Here is a list of the top 10 things riders need to know (but often don’t):
1. Traction management and direction control are directly affected by load transferring to the tires.
2. Timing of deceleration, braking, countersteering and acceleration directly affects traction, direction control (line) and where the bike is pointed at the turn exit.
3. Intensity of brake and throttle application and handlebar inputs directly affects traction, chassis stability and direction control.
4. Specific Visual targets help to accurately read the road and minimize overspeed corner entry.
5. Dynamic Lane positioning is a critical tool for maximizing angle of view and conspicuity.
6. Trailbraking done correctly, maximizes stability, manages traction and refines corner entry speed and direction control at mid-corner and exit.
7. Even the best riders get into trouble if they don’t respect environmental limitations.
8. Electronic rider aids help manage traction; they do not create more traction.
9. Proper riding gear minimizes the risk of injury, but does not make you “safer”.
10. Reading lists like this can make you smarter about riding, but only application of knowledge can make you a better rider.
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You are right; bad habits are hard to break. As I practice more of what I’m learning, I’m liking it a whole lot! Trail-braking; slow in — out with a grin. Target-fixation is a bugger. Looking way ahead and where you want to go. 1 — 5 being mindful and catching bad habits, and increasing purposeful concentration.
I agree with #5. For better visibility, you can use blind spot mirrors and yes riding accessories like clothing, helmets are important and they actually minimise the risk of injury.