Why Good Cornering is a Game-Changer
- Increased Speed: A well-executed corner allows you to carry your momentum through the turn, so you don't have to slow down as much and then accelerate hard on the exit.
- Better Control: Proper technique helps you stay in control of your bike, even on tight turns or slippery surfaces.
- Injury Prevention: Knowing how to lean into a corner correctly and use your body weight helps prevent washouts and falls.
- Pure Fun: There's nothing more satisfying than carving a perfect, smooth turn.
Your Cornering Checklist: The "Look, Lean, Pedal" Method
Look Where You Want to Go:
- Action: This is the most crucial step. Your bike follows your gaze, so look through the corner to the exit. Don't stare at the ground right in front of your wheel.
- Why: Looking through the corner helps you naturally balance and steer towards your desired line.
Lean the Bike (Not Your Body!):
- Action: Instead of just leaning your whole body, you want to lean the bike into the turn. Keep your body's center of gravity relatively upright while pushing the bike down and into the turn.
- Why: This puts more pressure on the tire's edge, increasing grip and allowing you to take the corner at a higher speed.
Position Your Pedals:
- Action: As you enter a corner, make sure your outside pedal is down and your inside pedal is up. Put your weight on that outside foot.
- Why: This lowers your center of gravity and allows you to lean the bike over more, increasing stability and preventing your inside pedal from striking the ground.
Brake Before the Corner:
- Action: Do all your braking before you enter the turn. Slow down to a comfortable speed while you're still on a straight line.
- Why: Braking in a corner can cause you to lose traction and stand the bike up, sending you wide.
Look for the "Apex":
- Action: As you approach a corner, look for the "apex" – the innermost point of the turn. Aim to hit this point, and then begin to straighten out and accelerate on the exit.
- Why: This line allows you to take the widest, smoothest path through the turn.
Trust Your Tires:
- Action: Modern bike tires offer a surprising amount of grip. Trust your equipment and practice leaning the bike more than you think is necessary.
- Why: Confidence in your equipment allows you to corner faster and safer.
Learning to corner smoothly is a skill that takes practice, but once it clicks, it will transform the way you ride.
Ready to take your cornering to the next level? A new set of tires with fresh tread can make a huge difference! Browse our selection: Tyres
Happy Cycling,
The RUK-BIKES Team
P.S. What’s your go-to technique for a tricky corner? Share your secrets with us!
