Hazard Avoidance and Emergency Maneuvers
Search, Evaluate, Execute
Scan about 12 seconds ahead and keep your eyes at the escape path, not the hazard. Evaluate the threat, then execute one maneuver at a time - the exam rewards the correct sequence far more than bravery.
Braking and swerving
- Threshold braking: both brakes, handlebars straight, progressive squeeze on the front lever, light-to-firm pressure on the rear pedal, eyes up. The front brake supplies most of the stopping power, and grabbing it locks the wheel.
- Swerve: press the grip on the side you want to go - press right and the bike leans and goes right - then press the other grip to straighten out. Do not brake and swerve at the same time: brake first, release the levers, then swerve.
Curves
Slow before the curve, look through it to the exit, press the inside grip, roll on smoothly. Braking mid-corner stands the bike up; if you must shed speed in a curve, straighten first, brake, then re-lean.
Skids
Rear wheel skidding: stay on the rear pedal and keep the bars straight until you stop, because releasing a rear tire that is spinning up can high-side you. Front wheel skidding: ease off the front lever, let the wheel roll again, then reapply more gently.
Worked example
A van pulls out about 60 feet ahead. Braking hard and swerving at once usually locks a wheel. Correct sequence: squeeze both brakes to scrub speed, release them, press the right grip to swerve right, then straighten and either stop or ride on.
Traps that cost marks
Staring at the obstacle instead of the escape path; braking hard in a curve; grabbing a fistful of front brake on gravel or wet paint; releasing the rear brake partway through a skid.