What does the term "countersteering" refer to in motorcycling?

The term "countersteering" is a technique used in motorcycling to initiate a turn effectively. When a rider wants to turn left, for example, they briefly push the left handlebar away, which causes the motorcycle to lean to the left and subsequently turn in that direction. This action helps to create the necessary lean angle for the motorcycle to navigate the turn safely.

Understanding countersteering is essential for handling motorcycles at higher speeds, as it allows for more precise control and balance. It is a fundamental skill that differentiates more experienced riders from beginners, who may not yet understand how to use handlebar pressure to influence their direction.

Other options like leaning into the turn, stopping quickly, or simply accelerating while turning do not describe the mechanics of countersteering accurately, highlighting the importance of this technique in navigating turns effectively while maintaining stability on the motorcycle.