What should you do if you begin to skid on a motorcycle?

When you begin to skid on a motorcycle, the most effective action is to release the throttle and steer in the direction you want to go. This technique helps to stabilize the motorcycle and regain control during a skid. By easing off the throttle, you reduce the power being sent to the rear wheel, which may be sliding. Steering in the direction you wish to go helps to align the bike’s tires with the path of travel, further aiding in recovery from the skid.

Accelerating to regain control can worsen the skid, as it increases power to the rear wheel, which might cause it to slide even more. Applying the front brake hard can lead to a loss of front-wheel traction, making the situation more precarious. Turning the handlebars sharply can destabilize the motorcycle and potentially lead to a fall, as sudden movements at high speeds often result in loss of control. Therefore, the safest and most effective response in a skid is to ease the throttle and steer toward your intended direction.