What does countersteering mean?

Countersteering refers to the technique used by motorcyclists to initiate a turn. When a rider wants to lean into a turn, they will actually push the handlebar in the opposite direction of the turn. This action causes the motorcycle to lean to the desired direction of the turn.

For example, if a rider intends to turn left, they would push the left handlebar down, which makes the bike lean to the left and enables a smoother and safer turn. This concept is crucial for handling a motorcycle effectively, especially at higher speeds, as it helps maintain stability and control.

The other choices do not accurately describe the countersteering technique. Pushing the handlebar in the same direction of the turn would not effectively initiate the lean necessary for a turn, maintaining a steady grip on the throttle is important for overall riding but is not related specifically to the mechanics of turning, and pulling on the brake while turning can lead to loss of control. Understanding countersteering is essential for all motorcycle riders to navigate turns safely and confidently.