What does it mean to “countersteer”?

Countersteering is a technique used in motorcycle riding to initiate a turn effectively. When you countersteer, you actually push the handlebars in the opposite direction of the turn you want to make. For instance, if you want to turn left, you would gently push the left handlebar forward, causing the motorcycle to lean to the left and allowing for a smoother and more controlled turn.

This method is crucial because it helps the motorcycle achieve the necessary lean angle, which is essential for maintaining balance and stability when cornering. By leaning the bike into the turn, the rider can shift their weight appropriately, enabling the tires to maintain better traction and control through the curve.

Understanding countersteering is fundamental for safe motorcycle operation, especially at higher speeds or in tight turns where standard steering methods may not provide the required control. It emphasizes the importance of body positioning and the motorcycle's physics to navigate corners efficiently.