Mastering curves is essential for safe motorcycle riding. This unit dives deep into motorcycle dynamics, including lean angle and traction management, and teaches you practical techniques like counter-steering and optimal line selection. Prepare to confidently navigate any curve on Dutch roads and ace your CBR A2 theory exam.
Browse all lessons that make up Curve Negotiation and Advanced Cornering. Each lesson focuses on specific topics, learning objectives, and core concepts, helping you build essential knowledge and follow a clear, structured progression toward your study goals in the Netherlands.
This lesson explains the principle of counter-steering, the primary method for steering a motorcycle at speeds above a walking pace. You will learn that to turn right, you must momentarily press forward on the right handlebar, and to turn left, you press the left one. The content demystifies the physics behind this technique, explaining how it uses gyroscopic forces to initiate a lean, which is what actually makes the motorcycle turn.
This lesson introduces the concept of the 'line'—the path your motorcycle takes through a curve. You will learn the three key parts of a corner: the entry point where you begin your turn, the apex (the innermost point of your turn), and the exit where you straighten up. The content explains how a 'wide-deep-wide' path maximizes your view through the corner and reduces the required lean angle, enhancing safety and control.
This lesson focuses on the critical relationship between speed, braking, and throttle control in cornering. You will learn the golden rule: complete your braking while the motorcycle is still upright, before initiating your lean. The content then explains how to use a neutral or slightly positive 'maintenance throttle' to keep the suspension settled mid-corner, followed by smoothly rolling on the throttle as you exit the turn to aid stability.
This lesson explains how you, the rider, are an active part of the motorcycle's dynamics. You will learn how shifting your body weight into the turn can reduce the required lean angle of the motorcycle itself, increasing the margin of safety and grip. The content covers correct posture, the importance of looking through the turn with your head up, and how to stay relaxed on the controls to allow the bike to work effectively.
This lesson prepares you for real-world cornering challenges where conditions are not always perfect. You will learn how to identify clues that a corner may be tightening (a decreasing radius) and how to adjust your line accordingly. The content covers strategies for dealing with unexpected hazards like gravel or wet patches mid-corner and emphasizes the importance of always riding in a way that leaves you an escape route or a margin for error.
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Counter-steering is the technique where you push on the handlebar in the direction opposite to the turn you want to make to initiate a lean. For example, to turn left, you briefly push the left handlebar forward. This is fundamental for safely and smoothly cornering a motorcycle at speed. Understanding this is crucial for your CBR theory exam.
The ideal line typically involves approaching a curve from the outside, turning towards the inside (apex) at the midpoint of the curve, and then exiting back towards the outside. This 'outside-inside-outside' approach helps maintain a wider turning radius, maximizes visibility, and allows for smoother throttle control, which is a key aspect tested in the Dutch theory exam.
For maximum safety and control, it's best to brake *before* the curve while upright. Ideally, you should aim to do most of your braking before entering the turn. Light acceleration through the curve can help stabilize the bike. Avoid heavy braking or abrupt throttle changes *in* the curve, as this can upset the motorcycle's balance and reduce traction, a common error in exam scenarios.
Lean angle is how much you tilt the motorcycle to turn. Traction is the grip your tires have on the road. As your lean angle increases, the available traction decreases. You must manage your speed and lean angle carefully to stay within the tire's traction limits, especially on slippery surfaces or when encountering unexpected situations. This balance is a vital concept for your theory test.
Body positioning plays a significant role in initiating and controlling a turn. By subtly shifting your weight and leaning your body independently of or in sync with the motorcycle, you can influence the lean angle and stability. Maintaining a relaxed but firm grip, and looking through the turn, are essential elements of effective body positioning for safe cornering.
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Lessons in Curve Negotiation and Advanced Cornering
See who benefits most from studying Curve Negotiation and Advanced Cornering. This overview explains how the unit supports different learning needs, what level of knowledge is helpful before starting, and how it fits into the overall study path in the Netherlands.
This unit is designed for all A2 motorcycle license candidates preparing for their Dutch CBR theory exam, particularly those who want to build confidence and skill in cornering. It's also beneficial for riders looking to refine their technique and improve overall motorcycle control on complex road sections.
See how Dutch Motorcycle Theory (A2) is structured, with key topics, learning objectives, and a step-by-step path for theory preparation in the Netherlands.
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