How to Avoid Skidding on Your Motorcycle

Skidding on a motorcycle can be a frightening experience for new and experienced bike riders alike. If you aren’t careful, you can slide out and hit the pavement or crash with another vehicle, which is extremely dangerous. You can take some proactive steps to prevent skidding. We’ve gathered some tips below to help you stay safe on the road. Read on to learn more. For all your motorcycle needs, visit St. Charles Harley-Davidson®. You’ll find us in St. Charles, MO.

Stay in Control of Your Bike

If your motorcycle skids and you lose control, it will become difficult to prevent a crash. Do everything you can to stay in control. Rain, snow, gravel, and other factors can make the surface dangerously slick. You’ll need to drive defensively, which means if you're approaching a turn or a patch of road that looks slick, slow down and take it easy.

Avoid Sudden Movements

Sudden movements, such as changing direction quickly or slamming on the brakes, can cause your motorcycle to skid. Instead, make smooth, gradual movements and be mindful of your speed as well as the road conditions.

Keep Your Weight Balanced

Your weight plays a big role in maintaining the motorcycle’s traction on the road. Keep your weight balanced over the center of the bike and avoid leaning too far in one direction. Unfortunately, if your bike skids, try to keep balanced and prevent it from sliding out entirely. In such a case, you’ll want to shift your body weight to place more weight on the rear wheel.

By following these tips, you can decrease your chances of skidding. Remember to bring your motorcycle in for repairs when you notice any problems. At St. Charles Harley-Davidson®, we are happy to offer parts replacement and service options. Our expert staff can fix issues with your bike and get it running like new in no time. We proudly serve all those in St. Louis and St. Peters, MO.