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Highside
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Highside

1 min read

A violent ejection over the top of the motorcycle — one of the most dangerous motorcycle crashes.

What is it

A highside is a crash where the rear tire loses traction, then suddenly regains it — catapulting the rider over the top of the motorcycle. It's one of the most violent and dangerous types of motorcycle crashes, as the rider is thrown at speed with no control over landing.

How it happens

  1. The rear tire breaks traction — from aggressive throttle, wet surface, or hard braking
  2. The rider instinctively chops the throttle or dumps the clutch
  3. The rear tire suddenly regains grip
  4. The sideways energy converts to upward force
  5. The motorcycle flips, launching the rider over the high side

How to reduce the risk

  • Smooth throttle inputs — never snap the throttle open or shut mid-corner
  • If the rear starts sliding — do NOT abruptly close the throttle; ease off gradually
  • Practice clutch control to manage rear-wheel slip
  • In wet conditions — double your smoothness on every input

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Related terms

Lowside

The motorcycle slides out and falls to the inside of the turn. Less violent than a highside but far more common.

Stoppie

Flipping over the front wheel from excessive front brake force. The rear wheel lifts off the ground.

Whiskey Throttle

Involuntary throttle opening from panic — the hand grips tighter, accelerating the bike uncontrollably.

Tank Slapper / Wobble

Uncontrollable handlebar oscillation at speed — the bars violently slap side to side.

T-Bone Collision

A right-angle collision where one vehicle strikes the side of another. Extremely dangerous for motorcyclists.

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Counter-steering

Counter-steering

Push right to go left. The fundamental physics of motorcycle steering at speed.