Hazards and Emergency Maneuvers: Surfaces, Swerving, Quick Stops, and Crashes
Surface hazards
Sand, gravel, oil, wet leaves, painted lines, steel plates, and bridge decks reduce traction. Slow down before you reach them, keep the bike upright, and avoid braking or leaning hard on the hazard. Cross railroad tracks at about 90 degrees; if you must cross at an angle, the front wheel can be deflected. Watch for ice on bridges and shaded curves.
Swerving
To swerve, press the handlebar on the side you want to go and then press the opposite side to straighten out. Swerve and brake separately: braking while swerving can make the front wheel lose traction. Pick the escape path before you need it.
Stopping quickly
Apply both brakes progressively, keep your eyes up, and keep the front wheel straight. The front brake does most of the work. If the rear skids, stay on the rear brake; if the front locks, release and reapply. Practice in a safe lot so the reflex is trained.
Crashes
Most motorcycle crashes involve a car at an intersection, and speed and alcohol are common factors. If a crash is unavoidable, reduce speed, keep control, and aim for a path that avoids a head-on impact.
Worked example
A car pulls out 100 feet ahead at 40 mph. Reasoning: at 40 mph you cover about 59 feet per second, so 100 feet is under two seconds-too little for a stop. A swerve may be the better choice if there is a clear escape path; braking alone may not stop you in time.
Traps
Braking during a swerve; locking the front brake; staring at the hazard; and crossing train tracks at a shallow angle.