What is the appropriate response to a tire blowout while riding?

The appropriate response to a tire blowout while riding is to grip the handlebars firmly and slow down gradually. This action is critical because it helps maintain control of the motorcycle. When a tire blows out, the bike can start to wobble or become difficult to handle, so keeping a firm grip on the handlebars allows you to steer effectively.

Slowing down gradually helps prevent loss of control. Abrupt braking can lead to skidding or falling, particularly if the front tire is affected. Instead, decelerating gradually reduces speed in a controlled manner, allowing you to safely maneuver the motorcycle and find a safe place to stop.

In contrast, panicking or braking hard can result in loss of stability. Accelerating to maintain balance could lead to further complications, especially if a tire fails on one side, which is likely to make the bike more unstable. Immediately pulling off the road without first decelerating can be dangerous, as sudden changes in speed and direction can lead to an accident. Hence, the advised response emphasizes control and gradual mitigation of speed to ensure safety on the road.