BiXXer Bob wrote:I once did a slow riding course organised by the IAM (yes, on me 'Bird). As well as learning to turn it tighter than I ever thought possible, I learned a very simple technique that works really good after a bit of practice. It works for U turns, but it also works for those awkward, off-camber-emerging-from-a-junction-turning-right situations.
The police qualified instructor showed us: start with the bike stationary (bleedin' obvious), clutch in, first gear engaged, left foot down and right foot on the brake, no front brake lever (most of the slow part of the course banned the use of the front brake lever completely). Next raise the revs to a normal (not wheelie) level for pulling away. Let the clutch out until it just begins to bite. Now, keep the clutch and throttle steady. don't change either. Instead, control the speed you move off with the rear brake. If you're U turning, move slowly forward controlling the speed with the rear brake, not the throttle or clutch. If you're pulling out of a junction control your speed with the rear brake until you're straight and upright, then come off the brake, clutch out anf off y' go. The theory is that the engine spinning at a couple of thou' revs generates some of the gyroscopic stability that you get from the wheels when you're going faster but is missing when going slowly. It takes a bit of practice but it soon comes and the bike feels much more settled and stable.
Find an empty car park to try it out. You'll feel like a tool but it's worth it.
when i did my DAS two years ago i was taught exactly the same technique. only one thing to add, pick a spot over your shoulder well into the distance and look at it, you will follow the way you are looking, never look at the kerb as you will then no doubt hit it!
