If you ever come to the right coast let us know I'm in E. Tn. I've rode The Dragon it's alot to take in I'd ride with you but not knuckle heads like max
Great video. Burgman 650 driver here. Let them know it makes no difference if you're on a motorcycle, scooter, or even a bicycle these riles still apply!
If you only knew how much you do for bikers new and old? A lot! ...You are one of the best. If only I was qualified I'd wear one of your shirts. I've been riding for many years but learn something whenever I catch one of your training videos. I started out on an old Triumph, no gear, no bike safety stuff. Most of us just didn't wear or could afford. Gives me shivers when I think about that now. Waiting for Spring and my new GS. Then I'll follow your "shut up and practice" and the gear you use. We don't agree all the time but you're the boss.
This has to be one of, if not the best explanation of counter steering I have seen - he actually explains that the "push" is only to get the lean, then stop pushing and let the bike take itself around the corner. Too many other vids neglect to mention the push is only for a fraction of a second. Well done that man!
MotoJitsu literally taught me how to ride a bike from zero experience to making u-turns and doing fast cornering comfortably in just a couple of months with your countersteering and trail braking videos. I've seen a few other training videos out there but you are the most straightforward and easiest to understand so far. Hands down you're the best motorcycle instructor on youtube!
Holy shit dude. I've been riding for 25 years. I'm *very* comfortable with countersteering. But I never really paid a lot of attention to it, my body just did what it did. Paying attention to it as a result has showed me why I turn better to the right. So much better. I've been struggling with this problem for years and never figured it out. I'll turn right and scrape pegs super comfortably, but to the left I just never manage to be comfortable. Turns out, I steer entirely with my right hand, and when I'm turning right and pushing right, I'm also rolling off the throttle and often trailing the front brake, so interrupting the throttle isn't an issue. But when I turn left, I'm pulling on the right grip and this tends to pull the throttle open a little more, making the bike want to stand up a little bit. I'd never have figured this out without spending some time just being conscious of how I turn, so thanks for the encouragement to go *think* about what I'm doing on autopilot!
That was an absolute education. Cornering is scary for an (old) beginner. Time for much PRACTICE. Now I know WHAT to practice. Concise and excellent. Heed watchers!!!
Best explanation of this that I've seen on RUclips. Most people miss the fact that the steering corrects and ends up pointing the 'right' way once you're established in the turn.
Grimbeard This is very important and not explained in most counter steering videos. It confused me greatly why my front wheel was pointing in the “correct” direction even though I was practicing “counter steering”. Thought I was doing something wrong and would push again causing the bike to not corner smoothly. Thanks FE. Now time to apply this realization and practice in the car park.
I started riding again (after 30 years) 12 years ago, commuting, so I got a LOT of kms in little time (first bike about 65000 in less than 3 years), now I'm retired but still ride every day unless there's ice on the road. All I can say is 12 years and some 150000 kms later, I can still learn from your video's!
I don't think I could ride without counter steering, it's a natural action after 44yrs of off and on road riding, thanks for instruction, always learning something new.
I have been riding 25 years and with this lock down I've been watching your videos and I've learned more in a few days than 25 years esp your counter steering and trail braking techniques, my bike went in for a clutch just before lock down and they still have it so i went out on my bicycle and tried counter steering totally amazing how easy it is I even got both pedals down lol thank you so much you are saving lives God bless you
To me, this was the best counter steering video of all. You're the only one that ever said pull with opposite hand instead of everyone emphasizing pushing which ALWAYS confused the heck out of me, even if I've supposedly been doing it my entire life. I pull, which pulls me up for the set up before the opposite lean. Thank you for coloring this in with crayon for me. First time I understood it practically in over 30 years
Again, I think I've wrote this before, your (@motojitsu) videos are extremely explanatory and the best source of information on RUclips for all level of riders, but especially for beginner riders! 👌 I've watched dozens and dozens of videos (literally!) and everyone explains motorcycle cornering wrong! They give you the (wrong!) perception that a motorcycle turns by use of counter steering, instead of explaining that counter steering is used to INITIATE THE TURN ONLY(!!!) and then you "undo" the counter steering (or let the bike undo it by means of the "caster angle") and steer the bike all the way into the turn. BIG DIFFERENCE!!🤬 You did this in the very few seconds of the explanation! It was a AHA moment for me! 👊 What I've noticed is that everyone explains motorcycle cornering from an experienced rider perspective with years and years of riding, that have totally forgotten what it is like to be a beginner rider, that doesn't know the basics. And then go about explaining things from that perspective of an experienced rider! Thanks for the video. Keep it up! 😁✌
Thanks for the great tip about coming to a stop light and doing a last second push with the left hand to load the bike on to a standing left foot. So simple yet so frustrating as here in the UK there's no way at the moment to go out and practice as temps are close to zero a lot of the day and the roads are lethal. Its clocked however in my brain and joins all those other nuggets I've picked up from you recently. You are an inspiration mate particularly as I have a new GS 1250 and you make it all look so easy on yours.....
I'm new to riding; I'm middle-aged; everything I had experienced in my life so far told me this was nonsense. I listened; I experienced it; I practiced...it works. When you first do it you feel like Gandalf defying the laws of physics...perhaps I need to learn a little more about physics. Thank you! It took me about six hours to stop grinning after trying this.
Not from the US but your channel has been very helpful on my journey on finally obtaining my bike license 2 days ago. Got to experience counter-steering when our instructor took us on high speed road lessons, it was so much easier to turn in a corner. Not counter steering just felt like you were fighting the bike. Your emergency braking and throttle control videos really helped me out as well throughout the course.
8:35 This. I thought I was weird, I mainly steer with my left hand too. Thanks for the videos. I’m getting back into riding after 20 years and you have helped me so much.
This was very helpful! A few weeks ago, a driver cut into my lane as I was exiting a multiple lane roundabout on a curve. I had to turn fast to avoid him. It was raining and my bike slipped on the partition road paint and I fell off and skidded across the road. Since then, I had lost all my confidence with counter steering! Whereas in the past, it just came naturally to me, afterwards I was doubting myself. I was completely overthinking it and getting myself mixed up, when it really is very simple once you get a feel for it. This video has put into words what I was dong by instinct before the crash and I have been able to get back my steering confidence. Thank-you!
100% correct in practice! Thank you! I've been practicing this the entire time since completing the Beginners Rider Course. However, Counter Steering was NOT taught at the BRC. I have a 7 mile stretch from my house to town which is a medium winding mountain road. I started practicing one handed counter steering that really verified the absolute necessity of counter steering. Now that I 'physically' and consciously practice this one handed counter steering technique in more tighter curves it has really built a lot of confidence. Thank you mister!
I just started watching your videos on a recommendation from MC Rider. I found this video to be very interesting but I wanted to make a couple of comments and a request of sorts. I started riding over 50 years ago and was self taught so I am sure I have some bad habits. At first I had no idea about counter steering but I think an article by Kevin Cameron made me aware of what I was doing without being aware of it. I have lived in a lot of locales with twisty mountainous roads so that I have kind of developed my own cornering techniques. I find that entering a turn I push on the handlebar on the side of the direction I want to go, classic counter steering. I only do it entering the turn. I maintain my turning through a combination of leaning, weighting the bike by pressure on the inside peg or seat and subtle throttle control. Exiting the the turn I pull on the side of the handle bar on the side of the direction I want to go in conjunction with the application of the needed amount of throttle. I don't generally like to ride with groups but when I do I don't see anyone else employing the techniques. I would like to see you do a video discussing these techniques if appropriate. I may be doing things that are all wrong but they work for me. I have only watched a handful of your videos but I like what I have seen. You go deeply into the basics where most of what I have seen only addressed the general concepts. I have sent a link to my daughter who is a fairly new rider who has told me she is having some issues mainly with slow speed and U turns. I believe your tutorials will be a big help for her. Your comment of keeping your foot off the rear brake until you become more proficient is invaluable. She was having trouble as she was taught to use the throttle and the brake. I think this is too much for a new rider and even for me with some of the new bikes being leaned out so much are troublesome at low speeds not being able to maintain a constant rpm level. Anyway, thanks for all you do, I hope you see this as this video was done so long ago.
Thanks for watching, MCrider is a good guy. Yes, counter steering is just to get the bike to lean, you don’t that the entire turn. The front tire does turn itself into the turn, it’s called the caster effect of trail if you want to look it up. I recommend reading all the books I encourage all riders to read...I just posted it a few weeks ago and get into some high level courses like Total Control Advanced Riding Clinic:) totalcontroltraining.net
Do you have any idea how many videos I had to watch to find out that you only countersteer until you have the correct lean, then let the steering correct itself? Nobody else I've watched says this. For all I knew before, you were supposed to hold the countersteer through the corner. It's such a simple, yet absolutely essential piece of information that so many other 'tutorials' don't cover. As someone who is beginning their riding journey with the MSF course in just under a month, THANK YOU. Obviously I'll be speaking to the instructors and bombarding them with questions when the time comes, but I'm doing what I can to go into the course as well-informed as possible. Oh, and obviously practicing once I get my bike. Lots of relatively low-traffic roads with lazy curves is one advantage of living in a rural area. I'll definitely be taking them at the recommended speed for a good while. I also think the local church parking lot and I will become the best of friends.
Finally someone actually tells you not to leave the bars turned. Every video I watch makes you think you leave it turned, also they try saying their counter steering while clearly pushing left and going right (turning right to go right) and calling it counter steering
No idea...I don't watch other people's videos. I'm a motorcycle instructor who makes videos...there's a lot of RUclipsrs who ride motorcycles, big difference.
I haven't seen anyone explaining counter-steering and it's applications better than you just did! Excellent video Fast Eddie! I practice counter steering every time I go riding because of you! And I love the idea of the quick left push when stoping to put your left foot down... I'm going to add it to my riding technic. Thank you!
This and emergency braking were the first skills I practised on my return to biking. I noticed that I was often pulling with my left hand to turn right because of throttle control. It was just instinct and on reflection seemed advisable! Practise, heh? A really great vid. In my original riding times in the 1970’s counter-steering was never taught, I found it through experimentation. If only I had your instruction in those days but you weren’t around, right!! Thanks again, great stuff. Yours aye, Alan
Fast Eddie! Thank you so much for all of the content you put out. You’re saving lives and helping people out so much. You gave me faith in my front break and I now have so much more control and confidence on my bike. I also routinely do your drills in a parking lot near my house before rides and those rides always go much smoother. Thank you again and I hope life is treating you great!
Am only short in the video and so far you’re absolutely in line with my decades of experience ….with me I was told the “push the side your turning “ thing way after I was already just doing this without the intellectual knowledge that I was doing this. I was at first telling (whoever it was at the time) you must be high ,that makes no sense …..I immediately hopped on my 1982 Yamaha maxim ( that was less than 10 yrs old at the time , so yes I’m old ) and deliberately pushed the grip side I was Intending to turn towards and was shocked to realize this is more or less what I’ve always been doing …. I was usually doing a mix of a sort of “push pull” movement ,but mostly it started with the push … what I need to do (still to this day ) is practice more emergency and adjusting turn/lean while into it….ie : pushing counter steer further ( or less) after starting the lean…. Am going to be riding again this coming season after a long layoff and I’ll definitely be refreshing my skills (practicing) this as well as all other pertinent skills … all you novice unexperienced riders must think this is counterintuitive,and to a non rider it is unthinkable but it’s 100% true wether you realize it or not ,you’re counter steering every turn to some extent
I've been practicing countersteering today for 3 hours. Just Incredible how it works! I've gained confidence in cornering! It is such a great and free feeling for me as an older beginner!!! Thank you so much 😄💗
Keep doing it consciously it will make you a better safer rider. It’s also less tiring because you’re not holding on to tight and fighting the bars all the time. I started riding at 16 on a 50cc on my first ride I just couldn’t get it around a corner without almost slowing to a crawl. So I asked a guy who was pulled over having a smoke why I can’t go around corners,he explained what to do and the rest is history 30 years no crashes some close calls with other traffic but counter steering got me out of the situations every time.
@@geddstock Many thanks! It´s too cold now to ride & practice here in Europe. I´ll think of your support again in spring while counter stearing 😄! Merry Xmass!
Exactly, also saw that, LOL. That's conditioning in psychology, or maybe Fast Eddie's brain isn't involved any more, and we simply witness eye muscle memory. In that case, if he grabs a beer in front of him, he'll look aside. No, seriously, he's an ace.
I've been riding a 250 dual sport since the mid '70's. I took a break and bought a new Yamaha 250 dual sport. Most of my riding was on dirt/ gravel, trails, etc. I'm starting to do some riding on paved mountain roads. About a month ago I was in a sweeping left turn, about 35-45 mph and took a dump. I've never heard of counter steering. I used conventional steering, lost control and went over the handle bars. I pulled on the left grip and pushed on the right, from your video, that would explain why I went off the road to the RIGHT, and in an attempt to get back on the pavement, lost control. No major breaks. Near the end of this video, you explain exactly what happened to me. I can't wait to try this counter steering technique. You explained it very well. Jim
Sorry to hear about the fall fella. Left hand bend at that speed, you needed counter steering. Push left grip forward (I can’t begin to explain what a small movement it is) and the bike would have leaned and so turned left. When the desired lean is achieved you stop pushing the grip forward buy maintain a neutral pressure (not pushing forward, nor realising the pressure). When you have completed the bend, ease off the pressure and your bike will just stand up and continue straight. Bit long winded. Let me know what you think. ruclips.net/video/lzk8oyNO708/видео.html this link might help you a little.
Greg, thanks for the video and the riding tip is an excellent recommendation. I have found that the traditional "push" works great to initiate the bike's turn in and then I use the "pull" aspect to fine-tune the lean angle during more technical curves.
Most people say go practice. Viewers say, “Okay.” And go do some, not realizing how long it takes to learn a skill. Instead they just say, “That’s stupid.” And quit Without a time limit, practice is seldom long enough. You’re the first I’ve heard put a time limit on how long you wanted us to practice and that’s awesome.
I`m so glad I found Your channel, I`m 39 and dreaming of motorcycle since the start of the year! I got Suzuki VX800 this autumn. In march I`ll start my A license acquiring process. Here, in Latvia, we have pretty tough and long process - minimum 15 hrs of training in local auto/motto school (min 15 training sessions) before we get to do a examination at Latvia "Road traffic safety direction" to get the A license, that includes practice on streets. I`m determined to practice Your stuff after A license at least 3-4 days a week before I`ll be comfortable to go on longer rides.
This is very interesting I remember last year when I took my Msf course they were trying to explain this to everyone but I was confused cause instead of pulling like they said I had always been pulling in cause it’s just what my body naturally did.
This made so much sense! Thank you! I’m working on my class work before the riding portion of the motorcycle class. The explanation in the class videos just wouldnt click.
Crash videos are growing in popularity, and the single most important remedy that would have avoided the crash in most cases is proper knowledge, practice, and application of counter-steering. That's why this vid is so important! Please follow FE's advice, and help reduce crash statistic numbers in the future. To help control the throttle while steering with my right hand (whether pushing or pulling), I pick up one or two fingers off of the grip (index and ring fingers) and lightly rest the back of the finger(s) on the underside of the brake lever, which helps keep my wrist twist position steady while pushing (or pulling) my arm forward (or back). Resting one or two fingers on top of the brake lever can accomplish the same thing when covering the brake. I don't cover the brake all the time to avoid fatigue and also to keep my hand warm in cold weather. I took the MSF beginner's class back in 2007 before I got my first bike. Not only did they not discuss the information in this vid, they actually gave WRONG information, in particular, the instructor said to press down as if you're pushing on top of a table while getting up out of a chair. We did only parking lot speeds, so later, when going a little faster on the street, I pushed down on the right grip and the bike barely turned right, so I then pulled back (to turn the bars right) and leaned a little to the right while continuing to push down, and the bike still barely turned, which brought me dangerously close to the left edge of my lane, nearer to oncoming traffic and risking a crash. It's only when I then slowed down that my combination of wrong and conflicting inputs was sufficient to turn a little more tightly. That very evening, I got on the internet, ordered all the books by Lee Parks, Nick Ienatsch, Keith Code, and others, and started looking for vids and blogs about riding and cornering skills. The impression I got was that MSF was treating countersteering as an advanced racing technique rather than a fundamental principle for properly steering all motorcycles at all speeds with minimum effort. I am very disappointed about that MSF course, and I hope that they're doing a bit better nowadays.
Many variables go into a crash, there's often not just one variable. The MSF course is a beginner course, that is equivalent to an 8th grade education. Once you take higher level courses, you'll learn and understand higher level techniques. Try to get into the ones off my website motojitsu.com
This is the most important skill I've ever learnt (anyone can ride in a straight line). I rode a Peugeot Metropolis back from Gloucester a month or 2 ago and a heavy machine at higher speeds doesn't want to turn and I struggled to make gentle turns on the motorway. Since then I've been practising counter steering daily (LIGHT BULB MOMENT) and when I was riding on a motorway last week it was so easy to get the bike to do exactly what I wanted it to do. Thank you so much Fast Eddie.
Less than 3 minutes into this video and it clicked -- I spent an entire day on the course with the safety course instructor trying to explain this in a way that didn't sound like we were going to Wyle E Coyote ourselves off the track. "Push to establish the lean!"
It’s all about building up that muscle memory through practice, thanks Greg for so much insight. Ever since I’ve started watching (and practicing) your videos I enjoy my rides so much more while feeling much more in control and relaxed!
Watched the entire video, while thinking, "No, I'm pushing the handlebar down to bank the bike." So I followed Fast Eddie's advice and immediately went for a 25 mile practice drive, through some winding and curving back country roads. Drove straight at 25 MPH and consciously pushed the right handlebar FORWARD. Dammed if that bike didn't immediately curve to the right! It's counter-intuitive but it works just as FE explained in this video. Prior to this video it's possible that I was, at least partially, trying to push the handlebars down to bank the bike. I had a very good ride knowing and trusting this technique. Very helpful, detailed explanation. See? I did go practice! :-)
It's one of the most common misunderstandings riding motorcycles, particularly on sportier bikes as FE said in the video. It works, but it just works because when you push down, you're also pushing forward, because it's REALLY hard to just push down on the bars from a riding position where your behind the bars vs right over them. Once you start pushing forwards, it's amazing how much more nimble your bike feels!
Got to be the best explanation of countersteering I've come across yet. Even though I've experimented with it over and over again. This has cleared up a few little grey areas for me. Keep up the great work. Followed you from being a newbie, 7 years on, still learning. 👍🏼
So have you been leaning for 7 years? I'm only starting to learn and I'm nervous as all hell about counter steering , I'm afraid I won't be able to do it
Old guy here (70 years old). My current bike is a 2001 Hayabusa. I learned to countersteer back in 1968 (Honda 450). Back then, the concept was to push and pull with equal effort. In the 1970's, I did demonstrate counter-steering to friends by making a fist and just pushing on the inside handlebar, then relaxing to allow the bike (Norton 850) to straighten up on it's own, but other than this demo, I pushed and pulled with even effort. I don't know when only push on the inside bar started to be taught. The other issue not mentioned in your video is that at moderate speeds, many (or most) motorcycles have enough trail that once leaned, they tend to return to vertical (in bicycle | motorcycle dynamics, this is known as stable mode). If you relax on the handlebars, the bike will tend to straighten up, and some counter-steering torque needs to be applied to the handlebars to hold a lean angle. Another issue for some bikes is when braking while leaned, the side braking force on the front tire causes it to steer inwards, and requires additional counter-steering torque to hold a lean angle while braking. For racing motorcycles, at high speeds (100+ mph), the tendency transitions to hold a lean angle and not straighten up (for bicycle dynamics with infinitely thin tires, this is capsize mode, where a bike falls inwards at an extremely slow rate, for real tires, the rate of change in lean angle is so small that it it imperceptible, and the bike just holds the current lean angle), so a rider has to counter-steer (steer inwards) to straighten up with the same effort as it take to lean. Also at high speeds (due to angular momentum of the front wheel resisting any change in steering angle), the amount of force needed to change lean angle by counter-steering is large enough that push + pull is needed to remain tucked behind the fairing. It's similar to flying a plane, bank angle and speed determine cornering radius, and it's the same for a motorcycle, except the rider uses counter-steering to change bank | lean angle. I don't think about steering, only about adjusting lean angle and speed to take turns. I started riding an EUC (electric unicycle) back in August 2021. Lean control and turns are done by yawing (twisting) or tilting an EUC (camber effect) or a combination, depending on speed. It's still counter-steering: steer more inwards to reduce lean angle, steer less inwards to increase lean angle. Mostly yaw steering for slow speeds, and tilt steering for normal speeds. Tilting an EUC causes it to turn, the more you tilt it, the tighter the turn. At higher speed, a rider has to lean more than an EUC is tilted, at lower speed a rider leans less than an EUC is tilted. Example of a girl leaning much more than she tilts her EUC even at moderate speed (15 mph or so): ruclips.net/video/-hWMwK3Cfs0/видео.html
Counter steering is counterintuitive, my mind used to rebel against it. They taught it at the Learn to Ride class I attended at the Boise Harley Dealership and I (sort of) got comfortable with it. Additional practice has made me much more in tune, but more work is needed so I continue to practice. Thanks for the great video, you're doing good things for the motorcycle community!
I enjoin watching your videos. Since a few weeks I bought a motor (since I haven’t ride a bike for more than 10 years). I experienced a kind of unpleasant feeling in cornering. I started watching the videos and a lot became clear to me. As soon as I am back from summer holiday I will start practice and let you know my experience! Thanks from Holland!
Did my first practicing today. Amazing! The funny thing is, that I discovered that I kind of already did some counter steering now and then (these were the moments that good cornering succeed) in my unconsciousness. Now I am practicing and being more consciously by how I am cornering, I feel a lot more confident. A lot of practicing to go before it will be my second nature on the bike but it already helps a lot. Great!
Thanks for the great explanation..ive been ridding for 45+ years & never rally noticed it before but by instinct i dont push right to got right i naturally pull left bike leans right turns right .or pull right to go left .now I have an name for what i was doing all along ..Thanks again
Is this not what everyone did when riding bicycles? This was so ingrained, I didn't even know I was doing it when I was young and started getting confused by these types of videos. Thanks for making this!
If you are intentional about using left or right side you will be surprised by the amount of residual tension you have in the other side arm. Practicing this really was the key using the handgrips as controls and not to support your weight. Realized this in Total Control, you can't flick it over in a tight figure 8 if the other side is creating resistance you aren't even aware of.
Thank goodness! I am a "puller" rather than a "pusher" for counter steering. I've purchased your books and watch as many of your videos as I can. My problem is, most of this stuff comes naturally (good and bad, lol) and I had to consciously watch myself counter steer to learn that I've been pulling on the bar, rather than pushing. I've been trying to reteach myself to push, now I know that I don't have to "relearn" this technique since I can push or pull!!!! Fast Eddy buddy....he saves the day!
I was riding on an elevated road once in the Netherlands, called a dyke (Google: "dyke Netherlands"). Which basically are curvy open corner roads for miles. The roads on top of them are about 12 feet wide and this dyke was about 20 ft elevated. I came across another motorcycle rider and waved but this strong gush of wind from the left pushed me to the right with 3 ft of road to spare. I knew I could expect some wind, but this was exceptionally strong. At that moment, if the wind blows me in the grass right next to the road I would crash and go steep down the twenty foot dyke. Because of your countersteering video you made a while ago I practiced pushing and also pulling to turn quickly on my bike, therefore I just responded automatically pulling on the right, because my other hand was still waving. That saved me from going down a steep countryside road and crashing. This video reminded me of how much I've learned and how much more experienced I got by practicing things on my own bike because you motivated me. So thanks Greg! :)
Finished my motorcycle class last week and have been confused on this ever since. After watching this I’ve got it. They need to add this video to the class. Well done!!
I studied riding for months without riding. First time I road over 30mph I tried the counter steering... every curve in the road had me laughing out loud with surprise and wonder at how magical the technique is... You can’t imagine how effective it is... you gotta do it.
Yes and for those who don't understand it or think they don't even use it, it always happens, the degree of which you're conscious of it is the only thing that changes.
@@MotoJitsu Once conscious of it's effectiveness, my use of it has increased exponentially. I'm currently finding the balance between neutral (centered) body position in "normal" curves that require very little deliberate counter steering, and more extreme curves at higher speed that require more assertive body positioning plus deliberate counter steering. Super fun. Of course, quick swerving is much faster with this counter intuitive but super effective handlebar input. Tried CS on my mountain bike and the effect seems to engage waay faster. Narrower tires? Smaller contact patch? Whatever it is, it just works.
You're absolutely correct. What still blows my mind is the number of people who comment on YT videos about countersteering who swear that they do not and never have used countersteering while riding a motorcycle.
Hello, I discovered a few weeks ago your channel. Very interesting and instructive. Bought me a Kawasaki Z900RS, after 20 years of almost not driving anymore. Since I’ve watched your channel, I’ve been practicing on parking lots more than I have ever done before. I have translated your belt programm to metric measures (Belgium, Europe you see) and it’s great fun. Thanks a lot.
Thanks so much for this video! I started driving school, and I wasn't getting a "yes, the wheel WILL eventually change the direction", I was wondering how on earth it should be STAYING turned into the opposite direction, while it shouldn't. Your explanation rocks!
I've ever seen the best only video on counter steering explanation. Actually I was in confusion. Now It's clear. I appreciate you... Thanks & let me be your fan. Reply me.
Thanks for explaining this; I couldn't understand why turning right (with a right-mounted sidecar) would lift the sidecar. When I rode, years ago, I never learned countersteering (I came from a bicycling background, where I "steered" by leaning - I never gave the handlebars any input, and hadn't even considered turning them the "wrong" way.) Anyway, now I see that steering a sidecar towards the sidecar, which doesn't allow for leaning, is in essence "countersteering.
I read an article in Cycle magazine about how racers were able to make such fast turns. It was about counter steering so I tried it and it worked. This was back in the early '80s when I was riding a '73 Honda 750.
I like the concept of controlling both left and right turns with the left handlebar. Takes the confusion out of it and the risk of stabbing the go cable
As a MSF Rider Coach, I find that the push/pull technique works well if the student is nervous and tenses up. Typically, when they get tense, the outside arm will push as much as the inside arm.
Many variables, I've seen it where just explaining this the rider gets it or sometimes pulling left to go right the lightbulb comes on. Or like you said, both.
I finalny decided to do full unrestricted motorcycle licence. I riding Lexmoto Adrenaline 125 with L-Plates on Provisional licence (UK) for last 16 monts. I love my little pony xD and dont need a bigger bike for now ( I am limited by size of my storidge) just want to try someting new. My firstt 2h are bookt for 21th of December. TANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING YOU DO. Ride safe!
Yes, some people think body steering as counter steering. They even protest when I yank the steering hard to the opposite direction of the turn. They don't realize that quick turn need a very sudden steering to the opposite direction on most motorcycle, especially the one with long fork offset
Darn! first thing coming to my MInd, when you mentioned "Not down"! was Body Position, angle in Elbows, range of motion, Lion King... Wrote it down, to comment on it for addition…. then you said it yourself… Wasn't the only time throughout this video! :-P And yes: Accidental Discharge is a real thing! You as former Marine, do know for sure! Great advice as always! And a bit of a new concept on the Lecture, good! Rubberside down:-)
Great tip for a right hander Greg! I’ll work on pulling with left hand entering the right hand turn, especially on a downhill. Now that I think about it, this could have helped in some exercises at the Total Control Clinic.
I've always been impressed at how quickly a pro racer (Moto GP for example) can adjust their lines when another rider crashes in front of them. I know that I need to practice to be just as good at instant zero-thought reflex reaction in traffic where there is more unpredictability than on a race track. As always, thanks for your videos.
Fast Eddie, I watch listen and practice what I have seen in your videos every time I ride, I can hear you in my head at times as I am practicing. thanks for all you are doing for the moto community.
Yep 👍 Very good video, and explanation, so importent. Just turn the bike to the other direction, then the bike automatic leans to the correct side, then do the turn like you normally would. You can turn sharp and quickly this way, and if you don't learn it, you WILL get in a acendent in time.
Its pouring rain up here in the PNW but you've motivated the shit out of me.we used to have a saying in the army "if it ain't rain, your not really training". Time to go train.
I'm 100% with you on everything but the super slow movement. I've never noticed that effect, but I'll give you benefit of the doubt on that one until the weather clears so I can try. Thanks for another great video.
The skill to push AND pull is important for the track in particular but also for the street if you like to hang/knee drag. When you exit the corner and straighten the bike the outside arm should still be loose, ergo pull the handle bar with inside arm and to counter steer and voila! Smooth riding
I'm a motorcycle instructor who makes RUclips videos, there's a lot of RUclipsrs who ride motorcycles, big difference :) MotoJitsu.com for my app, books, merch, affiliate links, discounts, etc.
Thanks Greg! Would not know how elso to steer, it's so much fun, but what I find soooo fantastic at counter steering is that, in het middle of the curve, you have total controle to tighten or widen your turn, whenevere, wherever (I sound like Shakira now, lol). When you miscalculated a curve, too wide or too tight, simply push or pull at bit more to correct. Personally, to widen inside the curve, I find push + pull easier. Find pulling inside the curve difficult. But, as Motojitsu master says, practice, practice, practice. Don't know which nutcase originally decided to deliberately steer in the wrong direction, and then steadfast promoted that, but he deserved a Nobel Prize. Can't do without.
SHUT UP & PRACTICE! You can ask me questions all day long BUT unless you go and experiment, you're missing the point.
SAY WHAAAAT? ☺️☺️
OK...will go out and practice this
If you ever come to the right coast let us know I'm in E. Tn. I've rode The Dragon it's alot to take in I'd ride with you but not knuckle heads like max
Great video. Burgman 650 driver here. Let them know it makes no difference if you're on a motorcycle, scooter, or even a bicycle these riles still apply!
Bro love u so much thanks so much for explanation and ur super easy to understand lectures
If you only knew how much you do for bikers new and old?
A lot! ...You are one of the best. If only I was qualified I'd wear one of your shirts. I've been riding for many years but learn something whenever I catch one of your training videos. I started out on an old Triumph, no gear, no bike safety stuff. Most of us just didn't wear or could afford. Gives me shivers when I think about that now. Waiting for Spring and my new GS. Then I'll follow your "shut up and practice" and the gear you use. We don't agree all the time but you're the boss.
Oh boy if you would only knew how much you are doing for moto community. ❤
A lot, I hope :)
Yeah true!
That’s why I love watching his videos 👍🏼🏍🇦🇺
@@MotoJitsu hey Eddie, honestly! I am a new rider and you have helped me more than you know!
can the bike go out under me if i push foward to fast?
True that
This has to be one of, if not the best explanation of counter steering I have seen - he actually explains that the "push" is only to get the lean, then stop pushing and let the bike take itself around the corner. Too many other vids neglect to mention the push is only for a fraction of a second. Well done that man!
Yes :)
MotoJitsu.com for my new app, books, merch, etc.
Yah some video call it turn. So confused as well. Bike doesn't have car steering wheel. It has handle bar for pushing not turning.
MotoJitsu literally taught me how to ride a bike from zero experience to making u-turns and doing fast cornering comfortably in just a couple of months with your countersteering and trail braking videos. I've seen a few other training videos out there but you are the most straightforward and easiest to understand so far. Hands down you're the best motorcycle instructor on youtube!
Awesome to hear! :)
Holy shit dude. I've been riding for 25 years. I'm *very* comfortable with countersteering. But I never really paid a lot of attention to it, my body just did what it did.
Paying attention to it as a result has showed me why I turn better to the right. So much better. I've been struggling with this problem for years and never figured it out. I'll turn right and scrape pegs super comfortably, but to the left I just never manage to be comfortable.
Turns out, I steer entirely with my right hand, and when I'm turning right and pushing right, I'm also rolling off the throttle and often trailing the front brake, so interrupting the throttle isn't an issue. But when I turn left, I'm pulling on the right grip and this tends to pull the throttle open a little more, making the bike want to stand up a little bit.
I'd never have figured this out without spending some time just being conscious of how I turn, so thanks for the encouragement to go *think* about what I'm doing on autopilot!
That was an absolute education. Cornering is scary for an (old) beginner.
Time for much PRACTICE. Now I know WHAT to practice.
Concise and excellent. Heed watchers!!!
:)
I am a brand new rider...just look the MSF beginner class last weekend. This is the BEST explanation of counter steering I have ever heard! Thank you!
Glad it helped!
Hey man how has your journey been, I'm just at your stage now and honestly I'm super nervous about this counter steering part
Best explanation of this that I've seen on RUclips. Most people miss the fact that the steering corrects and ends up pointing the 'right' way once you're established in the turn.
YES!
Exactly! Most of them think that the counter steering ends at the moment of push.
Grimbeard This is very important and not explained in most counter steering videos. It confused me greatly why my front wheel was pointing in the “correct” direction even though I was practicing “counter steering”. Thought I was doing something wrong and would push again causing the bike to not corner smoothly. Thanks FE. Now time to apply this realization and practice in the car park.
I started riding again (after 30 years) 12 years ago, commuting, so I got a LOT of kms in little time (first bike about 65000 in less than 3 years), now I'm retired but still ride every day unless there's ice on the road. All I can say is 12 years and some 150000 kms later, I can still learn from your video's!
of course! :) more courses, more books to read, more practice time
MotoJitsu.com for my new app, books, merch, affiliate links to Revzilla, etc.
I don't think I could ride without counter steering, it's a natural action after 44yrs of off and on road riding, thanks for instruction, always learning something new.
I have been riding 25 years and with this lock down I've been watching your videos and I've learned more in a few days than 25 years esp your counter steering and trail braking techniques, my bike went in for a clutch just before lock down and they still have it so i went out on my bicycle and tried counter steering totally amazing how easy it is I even got both pedals down lol thank you so much you are saving lives
God bless you
Great to hear!
To me, this was the best counter steering video of all. You're the only one that ever said pull with opposite hand instead of everyone emphasizing pushing which ALWAYS confused the heck out of me, even if I've supposedly been doing it my entire life.
I pull, which pulls me up for the set up before the opposite lean.
Thank you for coloring this in with crayon for me. First time I understood it practically in over 30 years
Thanks! You're welcome! :)
Again, I think I've wrote this before, your (@motojitsu) videos are extremely explanatory and the best source of information on RUclips for all level of riders, but especially for beginner riders! 👌
I've watched dozens and dozens of videos (literally!) and everyone explains motorcycle cornering wrong!
They give you the (wrong!) perception that a motorcycle turns by use of counter steering, instead of explaining that counter steering is used to INITIATE THE TURN ONLY(!!!) and then you "undo" the counter steering (or let the bike undo it by means of the "caster angle") and steer the bike all the way into the turn. BIG DIFFERENCE!!🤬
You did this in the very few seconds of the explanation! It was a AHA moment for me! 👊
What I've noticed is that everyone explains motorcycle cornering from an experienced rider perspective with years and years of riding, that have totally forgotten what it is like to be a beginner rider, that doesn't know the basics. And then go about explaining things from that perspective of an experienced rider!
Thanks for the video. Keep it up! 😁✌
thanks!
Thanks for the great tip about coming to a stop light and doing a last second push with the left hand to load the bike on to a standing left foot. So simple yet so frustrating as here in the UK there's no way at the moment to go out and practice as temps are close to zero a lot of the day and the roads are lethal. Its clocked however in my brain and joins all those other nuggets I've picked up from you recently. You are an inspiration mate particularly as I have a new GS 1250 and you make it all look so easy on yours.....
I'm new to riding; I'm middle-aged; everything I had experienced in my life so far told me this was nonsense. I listened; I experienced it; I practiced...it works. When you first do it you feel like Gandalf defying the laws of physics...perhaps I need to learn a little more about physics. Thank you! It took me about six hours to stop grinning after trying this.
You're welcome!
Watched a lot of videos on this subject, your explanation in the first 3 minutes.... and I got it. Thx u.
Not from the US but your channel has been very helpful on my journey on finally obtaining my bike license 2 days ago. Got to experience counter-steering when our instructor took us on high speed road lessons, it was so much easier to turn in a corner. Not counter steering just felt like you were fighting the bike. Your emergency braking and throttle control videos really helped me out as well throughout the course.
8:35 This. I thought I was weird, I mainly steer with my left hand too.
Thanks for the videos. I’m getting back into riding after 20 years and you have helped me so much.
Due to COVID I'm still waiting to take my DAS course (UK) but I'm learning and dreaming watching your stuff, it's great cheers
thanks! :) SHARE IT
This was very helpful! A few weeks ago, a driver cut into my lane as I was exiting a multiple lane roundabout on a curve. I had to turn fast to avoid him. It was raining and my bike slipped on the partition road paint and I fell off and skidded across the road. Since then, I had lost all my confidence with counter steering! Whereas in the past, it just came naturally to me, afterwards I was doubting myself. I was completely overthinking it and getting myself mixed up, when it really is very simple once you get a feel for it. This video has put into words what I was dong by instinct before the crash and I have been able to get back my steering confidence. Thank-you!
You’re welcome!
This makes so much more sense than so many versions of this concept! And totally LOVE the add of using your left hand to steer!!!
:) glad it helped
GREAT VIDEO! I've been riding for years and I learned so much. Never understood counter steering because it just worked.
why does this video not have 1M views? This is one of the most important lessons
Share it!
100% correct in practice! Thank you! I've been practicing this the entire time since completing the Beginners Rider Course. However, Counter Steering was NOT taught at the BRC.
I have a 7 mile stretch from my house to town which is a medium winding mountain road. I started practicing one handed counter steering that really verified the absolute necessity of counter steering. Now that I 'physically' and consciously practice this one handed counter steering technique in more tighter curves it has really built a lot of confidence. Thank you mister!
I just started watching your videos on a recommendation from MC Rider. I found this video to be very interesting but I wanted to make a couple of comments and a request of sorts. I started riding over 50 years ago and was self taught so I am sure I have some bad habits. At first I had no idea about counter steering but I think an article by Kevin Cameron made me aware of what I was doing without being aware of it. I have lived in a lot of locales with twisty mountainous roads so that I have kind of developed my own cornering techniques.
I find that entering a turn I push on the handlebar on the side of the direction I want to go, classic counter steering. I only do it entering the turn. I maintain my turning through a combination of leaning, weighting the bike by pressure on the inside peg or seat and subtle throttle control. Exiting the the turn I pull on the side of the handle bar on the side of the direction I want to go in conjunction with the application of the needed amount of throttle. I don't generally like to ride with groups but when I do I don't see anyone else employing the techniques. I would like to see you do a video discussing these techniques if appropriate. I may be doing things that are all wrong but they work for me.
I have only watched a handful of your videos but I like what I have seen. You go deeply into the basics where most of what I have seen only addressed the general concepts. I have sent a link to my daughter who is a fairly new rider who has told me she is having some issues mainly with slow speed and U turns. I believe your tutorials will be a big help for her. Your comment of keeping your foot off the rear brake until you become more proficient is invaluable. She was having trouble as she was taught to use the throttle and the brake. I think this is too much for a new rider and even for me with some of the new bikes being leaned out so much are troublesome at low speeds not being able to maintain a constant rpm level.
Anyway, thanks for all you do, I hope you see this as this video was done so long ago.
Thanks for watching, MCrider is a good guy. Yes, counter steering is just to get the bike to lean, you don’t that the entire turn. The front tire does turn itself into the turn, it’s called the caster effect of trail if you want to look it up. I recommend reading all the books I encourage all riders to read...I just posted it a few weeks ago and get into some high level courses like Total Control Advanced Riding Clinic:) totalcontroltraining.net
Do you have any idea how many videos I had to watch to find out that you only countersteer until you have the correct lean, then let the steering correct itself? Nobody else I've watched says this. For all I knew before, you were supposed to hold the countersteer through the corner. It's such a simple, yet absolutely essential piece of information that so many other 'tutorials' don't cover. As someone who is beginning their riding journey with the MSF course in just under a month, THANK YOU. Obviously I'll be speaking to the instructors and bombarding them with questions when the time comes, but I'm doing what I can to go into the course as well-informed as possible.
Oh, and obviously practicing once I get my bike. Lots of relatively low-traffic roads with lazy curves is one advantage of living in a rural area. I'll definitely be taking them at the recommended speed for a good while. I also think the local church parking lot and I will become the best of friends.
you're welcome!
Finally someone actually tells you not to leave the bars turned. Every video I watch makes you think you leave it turned, also they try saying their counter steering while clearly pushing left and going right (turning right to go right) and calling it counter steering
No idea...I don't watch other people's videos. I'm a motorcycle instructor who makes videos...there's a lot of RUclipsrs who ride motorcycles, big difference.
I haven't seen anyone explaining counter-steering and it's applications better than you just did! Excellent video Fast Eddie! I practice counter steering every time I go riding because of you! And I love the idea of the quick left push when stoping to put your left foot down... I'm going to add it to my riding technic. Thank you!
Thanks
This and emergency braking were the first skills I practised on my return to biking. I noticed that I was often pulling with my left hand to turn right because of throttle control. It was just instinct and on reflection seemed advisable! Practise, heh? A really great vid. In my original riding times in the 1970’s counter-steering was never taught, I found it through experimentation. If only I had your instruction in those days but you weren’t around, right!! Thanks again, great stuff. Yours aye, Alan
Fast Eddie! Thank you so much for all of the content you put out. You’re saving lives and helping people out so much. You gave me faith in my front break and I now have so much more control and confidence on my bike. I also routinely do your drills in a parking lot near my house before rides and those rides always go much smoother. Thank you again and I hope life is treating you great!
Ed, your videos are so well explanatory that you have to be saving lives . Total , credit to you mate
thanks!!
If you haven't already, check out MotoJitsu.com for my new app, books, merch, etc.
Am only short in the video and so far you’re absolutely in line with my decades of experience ….with me I was told the “push the side your turning “ thing way after I was already just doing this without the intellectual knowledge that I was doing this. I was at first telling (whoever it was at the time) you must be high ,that makes no sense …..I immediately hopped on my 1982 Yamaha maxim ( that was less than 10 yrs old at the time , so yes I’m old ) and deliberately pushed the grip side I was Intending to turn towards and was shocked to realize this is more or less what I’ve always been doing …. I was usually doing a mix of a sort of “push pull” movement ,but mostly it started with the push … what I need to do (still to this day ) is practice more emergency and adjusting turn/lean while into it….ie : pushing counter steer further ( or less) after starting the lean…. Am going to be riding again this coming season after a long layoff and I’ll definitely be refreshing my skills (practicing) this as well as all other pertinent skills … all you novice unexperienced riders must think this is counterintuitive,and to a non rider it is unthinkable but it’s 100% true wether you realize it or not ,you’re counter steering every turn to some extent
Fast Eddie as wise as always, your videos reinforce practicing, that’s a fact! 💪🏼
I've been practicing countersteering today for 3 hours. Just Incredible how it works! I've gained confidence in cornering! It is such a great and free feeling for me as an older beginner!!! Thank you so much 😄💗
yes!
Keep doing it consciously it will make you a better safer rider.
It’s also less tiring because you’re not holding on to tight and fighting the bars all the time.
I started riding at 16 on a 50cc on my first ride I just couldn’t get it around a corner without almost slowing to a crawl.
So I asked a guy who was pulled over having a smoke why I can’t go around corners,he explained what to do and the rest is history
30 years no crashes some close calls with other traffic but counter steering got me out of the situations every time.
@@geddstock Many thanks! It´s too cold now to ride & practice here in Europe. I´ll think of your support again in spring while counter stearing 😄! Merry Xmass!
:-)
Every time when it’s explained,look at Fast Ed’s eyes and head
Look where you want to go!
Pleasure watching :-)
Noticed the same thing,you beat me to the comment,that’s proper mussel and reaction memory!
It's psycho-motor skills.
It has become an automatism to him.
It shows he practices what he preaches.
Exactly, also saw that, LOL. That's conditioning in psychology, or maybe Fast Eddie's brain isn't involved any more, and we simply witness eye muscle memory. In that case, if he grabs a beer in front of him, he'll look aside. No, seriously, he's an ace.
I never noticed!
I've been riding a 250 dual sport since the mid '70's. I took a break and bought a new Yamaha 250 dual sport. Most of my riding was on dirt/ gravel, trails, etc. I'm starting to do some riding on paved mountain roads. About a month ago I was in a sweeping left turn, about 35-45 mph and took a dump. I've never heard of counter steering. I used conventional steering, lost control and went over the handle bars. I pulled on the left grip and pushed on the right, from your video, that would explain why I went off the road to the RIGHT, and in an attempt to get back on the pavement, lost control. No major breaks. Near the end of this video, you explain exactly what happened to me. I can't wait to try this counter steering technique. You explained it very well.
Jim
Sorry to hear about the fall fella. Left hand bend at that speed, you needed counter steering. Push left grip forward (I can’t begin to explain what a small movement it is) and the bike would have leaned and so turned left. When the desired lean is achieved you stop pushing the grip forward buy maintain a neutral pressure (not pushing forward, nor realising the pressure). When you have completed the bend, ease off the pressure and your bike will just stand up and continue straight. Bit long winded. Let me know what you think.
ruclips.net/video/lzk8oyNO708/видео.html this link might help you a little.
Greg, thanks for the video and the riding tip is an excellent recommendation. I have found that the traditional "push" works great to initiate the bike's turn in and then I use the "pull" aspect to fine-tune the lean angle during more technical curves.
Thank you!
Most people say go practice.
Viewers say, “Okay.” And go do some, not realizing how long it takes to learn a skill. Instead they just say, “That’s stupid.” And quit
Without a time limit, practice is seldom long enough.
You’re the first I’ve heard put a time limit on how long you wanted us to practice and that’s awesome.
thanks :)
MotoJitsu.com for my new app, books, merch, etc.
I`m so glad I found Your channel, I`m 39 and dreaming of motorcycle since the start of the year! I got Suzuki VX800 this autumn. In march I`ll start my A license acquiring process. Here, in Latvia, we have pretty tough and long process - minimum 15 hrs of training in local auto/motto school (min 15 training sessions) before we get to do a examination at Latvia "Road traffic safety direction" to get the A license, that includes practice on streets. I`m determined to practice Your stuff after A license at least 3-4 days a week before I`ll be comfortable to go on longer rides.
This is very interesting I remember last year when I took my Msf course they were trying to explain this to everyone but I was confused cause instead of pulling like they said I had always been pulling in cause it’s just what my body naturally did.
This made so much sense! Thank you! I’m working on my class work before the riding portion of the motorcycle class. The explanation in the class videos just wouldnt click.
Great vid again FE. Learned so much from you in your vid series🤟
Awesome, thank you!
Crash videos are growing in popularity, and the single most important remedy that would have avoided the crash in most cases is proper knowledge, practice, and application of counter-steering. That's why this vid is so important! Please follow FE's advice, and help reduce crash statistic numbers in the future.
To help control the throttle while steering with my right hand (whether pushing or pulling), I pick up one or two fingers off of the grip (index and ring fingers) and lightly rest the back of the finger(s) on the underside of the brake lever, which helps keep my wrist twist position steady while pushing (or pulling) my arm forward (or back). Resting one or two fingers on top of the brake lever can accomplish the same thing when covering the brake. I don't cover the brake all the time to avoid fatigue and also to keep my hand warm in cold weather.
I took the MSF beginner's class back in 2007 before I got my first bike. Not only did they not discuss the information in this vid, they actually gave WRONG information, in particular, the instructor said to press down as if you're pushing on top of a table while getting up out of a chair. We did only parking lot speeds, so later, when going a little faster on the street, I pushed down on the right grip and the bike barely turned right, so I then pulled back (to turn the bars right) and leaned a little to the right while continuing to push down, and the bike still barely turned, which brought me dangerously close to the left edge of my lane, nearer to oncoming traffic and risking a crash. It's only when I then slowed down that my combination of wrong and conflicting inputs was sufficient to turn a little more tightly. That very evening, I got on the internet, ordered all the books by Lee Parks, Nick Ienatsch, Keith Code, and others, and started looking for vids and blogs about riding and cornering skills. The impression I got was that MSF was treating countersteering as an advanced racing technique rather than a fundamental principle for properly steering all motorcycles at all speeds with minimum effort. I am very disappointed about that MSF course, and I hope that they're doing a bit better nowadays.
Many variables go into a crash, there's often not just one variable. The MSF course is a beginner course, that is equivalent to an 8th grade education. Once you take higher level courses, you'll learn and understand higher level techniques. Try to get into the ones off my website motojitsu.com
Thank 's Greg, want to go practice now but it's damn cold in Belgium :-( (freezing)
Dang!
Nah! Greetings from Holland ✌🏻
Still a lot of great days To ride these weeks, went yesterday to Antwerpen from Eindhoven, just use a lot of layers of clothing :)
This is the most important skill I've ever learnt (anyone can ride in a straight line). I rode a Peugeot Metropolis back from Gloucester a month or 2 ago and a heavy machine at higher speeds doesn't want to turn and I struggled to make gentle turns on the motorway. Since then I've been practising counter steering daily (LIGHT BULB MOMENT) and when I was riding on a motorway last week it was so easy to get the bike to do exactly what I wanted it to do. Thank you so much Fast Eddie.
:) you're welcome!
Go out he says ... it's winter! Have to wait till next season
Dang...bicycle?
@@MotoJitsu it is winter, with snow and ice :) and salt on the road
Guess not then lol
I was out today.. 40 degrees (no ice/snow... yay)
California was made for motorcycle riders. 70° today.
Less than 3 minutes into this video and it clicked -- I spent an entire day on the course with the safety course instructor trying to explain this in a way that didn't sound like we were going to Wyle E Coyote ourselves off the track. "Push to establish the lean!"
:)
It’s all about building up that muscle memory through practice, thanks Greg for so much insight. Ever since I’ve started watching (and practicing) your videos I enjoy my rides so much more while feeling much more in control and relaxed!
Watched the entire video, while thinking, "No, I'm pushing the handlebar down to bank the bike." So I followed Fast Eddie's advice and immediately went for a 25 mile practice drive, through some winding and curving back country roads. Drove straight at 25 MPH and consciously pushed the right handlebar FORWARD. Dammed if that bike didn't immediately curve to the right! It's counter-intuitive but it works just as FE explained in this video. Prior to this video it's possible that I was, at least partially, trying to push the handlebars down to bank the bike. I had a very good ride knowing and trusting this technique. Very helpful, detailed explanation. See? I did go practice! :-)
I'm glad you got to put the video into your direct experience Greg.
It's one of the most common misunderstandings riding motorcycles, particularly on sportier bikes as FE said in the video. It works, but it just works because when you push down, you're also pushing forward, because it's REALLY hard to just push down on the bars from a riding position where your behind the bars vs right over them.
Once you start pushing forwards, it's amazing how much more nimble your bike feels!
This video is an absolute gem. Really can see the experience behind that explanation. Thanks a million for this👏
Got to be the best explanation of countersteering I've come across yet. Even though I've experimented with it over and over again. This has cleared up a few little grey areas for me.
Keep up the great work. Followed you from being a newbie, 7 years on, still learning. 👍🏼
So have you been leaning for 7 years? I'm only starting to learn and I'm nervous as all hell about counter steering , I'm afraid I won't be able to do it
Old guy here (70 years old). My current bike is a 2001 Hayabusa. I learned to countersteer back in 1968 (Honda 450). Back then, the concept was to push and pull with equal effort. In the 1970's, I did demonstrate counter-steering to friends by making a fist and just pushing on the inside handlebar, then relaxing to allow the bike (Norton 850) to straighten up on it's own, but other than this demo, I pushed and pulled with even effort. I don't know when only push on the inside bar started to be taught. The other issue not mentioned in your video is that at moderate speeds, many (or most) motorcycles have enough trail that once leaned, they tend to return to vertical (in bicycle | motorcycle dynamics, this is known as stable mode). If you relax on the handlebars, the bike will tend to straighten up, and some counter-steering torque needs to be applied to the handlebars to hold a lean angle. Another issue for some bikes is when braking while leaned, the side braking force on the front tire causes it to steer inwards, and requires additional counter-steering torque to hold a lean angle while braking. For racing motorcycles, at high speeds (100+ mph), the tendency transitions to hold a lean angle and not straighten up (for bicycle dynamics with infinitely thin tires, this is capsize mode, where a bike falls inwards at an extremely slow rate, for real tires, the rate of change in lean angle is so small that it it imperceptible, and the bike just holds the current lean angle), so a rider has to counter-steer (steer inwards) to straighten up with the same effort as it take to lean. Also at high speeds (due to angular momentum of the front wheel resisting any change in steering angle), the amount of force needed to change lean angle by counter-steering is large enough that push + pull is needed to remain tucked behind the fairing.
It's similar to flying a plane, bank angle and speed determine cornering radius, and it's the same for a motorcycle, except the rider uses counter-steering to change bank | lean angle. I don't think about steering, only about adjusting lean angle and speed to take turns.
I started riding an EUC (electric unicycle) back in August 2021. Lean control and turns are done by yawing (twisting) or tilting an EUC (camber effect) or a combination, depending on speed. It's still counter-steering: steer more inwards to reduce lean angle, steer less inwards to increase lean angle. Mostly yaw steering for slow speeds, and tilt steering for normal speeds. Tilting an EUC causes it to turn, the more you tilt it, the tighter the turn. At higher speed, a rider has to lean more than an EUC is tilted, at lower speed a rider leans less than an EUC is tilted. Example of a girl leaning much more than she tilts her EUC even at moderate speed (15 mph or so): ruclips.net/video/-hWMwK3Cfs0/видео.html
Counter steering is counterintuitive, my mind used to rebel against it. They taught it at the Learn to Ride class I attended at the Boise Harley Dealership and I (sort of) got comfortable with it. Additional practice has made me much more in tune, but more work is needed so I continue to practice. Thanks for the great video, you're doing good things for the motorcycle community!
Glad to help :)
I enjoin watching your videos. Since a few weeks I bought a motor (since I haven’t ride a bike for more than 10 years). I experienced a kind of unpleasant feeling in cornering. I started watching the videos and a lot became clear to me. As soon as I am back from summer holiday I will start practice and let you know my experience! Thanks from Holland!
You're very welcome!
Did my first practicing today. Amazing! The funny thing is, that I discovered that I kind of already did some counter steering now and then (these were the moments that good cornering succeed) in my unconsciousness. Now I am practicing and being more consciously by how I am cornering, I feel a lot more confident. A lot of practicing to go before it will be my second nature on the bike but it already helps a lot. Great!
Thanks for the great explanation..ive been ridding for 45+ years & never rally noticed it before but by instinct i dont push right to got right i naturally pull left bike leans right turns right .or pull right to go left .now I have an name for what i was doing all along ..Thanks again
You're welcome! Get into some high level courses!! MotoJitsu.com/courses
Is this not what everyone did when riding bicycles? This was so ingrained, I didn't even know I was doing it when I was young and started getting confused by these types of videos. Thanks for making this!
If you are intentional about using left or right side you will be surprised by the amount of residual tension you have in the other side arm. Practicing this really was the key using the handgrips as controls and not to support your weight. Realized this in Total Control, you can't flick it over in a tight figure 8 if the other side is creating resistance you aren't even aware of.
Very true.
Thank goodness! I am a "puller" rather than a "pusher" for counter steering. I've purchased your books and watch as many of your videos as I can. My problem is, most of this stuff comes naturally (good and bad, lol) and I had to consciously watch myself counter steer to learn that I've been pulling on the bar, rather than pushing. I've been trying to reteach myself to push, now I know that I don't have to "relearn" this technique since I can push or pull!!!! Fast Eddy buddy....he saves the day!
whichever works best but learn everything :)
I was riding on an elevated road once in the Netherlands, called a dyke (Google: "dyke Netherlands"). Which basically are curvy open corner roads for miles. The roads on top of them are about 12 feet wide and this dyke was about 20 ft elevated.
I came across another motorcycle rider and waved but this strong gush of wind from the left pushed me to the right with 3 ft of road to spare. I knew I could expect some wind, but this was exceptionally strong. At that moment, if the wind blows me in the grass right next to the road I would crash and go steep down the twenty foot dyke.
Because of your countersteering video you made a while ago I practiced pushing and also pulling to turn quickly on my bike, therefore I just responded automatically pulling on the right, because my other hand was still waving. That saved me from going down a steep countryside road and crashing.
This video reminded me of how much I've learned and how much more experienced I got by practicing things on my own bike because you motivated me. So thanks Greg! :)
Exactly! That's why it's so beneficial to learn & understand & practice, because you never know.
Finished my motorcycle class last week and have been confused on this ever since. After watching this I’ve got it. They need to add this video to the class. Well done!!
You have saved my life more than my helmet, jacket, gloves, and boots all combined. Thank you! Sir, the content you put online for free is golden!!
I studied riding for months without riding. First time I road over 30mph I tried the counter steering... every curve in the road had me laughing out loud with surprise and wonder at how magical the technique is... You can’t imagine how effective it is... you gotta do it.
Yes and for those who don't understand it or think they don't even use it, it always happens, the degree of which you're conscious of it is the only thing that changes.
@@MotoJitsu Once conscious of it's effectiveness, my use of it has increased exponentially.
I'm currently finding the balance between neutral (centered) body position in "normal" curves that require very little deliberate counter steering,
and more extreme curves at higher speed that require more assertive body positioning plus deliberate counter steering. Super fun.
Of course, quick swerving is much faster with this counter intuitive but super effective handlebar input.
Tried CS on my mountain bike and the effect seems to engage waay faster. Narrower tires? Smaller contact patch? Whatever it is, it just works.
Tires, weight of a bicycles, etc.
You're absolutely correct. What still blows my mind is the number of people who comment on YT videos about countersteering who swear that they do not and never have used countersteering while riding a motorcycle.
Hello, I discovered a few weeks ago your channel. Very interesting and instructive. Bought me a Kawasaki Z900RS, after 20 years of almost not driving anymore. Since I’ve watched your channel, I’ve been practicing on parking lots more than I have ever done before. I have translated your belt programm to metric measures (Belgium, Europe you see) and it’s great fun. Thanks a lot.
Awesome! :) My book has all the belts system measurements already converted in the back of it :)
Thanks so much for this video! I started driving school, and I wasn't getting a "yes, the wheel WILL eventually change the direction", I was wondering how on earth it should be STAYING turned into the opposite direction, while it shouldn't. Your explanation rocks!
I rarely bookmark a video from the several moto vloggers whom I view. This one is an exception. Good stuff. Thanx.
Thank you so much, I'm glad it helps out.
I've ever seen the best only video on counter steering explanation. Actually I was in confusion. Now It's clear. I appreciate you... Thanks & let me be your fan. Reply me.
:)
Thanks for explaining this; I couldn't understand why turning right (with a right-mounted sidecar) would lift the sidecar. When I rode, years ago, I never learned countersteering (I came from a bicycling background, where I "steered" by leaning - I never gave the handlebars any input, and hadn't even considered turning them the "wrong" way.) Anyway, now I see that steering a sidecar towards the sidecar, which doesn't allow for leaning, is in essence "countersteering.
You would steer a combination bike and sidecar the same as a car. Steer right to go right.
Still looking through your videos, and I still find interesting stuff. You give by far one of the best explanations! Thanks
Thanks for watching ❤️ MotoJitsu.com for my App, Books, Merch, Discounts, etc. 👍🏼
I am a 67 year old new scooter rider and I find your instruction videos the best 👏👏🇬🇧🇬🇧
Wow, thanks!
It WILL become second nature...may take awhile for most, but this works for me everyday. 365 rider. Knowledge IS power. Thanks for sharing bro.
I agree.
I read an article in Cycle magazine about how racers were able to make such fast turns. It was about counter steering so I tried it and it worked. This was back in the early '80s when I was riding a '73 Honda 750.
Yup, works on all bikes :)
I like the concept of controlling both left and right turns with the left handlebar. Takes the confusion out of it and the risk of stabbing the go cable
Thanks! Share with others!! MotoJitsu.com
As a MSF Rider Coach, I find that the push/pull technique works well if the student is nervous and tenses up. Typically, when they get tense, the outside arm will push as much as the inside arm.
Many variables, I've seen it where just explaining this the rider gets it or sometimes pulling left to go right the lightbulb comes on. Or like you said, both.
Thank you for posting all your videos... they're priceless. Can't wait to get my bike on Saturday and start practicing!
I finalny decided to do full unrestricted motorcycle licence. I riding Lexmoto Adrenaline 125 with L-Plates on Provisional licence (UK) for last 16 monts. I love my little pony xD and dont need a bigger bike for now ( I am limited by size of my storidge) just want to try someting new. My firstt 2h are bookt for 21th of December. TANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING YOU DO. Ride safe!
You're welcome Luke
Yes, some people think body steering as counter steering. They even protest when I yank the steering hard to the opposite direction of the turn. They don't realize that quick turn need a very sudden steering to the opposite direction on most motorcycle, especially the one with long fork offset
Yes, body steering is a myth. Ca Superbike school has videos all about it. Share the video with others & check out MotoJitsu.com :)
@@MotoJitsu yes 👍
Very nice job explaining what push or counter steering is you have made something many don't understand understandable.
Simply brilliant. I love your clear, simple approach and your committment to improving the "software" before getting a bigger bike.
Thanks John.
Great Job, many such tips can save lives especially for new riders!! Even if one life is saved, this channel served what it intended for!
Your correct about the right turn and the throttle, makes me uncomfortable with throttle. Good point on why you pull left to go right.
:) Now go practice!
Darn! first thing coming to my MInd, when you mentioned "Not down"! was Body Position, angle in Elbows, range of motion, Lion King...
Wrote it down, to comment on it for addition…. then you said it yourself…
Wasn't the only time throughout this video! :-P
And yes: Accidental Discharge is a real thing! You as former Marine, do know for sure!
Great advice as always!
And a bit of a new concept on the Lecture, good!
Rubberside down:-)
Thanks for watching.
Great tip for a right hander Greg! I’ll work on pulling with left hand entering the right hand turn, especially on a downhill. Now that I think about it, this could have helped in some exercises at the Total Control Clinic.
Yes!
I've always been impressed at how quickly a pro racer (Moto GP for example) can adjust their lines when another rider crashes in front of them. I know that I need to practice to be just as good at instant zero-thought reflex reaction in traffic where there is more unpredictability than on a race track. As always, thanks for your videos.
I'm impressed at how a pro racer does pretty much anything since it's so far above my knowledge and skill.
MotoJitsu Indeed.
Fast Eddie, I watch listen and practice what I have seen in your videos every time I ride, I can hear you in my head at times as I am practicing. thanks for all you are doing for the moto community.
I'm glad my videos are so helpful :)
Yep 👍 Very good video, and explanation, so importent. Just turn the bike to the other direction, then the bike automatic leans to the correct side, then do the turn like you normally would. You can turn sharp and quickly this way, and if you don't learn it, you WILL get in a acendent in time.
thanks
Its pouring rain up here in the PNW but you've motivated the shit out of me.we used to have a saying in the army "if it ain't rain, your not really training". Time to go train.
Exactly!
Love these lessons. My riding has improved so much because of experiential understanding. "Be a do-er, and not just a hearer" thank you
:) yes!
I'm 100% with you on everything but the super slow movement. I've never noticed that effect, but I'll give you benefit of the doubt on that one until the weather clears so I can try.
Thanks for another great video.
Go try!
Your videos really helps people ✊🏾✊🏾
Hope so!
Finally a full tutorial..ill try this when i get my motor asap.
Thanks sir. More power! New subs here
Thanks!
Best counter steering explanation there is. Thank you for making it so easy to understand for new bikers.
you're welcome!
The skill to push AND pull is important for the track in particular but also for the street if you like to hang/knee drag. When you exit the corner and straighten the bike the outside arm should still be loose, ergo pull the handle bar with inside arm and to counter steer and voila! Smooth riding
If it works for you, then do it. Don't have to push and pull if you don't like to, no matter the location.
So many other channels do a really poor job of explaining this, but you did a really good job here 👏👍
I'm a motorcycle instructor who makes RUclips videos, there's a lot of RUclipsrs who ride motorcycles, big difference :)
MotoJitsu.com for my app, books, merch, affiliate links, discounts, etc.
@@MotoJitsu True true 👍
Watched it. Tried it. It works. Amazing.
Total control book arrived, just finished chapter 2.im about to start chapter 3 suspension, so far enjoying it.
How I have just found your channel is a mystery to me. Thank you for all these videos, you have a new subscriber and book reader 🏴
thank you!!!!!
Finally I found someone who explains pulling the opposite direction. I have been like what’s the fing difference.
❤️❤️❤️👍🏼👍🏼
Thanks Greg! Would not know how elso to steer, it's so much fun, but what I find soooo fantastic at counter steering is that, in het middle of the curve, you have total controle to tighten or widen your turn, whenevere, wherever (I sound like Shakira now, lol). When you miscalculated a curve, too wide or too tight, simply push or pull at bit more to correct. Personally, to widen inside the curve, I find push + pull easier. Find pulling inside the curve difficult. But, as Motojitsu master says, practice, practice, practice. Don't know which nutcase originally decided to deliberately steer in the wrong direction, and then steadfast promoted that, but he deserved a Nobel Prize. Can't do without.
Counter steering you do it without you even being aware its happening, but being aware makes it a whole lot easier.
You're welcome. Yes, practice everything, get good at everything.
Best explaining video yet. I've seen so many videos but no one explained it like you did, thank you. Will take my MC license this summer
Thanks! Share it!
love this advice, havent really heard it from anyone .. im on my second month riding and still no hiccups because of this channel
That's great to hear.