Cornering tips

Fifty-one per cent of motorcycle deaths occur on bends

Every time you come around a blind corner you are at risk. Nine out of ten rider fatalities occur when the motorcycle crosses into the oncoming lane or runs off the road. That's a warning sign for all of us to slow down and not become a statistic.

Road conditions can change instantly. Just consider the effect a smear of diesel fuel will have on the grip of your tyres. Good riders can deal with poor surfaces, but only once they have the experience to deal with them.

Conditions change on every road. The road surface is part of your riding environment, just like the weather or the traffic density, and you need to give it attention.

The simple reality is that you will inevitably encounter difficult road surfaces, and for your own sake you need to be ready for them. The discipline of good observation helps you to see, assess and then deal with these kinds of risks.

Starting corners wide will improve your vision. Planning to finish them in tight will help you get your speed right and leave you room for slight errors. Most importantly, keep away from the head on zone. Taking corners this way will slow you down a little on the approach but will allow you to accelerate out much earlier, when you have a clear view.

Start wide for vision.
Plan to finish in tight.
Keep away from the head-on zone.