Most of us are probably unfamiliar with the technique of counter-steering or think it’s something for racing fellows only. It is exactly what it sounds like: You turn left when you want to go right—basically, to initiate the turn, you turn the handlebar in the direction opposite to the one you want the bike to go in.
It sounds a bit crazy at first.
Actually, it is very effective if you need to take a sudden turn and save yourself from an accident.
What is counter steering?
In simple terms, counter steering is applying force on the opposite handlebar than where you intend to go, but the motorcycle tends to go in the same direction where you intended to go. It is not actually turning the handlebar in the opposite direction; it is just applying a little force onto the handlebar in the direction you want to go.
If you want to go right suddenly, then you push on to the right handlebar, which turns the handle towards the left slightly. This will cause the motorcycle to go to the left for an instant, but the motorcycle will change direction quickly and will end up going towards the right only. The bike will also lean towards the right without any inputs from the rider. You can do the same for going left also. So, in conclusion, look right, push right and go right.
A person needs to practice counter steering first. Experiencing it makes it more understandable. If you think that doing it on a motorcycle is too dangerous, you can try to do it on a cycle. The basic principle remains the same. If you want to go left, you push on the handlebar's left side, and the cycle automatically turns left, that too with a greater lean angle.
Things to remember or do while practicing counter-steering
You need to make sure that you are in an empty space when you are practicing it. So, try to practice it in an empty parking lot or some similar space.
The force you use to push the handlebars directly proportionate to the lean angle you will get. If you push very hard, the motorcycle will have a greater lean angle, but more importantly, the counter steering effect will also be more. So, remember not to overdo it.
Also, always look where you want to go. The motorcycle always ends up going where the driver or rider's chin is pointing at. Remember to look in the correct direction because our body balance tends to shift where we look without us knowing.
Advantages of counter steering
Turning in case of emergency
The biggest advantage of counter steering is that your steering response increases by a big margin. So, if something like an animal appears in front of you, you would be able to dodge it much faster if you counter steer.
Better cornering
Counter steering leads to better cornering because the rider does not feel the weight, so the lean angles could be greater while carrying more speed. The bike feels effortless while doing so because physics is working for you. This is why counter steering is used so much in racing, as it helps in shaving off those milliseconds from the lap times.
Better control
If you practice counter steering enough, then you can experience better control over your motorcycle. You will feel that you are better able to control your motorcycle, and it will also increase the maneuverability of your motorcycle.
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TVS Community
17 May 2021