[sportrider - latest stories] - Riding Skills Series: Throttle Control

[Ninjette Newsbot]

Riding Skills Series: Throttle Control

How and when to get on the gas.Most riders look at the throttle simply as the "go-fast" control: open it to go faster, close it to slow down. But in fact the throttle is much more than that. Because the engine affects the motorcycle's dynamics so much-especially in the middle of a corner-the throttle can be used as a tool to help your bike's chassis work better. When the motorcycle is under power, there are several factors that work in your favor. The chassis is more stable as the engine's spinning internals add more gyroscopic effect to the mix. There is less load on the front end, allowing the suspension and tire to work better as well as reducing the risk of a front-end crash. And opening the throttle brings the rear-end squat characteristics into play as well, improving the suspension action and tire grip at the rear end as well. If you've ever found a false neutral in a turn or experimented with coasting down a twisty hillside, you'll know how much the engine can influence the chassis. With no power applied, both the steering and suspension work differently and can cause some tense moments midcorner. (And no, we aren't recommending that you coast down a twisty road to try this)


Photo Gallery: Riding Skills Series: Throttle Control - Sport Rider Magazine

Photo Gallery: Riding Skills Series: Throttle Control - Sport Rider Magazine


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