Basic Vehicle Control: Starting, Shifting, Braking, Turning, and Lane Position
Starting and moving off
New Mexico's test expects a smooth, deliberate start. With the bike in neutral, turn on the fuel and ignition, confirm the kill switch is in the run position, squeeze the clutch, shift into first, and ease the clutch out until you feel the friction zone. Add a little throttle as the clutch engages. On a hill, hold the rear brake or use the friction zone so you do not roll backward.
Shifting
Pull the clutch, close the throttle slightly, shift, then release the clutch smoothly and roll on throttle. Downshift before a turn or a stop, not during the lean. Avoid coasting in neutral-you need power to stabilize the bike.
Braking
Apply both brakes at the same time. On clean pavement the front brake provides most of the stopping power, so squeeze it progressively rather than grabbing. Keep the bike upright and the front wheel straight. If the rear wheel skids, keep it locked until stopped; if the front locks, release it immediately and reapply.
Turning
Slow to a safe entry speed before the turn, look through the curve to the exit, press the handlebar on the inside of the turn, and roll on the throttle gently as you lean. Do not brake hard while leaned.
Lane position
A lane has three usable positions: left, center, and right. The center often collects oil and is slippery. Choose the position that gives you the best view and escape path, and change it as traffic changes.
Worked example
You approach a 90-degree right turn from a stop. Reasoning: finish braking before turn-in, select first gear, look through the corner, use the friction zone, lean slightly, and roll on smoothly. Braking mid-turn or staring at the curb would widen your path.
Traps
Grabbing the front brake, shifting in a turn, riding in the oily center by habit, and entering a corner too fast.