Why You Shouldn’t Shift Gears While Turning a Motorcycle

Why You Shouldn’t Shift Gears While Turning a Motorcycle

Have you ever felt that rush of adrenaline while leaning into a turn on your motorcycle? It’s one of the most exhilarating feelings out there, but there’s a crucial rule many riders overlook—shifting gears during a turn is not advised. Let’s dive into why that is, and how you can keep safe while enjoying your rides.

Understanding the Risks

You know what? Shifting gears during a turn might seem harmless, especially if you’re moving slowly. After all, many of us instinctively shift gears all the time, right? However, shifting gears while turning can lead to the rear wheel locking up. What does that mean for you? Loss of control and a higher chance of an accident.

When you shift gears mid-turn, it creates an abrupt change in power delivery to the rear wheel. Picture this: you’re leaned over, carving through a curve when suddenly, bam—you shift gears. That sudden change can overwhelm your tire's grip, leading to a dangerous skid that puts you at risk of crashing. It’s like throwing a dart while the target is spinning—you need stable conditions to hit your mark!

The Scoop on Speed and Stability

Here’s the thing: maintaining a steady speed and gear during a turn is key. It fosters smooth handling and enhances control over your bike. When you dive into a turn with a consistent rhythm, your motorcycle remains stable, and you can predictably maneuver through the curve. Think of your bike as a well-rehearsed dance partner—you both need to move in sync to avoid stepping on toes, or worse, losing your balance.

What Happens When You Shift?

So, what actually occurs when you shift gears while turning? The sudden change in power can lead to the rear wheel slipping, which is a recipe for disaster.

• Tire Traction Loss: Your contact patch with the road plays a crucial role in maintaining traction. Shifting could cause the rear wheel to lose grip just when you need it the most.
• Skidding or Sliding: If the back tires lose traction, they might skid or slide, which can lead to a crash.
• Unstable Handling: Your bike's behavior becomes unpredictable, just when you need it to be the most stable.

Smooth Sailing is the Way to Go

As tempting as it is to upshift or downshift to control speed, especially if you feel the urge to change it mid-turn, try to resist that urge. Instead, focus on steady throttle management. You’ll find that the bike handles much more predictably when you're not wrestling with the gears.

Stay Safe Out There

It's crucial to understand that motorcycling, while thrilling, requires not just skill but an understanding of safe practices. Next time you gear up for a ride, remember this golden nugget of wisdom: keep it smooth, keep it steady. By avoiding gear shifts in turns, you significantly reduce the chance of losing grip and putting yourself at risk. Safety first means a better ride and a longer lifespan for you and your bike.

So, the next time you're rockin’ your way through Ontario's beautiful roads, keep those thoughts in mind. Your safety and enjoyment ride on the decisions you make! Stay safe, ride smart.