“Think you’re skilled enough to handle serpentines? Even seasoned city riders often fall into the trap of overconfidence. Serpentines demand precision—every mistake can be fatal. Sliding at 60 km/h into a tree, pole, or oncoming traffic isn’t just a possibility; it’s reality unless you know what you’re doing.”
What’s Happening?
City riders with a few seasons under their belt often feel confident, but that confidence can turn against them. Common mistakes on serpentines—like low-sides or high-sides—aren’t due to a lack of experience, but rather an improper approach to riding.
Scenario 1: The Low-Side
What is it?
A low-side happens when your bike loses traction at the rear wheel, leans too far, and drops onto its side. You and your motorcycle skid across the asphalt. While generally less dangerous than a high-side, a low-side can still be catastrophic if you hit a pole, barrier, or oncoming vehicle.
Why does it happen?
Tires have a limited grip that decreases as the lean angle increases. Common causes of low-sides:
- Over-leaning the motorcycle.
- Abrupt rear braking.
- Snapping the throttle.
- Slippery surfaces like sand, oil, or wet pavement.
How to avoid it?
- Avoid excessive lean angles.
- Be smooth with throttle and braking inputs.
- Pay attention to road conditions.
Scenario 2: The High-Side
What is it?
A high-side is far more dangerous. It occurs when the rear wheel slides and suddenly regains traction. This abrupt grip causes the suspension to compress violently, catapulting the rider into the air.
What does it look like?
You’re airborne, and then you crash back down hard. Recovery from this kind of accident often takes months, and your bike likely won’t fare much better.
Why does it happen?
- Loss of rear traction due to excessive lean, throttle, or braking.
- Abrupt correction: cutting the throttle or releasing the rear brake too quickly.
How to avoid it?
- If the rear wheel is sliding, maintain a steady throttle instead of closing it.
- Don’t abruptly release the rear brake—smoothly regain control instead.
How to Avoid These Mistakes
- Train Your Traction Limits
- Practice leaning on safe tracks or using pit bikes.
- Learn your bike’s limits at slower speeds.
- Always Keep a Safety Margin
- Leave room for error in speed and trajectory.
- Remember: the risks on the road are far higher than on a track.
- Master Trail Braking
- Learn how to apply the front brake smoothly while cornering.
- Use progressive brake pressure to maintain stability.
- Be Aware of the Surface
- Avoid slippery road sections like wet paint, sand, or oil.
- Adjust your riding style to match the road conditions.
- Focus on the Exit
- Always look where you want to go, not at the obstacle.
- What is a low-side in motorcycling?
It’s when the bike loses rear traction and falls onto its side, causing the rider to slide with the bike. - Why do high-sides happen?
They occur when the rear wheel slides but then suddenly regains traction, throwing the rider off violently. - How can I avoid crashing on serpentines?
Practice leaning, leave room for error, and learn trail braking to control speed and trajectory. - What should I do if my rear wheel starts sliding?
Maintain a steady throttle and avoid abrupt corrections like closing the throttle or releasing the rear brake. - Can I brake in a corner without crashing?
Yes, by using trail braking—a smooth, controlled application of the front brake while cornering. - How does road surface impact grip?
Slippery surfaces like oil, sand, or wet pavement reduce traction and increase the risk of crashes. - Why is practicing lean angles important?
It helps you understand your bike’s limits, reducing the risk of low-sides caused by over-leaning. - What should I do if I lose control in a corner?
Focus on the exit, stay calm, and use gentle throttle and brake adjustments to regain stability. - What makes excessive leaning dangerous?
It reduces the available grip, making it easier to lose control. - Why is a safety margin essential on serpentines?
It gives you time and space to correct mistakes, especially on unpredictable roads.
5 Additional Topics for Readers
- Top 5 Rider Mistakes on Mountain Roads and How to Fix Them
- How to Safely Practice Trail Braking for Cornering
- Why Proper Tire Choice Can Save Your Life on Serpentines
- Mastering Emergency Braking on Mountain Roads
- How to Rebuild Confidence After a Motorcycle Crash