and didnt realise how naturally the skill was being adopted, Getting back on a bike now, I am taking it real steady, hoping my original senses start to kick in again. Your patience while cornering comments also explain alot; my car now is a quattro drive and it can be powered out of a corner; this is something that is so engrained in me that I thought I was just driving so cautiously on the bike but as you say, you cant do the same on a bike, which is generally why cars are faster through curves
I learned to ride in 2003 with ZERO experience. I took an MSF course and approached the entire thing as a newbie. So, I have been riding over 20 years and never had an accident (thank God) but MANY close calls. I have ridden the biggest, fastest, heaviest and have never done anything you said in this video, probably because of my MSF course. The best advice I ever got when I took my course was "equal pressure, both brakes all the time." I currently ride a 2018 VMax and 2019 Fat Boy 114. Be safe out there... Its us against them.
Oh my gosh, thank you so much! It’s like the bike gods sent me this video exactly when I needed it. I’ve been riding for only a few months and am trying to refine how I corner. The first issue is 100% me. Thank you for explaining so well and giving a such a practical, implementable technique!
This video is incredibly helpful! Watching your videos is giving me lots more confidence (but not ego) and knowledge, so that when I start riding in the next few weeks I'll feel prepared and knowleadge enough to properly control my bike, and will keep practicing stopping, cornering and safe riding techniques to protect myself and others on the road. Thanks for all you do!!
This was really helpful for me. I've just gone from a Harley to a Ducati and I've realised my riding skills suck. This really helped.
Man I love these.
Successful lean angle (as in, not falling over) is a function of speed and curve radius. The equation is very rigid. If you grab the brake on a curve, you are changing speed, but your curve radius and lean angle are unchanged, therefore you will fail to maintain a successful lean angle. Physics ftw.
Also I love how you showed in the beginning basically the same thing, but modifying curve radius by modifying speed vs just modifying speed. Higher speed with a constant lean angle = larger radius, which in non-nerd speak means "Go faster, be pushed toward the outside of the curve. Go slower, be pushed toward the inside of the curve."
Youre essentially showing the derivative and integral of the same thing, its amazing.
I'm just starting out as a rider, matter of fact, getting my license tomorrow. I have had my bike for a few weeks, and it has stayed in the garage. MSF course had great instructors; your lessons are outstanding. Want to make sure I do it all correctly, that is what I am waiting for the "M". Then it is riding all around my neighborhood. I think I have spent more time watch your great videos than I spent in the MSF course.
Hate to sound like a fanboy, but this is the dude. Wish I’d had a resource like this when I started back in the 70’s.
His strength as a teacher is that he doesn’t just give you dos and don’ts; he tells you when and how. He gives “rules of thumb” that are easy to follow.
Been watching you for about a year now! Started riding last November, haven’t stopped learning 👏🏼🙌🏼
Good advice there, thanks. Many people say don’t touch the brakes during cornering, do all the braking beforehand and rely on engine braking during the turn itself, but you confirmed what all my instincts tell me… of course it’s ok to use the brakes but very smoothly and gradually. In some situations like steep downhill hairpins I don’t see how you can safely rely on engine braking except maybe in 1st gear after slowing to a crawl on approach. After braking as I approach a bend like that, I release slowly but not completely, I still have some light brake contact through the turn.
Great video. Hate to admit I've been riding for twelve years and fast on a Harley touring bike and I learned quite a bit
Thank you so much 'Musashi', there was no internet when me and my mates all taught ourselves to ride, that was 40 years ago, now relearning and releasing many old habits , love your work, presence and passion.
I once saw a TV program on car racing techniques.
On an animated diagram they drew the Apex of the turn on the road diagram... The same technique applies to motorcycles entering and existing a turn at high speeds.
That's a "visual lesson" that I have never forgotten...
Nice video, keep up the good advice.
I agree with the discussion below - if technique of this level is needed to be riding this motorcycle in this manner on this public road, that rider probably shouldn't be doing what he's doing on that road. He should either be going a lot slower, or he should be on a track under controlled conditions, where he can ride at those speeds safely without presenting a hazard to himself or others. Those speed limit signs aren't just window dressing; they are what they are for good reasons.
This is also why motorcycles are so much fun! Practising these techniques are making my rides so much more enjoyable. I thought after 40 years riding, I had no reason to learn any more. Thanks!
yes!
14:18 that's exactly what the bikes going to do. Braking makes the bike straighten itself up. Not grabbing the brakes is totally correct. You have to preload the suspension and then apply brake pressure. We call in 'Schwammbremse' in german which translates to sponge braking. Light in the beginning and really hard afterwards if necessary. As you said a bike can't handle abrupt loads. But either way, if you brake mid corner the bike is going to stand up. Thats another reason why you see so many people going straight. When choosing the wrong line and being to fast for example people tend to panic. Thats when target fixation and panic braking occurs. Braking makes their bike stand up and target fixation does the rest. When braking in a corner you must always push the bike downwards against the motion of it to set itself straight. Obviously very carefully because the centrifugal forces (lateral) as well as brake forces (longitudinal) are adding up which brings the tire to it's limit faster. Here's a video for reference (he's talking about accelerating but it's the same principle): ua-cam.com/video/tPsjr7jxO0o/v-deo.html
Cornering ABS is a great improvement from normal ABS or even no ABS. Have a look at this video which shows the upwards motion when braking in a corner: ua-cam.com/video/hHRWg91hv-M/v-deo.html
I can't agree with your third statement, never counter lean. It really depends on the situation you find yourself in. if you're tackling a long stretched curve regular leaning is the right way. Regarding quick evasive manoeuvres (obstacle in the road) it is best practice to initiate the evading motion by conter steering and then pushing the bike down (counter leaning). Even at speeds at around 50-60 kph. See this one for reference: ua-cam.com/video/U1mSavQ_DXs/v-deo.html
Great first tip when entering a corner. Here's an example where this would have been helpful (4:34): ua-cam.com/video/ZCiqWGXAiNI/v-deo.html
Another one for target fixation (0:58): ua-cam.com/video/0uqF7kV8FIk/v-deo.html
Great tips to master cornering. The first one to learn/understand is "counter steering". Too many people do not understand this and use their body wieght to initiate a turn vs using the handlebars to apply pressure on inside bar (turning left to go right) to make the bike turn.
This was very educational, you makes sense to me. I’m a new rider from Oklahoma so we have nothing like this out here I’m cruising around at, but this is one of the funniest videos ever watched. It really made me feel like I was in those terms with you.. awesome
I've been riding 36 years and taken numerous advanced riding courses in recent years. What amazes me is how I'm still learning! This was a great video, thank you.
Excellent. When you enter the turn later, you can choose to come out high or low in your lane. If you enter early, you'll be forced to come out high. Any time you add throttle in a turn it will try to stand your bike up. Wait until you want it to come up.
This dude totally described my lucky learning curve it its entirety. LOL I did it on a dirt bike though, and knew how to skid as a first practice lesson, so that is the lucky part. When I got on a street bike, it was sooooo easy to learn what traction is!
Great advice, though if you have a lot of miles on your bike you can absolutely know how much braking will be applied by downshifting. I ride in the north GA mountains often (pretty technical riding) and almost never brake in the twisties because I'm so familiar with my bike's engine braking + throttle control.
I really like these videos. It's perfect since he explains it all so slow and detailed while he's actually doing it. I'm just starting out and definitely scared of my brakes right now. These vids are giving me a lot more confidence. My neighbors are going to really hate me by the time I'm done practicing around my neighborhood 😅
Hi brother..a good followup would be what to do when your in the turn and you suddenly see an obstacle.. sand,gravel or a rodent in your path.
Great video. I've had a few bikes but have never gotten much formal training. Your video makes me realize I should. In the meantime, I'll practice this. Thanks.
counterleaning is actually very usefull on a lot of mountain roads.
A trick I have learned is to look at the outside line ( white line) as far ahead as I can. This will have you slowing down and matching your speed to the curve radius, it stops the throttle chop because you have more time to plan you turning, taking care NOT to get target fixation, continue look as far ahead on that line as you can. ( i generally ride 10mph over the posted speed limit in curves then an able to pass by passing just pass the apex when people are pushing out wide.
Great vid man, made me realize ive been turning in to early as I often find myself worrying about going wide exiting a turn. Time to put the knowledge to work.
dude you dont even realise how helpful this is.... youre a godsend thank you so much!
I do really appreciate another Rider's perspective. After 50 years of riding... looking to the outside of the turn is probably the worst thing you could do in my opinion
Helpful reminder. I’ve been riding for over 40 years on the road, and I always have trouble shifting mental gears between street and track mode. With no oncoming traffic, and the whole width all yours, on most track turns you’re all the way inside, so you can crack the throttle open when you’re at the apex and allow plenty of room for the bike to run back outside as you accelerate off. And on track, most turns you have clear sight lines. Totally different on the road with most twisties having obscured sight lines, and the constant danger of oncoming traffic.
Probably the best explanation of this subject anywhere! Please keep it up! You probably already saved a life!
Beautifully explained and demonstrated. Fantastic video! Many thanks from a newbie who is working on his cornering technique.
Man... i never thought about that first point on turning too early... so obvious... but i never thought about it. Grateful for your videos
This session is so helpful, I was having issues on what to do on turns, I was shifting and releasing the throttle now I see the difference, Thank you
been watching your lessons for many years since i won my motorcycle from a raffle. fyi, i didnt even know how to ride when i won it. thank you so much!
Very good tips. Thank you for sharing. I’ve been riding for approx 20 years and I’m constantly looking to learn.
Buying my second bike and I was going to get a Yamaha r3 I’m watching your videos for riding tips and you ever had a review for the bike I’m looking at. Thanks!
At first I thought this was another bs newb video, but then I found it to be helpful. I've never verbalized how I negotiate corners, it just seemed natural; as crashing was not an option. Out of all the vids I've watched people crash in, I could not understand HTH they were crashing, yet not on a road course. This fantastic vid explains a lot. Thank you!
Thanks!your videos are a voice of reason vs all the BS on motorcycling on the internet.
Sometimes I feel the same way! Especially since I get emailed all kinds of videos to watch and answer questions about and half the time the person talking is missing so much context, doesn't understand when and where what they're talking about is relevant or is just simply wrong. Thank you!
Agree with the brake pads. Same applies to cars. Better to wear pads more often and reset brake caliper pistons. As if you ride for to long on worn pads the pistons are exposed and rust. And will eventually not return to default position and always drag on the discs. Good points on the cornering tips.
Nice Thanks!
12:48 love the gun analogy… I am sure there’ll be someone that thinks that they could move the stock out in time to correct the direction of the bullet 😂
Another great how-to or not-to video! Keep up the great content. The riding community needs it!
I honestly thought counter lean was a legit technique in a corner; I don’t know if I ever really used it but I validated it and experimented.
thank you for absolving me of that idea
I been thinking about buying a bike and this info is gold to me thank you so much for this.
Thanks for sharing your awesome knowledge Greg...
I bought your App dude...love it bro.
Sean
South Africa
I love that you're in San Diego so I can relate to where you're training. I just bought a bike, took the PSC course, and and trying to figure out what's next. I don't want to wreck my new bike so I'm looking for places to train. It looks like Mt. Palomar is the place to go for the twisties! Thanks.
SoCal Supermoto and MotoVentures Level 2 is next
MotoJitsu.com/courses
I felt like I was riding the bike, such a profound experience. Thank you!
Having only ridden my pcx four times this was very helpful. Thank you.
Been riding for years . Death Valley , LA TO DV. Rode X cross country twice, did. most of the good stuff . Bear tooth, Dragon, etc. I ride mostly BMW’s. Today I have in the garage a 2021 R1250GSA, 2020 BMW k1600 bagger , and the new R1800 cruiser for around town, to gym etc. love riding !!!! I ride spirited , but safe. I like high speed sweepers , the tights , slow parking lot maneuvers. Love it all. Me and my friends all use Sena to communicate & of course listen to music. I’m usually the guy in the front of the pack enjoying the beautiful roads on my GSA . Anyway Would love some fine tuning . a day of riding & getting feedback from you via Sena in the Sweepers , the tights, ascending, & descending. Or basically follow your line while your explaing your thought process . Maybe meet up at 10am. Ride until lunchtime , grab a bite , discuss the ride. & finish it there . Three hrs. Total time ??? As far as concerns e.g. liability, I can walk you through it. No issues FOR YOU. And, it will be a great day of riding for sure . Thoughts ? I’ll delete this comment in a few days so you don’t bombarded . Lol 😂. Love the content here. !!!
Beautiful MT07 btw, I just bought the same one yesterday! Thnx for the advices.
Wow I think your video is one of the BEST ive ever seen about it! Thanks for that mate and keep it up!!
I was the one who used to rely only on my downshifting, after your video was I life changed!
thanks mate!
welcome! :)
linktr.ee/GregWidmar
Such a helpful video for a brand new rider here. Thanks ever so much! x
Man.thank you for making those videos and explaining how to control your motorcycle on the road.
I been following you and really helping me a lot. I really appreciate. Thank you
The counter-leaning part made me scared haha
Thank you. I had my 400cc. over 20 years ago. I miss it.
Good stuff. I’m a life long rider in his 60’s, and can honestly say that developing riding skill (and safety) is an on going journey. One point you didn’t mention was the idea of getting all braking done in a straight line when entering a corner, and _then_ initiating corner turn-in. Next is the idea to _gently_ apply throttle to unload the ft wheel during the corner as you approach exit. That was conventional wisdom 30+ yrs ago with the bikes we had then. What’s the current thinking?
It's changed a bit. People are breaking into the corner to keep the front wheel loaded. Look up trail breaking and apex cornering.
Yup -Leaning your upper body into the curve, AND leaning forward, puts your arms and body in the right position. Inner arm relaxed and controlling the bar. Doesn't have to be like a racer - just a smooth change of body position. Also helps you focus, as you mind will follow your body.
I don’t think forward does anything but that’s more personal preference vs technique
I’ve run wide twice in the years that I’ve been riding and couldn’t understand why, until now. Thanks for making things perfectly clear. Great video. How was it possible to ride that route with minimal traffic? And on such a nice day?
Some of the best tips and clear explanations I've ever seen! Not to mention, the best road to explain them on. Fantastic job my friend! Is there anything you would add or modify for us cruzers (GL1800)?
Great lesson, I need to write this on the inside of my visor🤣
That was literally one of the most helpful videos I've watched. Thank you for that.
Bro your videos are awesome. I'm a new rider and this info is priceless. Ty so much for the effort you put into these videos
Super important info every rider should know and well explained ! listen to this guy ! Keep up the good work
“When you downshift you’re just relying on the engine to somehow mind read how much you want to slow down and how fast you want to slow down”. Not in the case you know your motorcycle, how the engine and the gear box interact at different speeds. You learn which shift is suitable to engage according to your speed and the way you want to slow down. Of course you have to be confident with your brakes, but also with the engine and gearbox. Build comradeship with your motorcycle, you’ll never regret it!
I know the back roads of San Diego pretty well but it took pausing at the mile marker to figure this one. South Grade on Palomar Mountain. I rode it only once. The end of the ride for many Marines from Pendlton.
Thank you from Rome, good tutorial especially how you cut the parts of a turn it was rly crystal clear..!
Had my first ever road ride with my instructor last week and I crashed straight into a power pole and this video explained pretty much all the mistakes I made. Glad I’m okay but my instructor never told me what the route looks like and skipped all the crucial steps. The first thing I was told is telling me I’ll have to pay for the repair cost. I wasn’t comfortable to do the road ride but I was like alright if my instructor thinks I’m ready cos all I did was slow riding and figure-8 at the motorcycle school. It was a bit scary tho but it’s not gonna stop me from riding a motorcycle, think I just need to get another instructor knows what they’re doing
you live somewhere where they take you out on the public road right during your beginner training? To me, as an instructor for 8 years, that's absolutely insane and would never do that or teach at a place that required students to do it. Just the liability alone is nuts.
im a new rider - Thanks for doing this, this helps a lot as you literally anser all the questions i have got.
Awesome video, thank you! Just passed MSF today, this was just what I needed.
Good vid sir. What I found a long time ago follow what the bike wants to do if that makes any sense. But yeah learning how to attack turns is something beyond important.
Dang dude this was a super informative video.. saw another one where you talked about confidence in your tires and this video compliments that one well
Those videos saves life. Thanks so much
Great videos just got back from a trip to the Smokey mountains practiced your techniques. Just awesome thanks you for the knowledge.
simple yet very helpful. Thank you for the lesson good sir!