What is countersteering in motorcycling?

Countersteering is a fundamental technique used in motorcycling to initiate a turn. When a rider wants to turn left, for example, they briefly push the left handlebar away from them, which causes the bike to lean to the left. This lean enables the motorcycle to navigate the turn more effectively, utilizing the physics of leaning and centrifugal force. The act of pushing the handlebar in the opposite direction of the intended turn helps the motorcycle to shift its weight and balance, allowing for smoother and safer cornering.

Leaning the bike into a turn is important but is facilitated by the initial countersteering action; without countersteering, achieving the necessary lean angle for a safe and effective turn would be difficult. Braking hard before a turn and accelerating into it are tactical maneuvers but do not define countersteering, as they involve different aspects of riding dynamics that relate more to speed control and traction.