NOT KNOWING HOW TO COUNTER STEER YOUR MOTORCYCLE CAN KILL YOU!

[@strickca991]

The majority of people I see riding Harleys and other large bikes need to take this guy's riding class.

[@jrviade85]

Riders on the storm..

[@rodcoulter997]

Been riding since 1970…thought I knew how to ride….i didn’t. You are 100% correct.

[@BigTexan59]

As a former competitive motorcycle road racer, I can tell you that counter steering gives you precise and immediate response from the bike at speed. ALWAYS look where you want to go. It will be a conscious exercise at first, but it will soon become second nature. It works at 20 MPH and 180 MPH.

[@benfennell6842]

It works at 1mph on my bycicle, go try balancing a bicycle upright as slowly as possible, stopping completely when possible. The only way to keep it up without having incredibly good balance is to cycle forwards slightly whilst pointing the front into your lean to bring the contact patches under your center of mass. It's the same physics as counter steering just massively exaggerated.

[@ZSmith-yy4lv]

@@benfennell6842 counter steering works at any speed on any two wheeled vehicle. The only reason we say 10-20mph is because it’s around that point that it’s easier/safer to counter steer instead of turning the wheel in the direction you want to go.

[@findingmovement5824]

i learned it on my little sisters Barbie bike and it translated for me personally perfectly to the motorcycle im learning on. it was explained to me this way " push left go left, push right go right" as in pushing the handle bars. so i didnt get confused with right is left mumbo jumbo. just simple push right go right haha

[@blueskies195]

you never need that skill ever . been riding for 7 years everyday all day in all weather because that was my only ride. lol I got more time riding motorcycles than anyone I have ever met. so I can confidently say the test is for monkey who want to jump through a hoop. lol I will never get a m endorsement

[@benfennell6842]

@@blueskies195 "I've never had to learn how to do emergency maneuvers well" is what you meant to say.

[@rustyscrib6071]

Finally, someone who knows how to explain counter steering. Thank you!!

[@Ghostmaster111]

I'm currently trying to sleep, but watching this just makes me wanna go out there and try it lol

[@amcgarry68]

Same

[@sooshaggy]

2:26am lol

[@gangstagri11z6]

Agreed lol

[@austintaylor7117]

😂😂😂😂

[@austinmackenzie-michael29]

100%

[@johnpetzold7318]

I've been on motorcycles for 35 years, though I'm well aware of push steering or counter steering, I have never heard ANYONE even come close to explaining counter steering in a way that the average riders can understand! The fact is without this tool being present in your road skills toolbox it is very easy to get dead! So please keep up the good work and the perfect explanations!!!! thank you for your time and experience...

[@maddogrk1]

I AGREE!

[@Keelo13]

Been riding for 4 years and never noticed it but I’m willing to always learn tight corners is what I’m trying to get better at

[@ADOGGBOY]

@@Keelo13 you are already ahead in your riding skills, it took me 10 years before I realized I didn't realize I had ALOT to learn! On tight corners there are a ton of things to learn, start with corners condition, is it a clean corner of debris, wet, ect. Then you need to understand where your line is, entry and exit. Entry speed, exit speed, what gear to be in BEFORE THE CORNER, and there's a lot more. But those are a good way to start practicing, before you worry about lean angle and such. Ride your ride don't try to be fast, if you learn the primary stuff, you will increase your speed. Speed without the proper skills in a corner, your definitely gonna eat shit. Good luck, stay safe and most of all have some fun or why bother rite. P.s I may be a good motorcyclist but I don't have any teaching time, so remember to think about taking a advanced M.S.F course, or even better depending on what type of riding you do, you can take a track course, both are fun and you will learn a shit load of skills!

[@petefletcher]

Watch this. best explanation I've ever seen. kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5SxnoiEfbh1l8U

[@olenilsen4660]

You are so right. Maybe that´s where the "counter" part comes from - most people think it is counterintuitive. Although, if you know a little bit of the physics, it´s not. It makes perfect sense, as it should.

[@ikemancan]

I made a mistake and took a right curve too fast. I leaned the bike, but the yellow line kept getting closer. I pushed the right handle bar forward like i had been practising and the bike leaned that little extra i needed and I whipped around that corner safely in my own lane. Thank you Jerry Palladino

[@robbrowne8814]

The only time I have trouble is when I think about it.

[@timhallas4275]

Don't. Don't push... just tilt your head and shoulders the way you want the bike to go.

[@johnnysavior4538]

So much this. I reallized I was countersteering before I knew it was a thing.

[@timhallas4275]

@@moonshot9056 Not if you shift your weight in the direction you want to go. Have you ever raced?

[@timhallas4275]

@@moonshot9056 And in all of those cases, they did not lean right. I've seen them.

[@timhallas4275]

@@moonshot9056 Beginners should NOT try this method. They WILL crash.

[@TXLorenzo]

I had ridden years unconsciously using counter steering. When I started to consciously counter steer, it significantly increased my ability to maneuver better in emergency situations.

[@randymoreno9345]

Subconsciously* , if you were unconscious while riding a motor cycle you’d probably be dead.

[@clayman9759]

I must have been doing it and not knowing it.

[@TXLorenzo]

@@clayman9759 I think we all have starting with riding a bicycle.

[@emilysimmons7318]

I'm a new rider and I've watched a LOT of videos. Every one of them has taught me something, but your explanation "broke through" the mental block I had about countersteering. And it was all in your word choice! Referring to it as push steering - of course!!! I mean it's such a subtlety of language but THANK YOU! It aligns perfectly with the motion you're actually doing. That is what new riders need. And I agree with you that there's nothing wrong with understanding the physics of it, but when it comes to operating a 300+ lb bike, you want APPLIED instruction. And this did it for me. 👏 thank you thank you. And I loved the outtake!!!! 😅

[@israelsedano1144]

I agree! The way he explained and showed everything amazing. I immediately was able to understand and felt more comfortable the next time

[@flexjay87]

I been riding since 1971, and i never have even thought about how it works, i just ride.

[@fabiopunk1661]

same here. I think it's the bike that does it for me - probably.

[@MrJeffinLodi]

That is true, but the part of you that just rides, isn't enough if you want to, or need to get around a corner faster. Many rides will try to 'bail out' of a corner rather than understanding they can corner significantly more my steering correctly.

[@flexjay87]

@David Vanbrunt , oh i understand it, just dont care after 50 years of riding , use if needed, or not , i just ride.

[@mathieuclement8011]

here come the trolls...

[@Antheful]

i agree! i men wtf is people talking about!!! push counter whatever

[@Drengr-13]

The instructor who taught the Harley course for the cycle endorsement told us about this but never demonstrated or explained. You definitely make it make sense!

[@BigBucks191]

Same here. This video is awesome!!

[@ItothaGO]

@@BigBucks191 My instructor at the Harley Rider Course talked about it in detail. I'm glad he did.

[@JGonYT]

They should have before the swerve exercise.

[@TheKingHyena]

Someone on a cruiser that understands what countersteering is?!?!?! Incredible.

[@robertherrick6703]

Before I started riding a motorcycle a couple years ago, I was a little worried about the counter steering thing. I had never heard of counter steering before. I watched a bunch of videos and I still thought it was weird. Then one day while I was riding my new bicycle, I realized I have been counter steering all my life. I hadn't ridden a bicycle in over 13 years or so, and I didn't have to think about counter steering. No one had to teach us to counter steer when we were kids. It really is instinctual.

[@trevorhalford8410]

I agree, after watching this I was interested in the physics of it and after I rode a couple of times after I realized that I have been doing this all along I just didn't realize I was doing it.

[@xXdarkdekuXx]

I ride my escooter with no hands and essentially am counter steering with my feet.

[@Kris_P._Bey_Ken]

Everyone gets all up in arms about counter steering. It's instinctively intuitive. I've experienced it as a kid going down a hill on a bike. These videos add confusion to most people.

[@ezekielchariot]

Id never heard of the term counter steering until recently when I decided to get back to riding after 35 years. I never realized I was doing it, it may be that we were told to lean into a turn and for ever more we assume this is all that's doing it, it ends up that the brain learns a combination of using shifts in body weight and counter steering in order to achieve the turn however comfortably we want to complete it, sometimes you open your leg slightly to the side you want to go so its both a weight shift and a bit of wind drag. I'm sure we have all experimented various inputs and without realizing that we stored the results in our heads. I use my legs for a bit of fine tuning when I am well into a turn at higher speeds.

[@crashmandude]

​@ezekielchariot I always thought it was funny when people ask me, do you counter steer? Uh, I would get real far if I didnt...lol

[@oneelspence6980]

Your sense of humor and ability to laugh at yourself prove you're a true educator and a brave soul. That said, thank you for that lesson in counter steering, and for probably saving my life. I'm 51, and I'm about to realize my lifelong dream of owning and learning to ride a motorcycle. Wish me luck! 🙂

[@motorman857]

Good luck.

[@candykelly2705]

I obtained my endorsement at the age of 60! Have fun and ride safe!

[@kevinjohnson8863]

Been riding for most of my 60 years. You're never too old to learn or un learn . Thanks.

[@eyeballengineering7007]

I went to a riding course with the guy like you who taught the local PD. I had over three decades and experience and still managed to learn a few things that made me a better rider.

[@dpssaboteur3799]

Always something to learn! Complacency kills!

[@r.williamcomm7693]

Bought Jerry’s videos in the 2000s when getting back into riding. Those videos taught me & saved me many times. A friend was so impressed he took Jerry’s course & loved it. Amazed at how many times I see even experienced riders making mistakes because they ride like they’re driving a car. Hundreds of hours of guessing doesn’t compare to learning from the best & practicing proven techniques.

[@stephencruthis3916]

been riding for 55 years and learn something every day,,,never used it but drove slow

[@mikepoland4045]

Good stuff and I think you're right, a lot of people don't know this. Especially in a panic situation, they have to understand not only the importance of counter-steering, but also the effects of object fixation. If you keep looking at what you're trying to avoid, you'll hit it.

[@fallenstard]

Anyone reading the comments years later: THIS! This tip will save your life some day if you ride for a while. Always look where you need to go, not at what you're afraid of hitting. This is true if a car cuts you off, or someone is pulling out after a blind turn, or even just maintaining your line through a long curve. There's more to it on how and where to look, but the basic rule that will save your life is look where you want the bike to go.

[@thepanel2935]

@@fallenstardthat's right... LOOK where you want to GO; do NOT look at the object or obstacle you want to avoid!

[@johnmacdonald1878]

I rode a bike 30 forty years ago never heard of counter steering, I must have counter steered cause I rode push bikes and motor bikes. I was supposedly taught how to do it, when I did the basic skills course. I couldn’t see it working in the parking lot. So I went straight out the next day, bought a bike, and rode it 500 K up the Island hwy and over the mountains, cause Im really smart. Fortunately I watched Jerry, and The fireman and a couple other guys on KZbin. I consciously, practiced pushing the handle bars on the highway, What the heck, it worked. On my way home, on the climb up, in the rain, on a curve, I met a on coming semi tanker, on the way down, in my lane, So a simple thanks, to KZbin, Jerrys easy to understand instructions, and knowing how to counter steer. Knowing I had to turn and look where I wanted to go. Not at the semi. I probably wouldn’t have known instinctively.

[@tduncan55]

I'm going on 67 years old and I've rode my whole life off and on and I have never had knowledge of what you just showed me so simple. Amazing I appreciate that

[@mdynova4809]

Thanks Jerry, For some reason I always lean into the curve and actually never knew about the push steering. Now, it explains why I will have a hard time getting around some tight corners at a higher speed, but practicing this technique has been a game changer. This after riding for over 45 yrs.

[@chrisstiff4734]

My younger brother took a safety course to get his endorsement in 2003, I just rode and took the DMV tests in 98.... The first time we rode together it was a great twisty trail and he noticed how I was cornering (by leaning mostly) and suggested I try a different approach (push steering)...... What a difference this little bit of movement creates. You can't imagine the results to be this dramatic but they are!

[@aaronunterseher1627]

Same iv always physically leaned now I got something new to try.. I always wondered why highway riding was sooo damn tiring compared to riding dirt bikes all day 🤣🤣😂 Well shows not everything from a dirt bike translates

[@xxsunnymelodyxx77]

If your still alive you’ve been push steering all along.

[@ThisOldMan-ya472]

I have watched videos and heard older bikers say, "Lean into the corners." However, with PUSH STEERING, the bike leans and you can stay upright to a certain extent (fun to practice), I have ridden some center lines, tight around sharp curves, hoping the bike doesn't lean too far and skid out..... the chicken in me... but my GL1500 always comes through.

[@jackstandjunkieshaul-n-oat5079]

I started counter steering on my new 1987 Honda Hurricane when I wanted to race through Mulholland Hwy. I couldn't believe how much of a difference it made. 33 years later it still works like magic.

[@dalaymanzperzpektiv7742]

your one hundred % correct sir on counter steering...works on any motorycle i ride a 500cc sports bike and on on corners going over 15mph i never turn the handle bars or use the front brake, unless i want to kiss the ground....great video.

[@YarnKilla54]

I'm just a passenger on my husband's Softail Deuce who has stumbled upon your channel 😁 I have no want to ever own my own...I just want to enjoy riding on the back but I got to tell you I'm hooked on your channel💞 even though I never plan to drive a bike myself. I've learned a few things as a passenger but I've learned a lot about what it is he does upfront and why. Helps me to be a better passenger! my mom used to tell me, "In life never think you know everything because you'll never know everything".🤣 Thx!

[@fisayoadegoke2887]

Just a matter of time. It always starts like this

[@Kris_P._Bey_Ken]

- sponge Bob - 1 year later

[@vernchandler1489]

This is excellent!!! I learned this in my Beginer and Advanced Rider Safety courses and always applied the principals. It kept me alive when I hit a deer at 75 mph in Wisconsin. I always thought I swerved which is what they tell you not to do but I realize now that I automatically applied counter pressure which I was trained to do. The deer crashed through the right faring and engine guards but I magically stayed totally upright and in control. It saved mine and my partners life that night!!! I was even able to ride the bike another 100 miles home!!!

[@otsavage6087]

Damn you managed to completely counter the hit from the deer. Bikes want to stay up but will drop you in a second if you tell them to lol

[@BockRottom]

Watching this has helped me not only turn tightly by also turn from a stop sign or intersection. I've watched hundreds of videos but this.. Really helped

[@justanotherviewer52]

Thanks Motorman. Simple concept. Push right, go right. Push left, go left. Special thanks to Donna for putting up with you!

[@timhallas4275]

Simple concept for simple minds.. It's actually going to get more people in trouble. If you push too hard, and fight the natural forces on the bars, you will fall down and slide off the road into a ditch.

[@justanotherviewer52]

@@timhallas4275 If you are pushing so hard that you steer into a ditch, you have other problems and probably shouldn't be riding.

[@timhallas4275]

@@justanotherviewer52 We are talking about a beginner following an instruction and not understanding what is happening when he does it wrong. I will not accept that one can learn to ride a motorcycle from simple instructions, like push this and pull that.

[@bassmanjtfunk]

@@timhallas4275 if you ride off the road your definitely a Dufis .

[@timhallas4275]

@@bassmanjtfunk I've seen it happen to people who don't understand why you shift your weight to turn.

[@baz9438]

I'm from UK ,all manner of experience on the road from articulated lorry (trucks) ,cars and of course motorcycles . I've learned so much watching your channel, always something new to learn.

[@BennyTygohome]

I'm 52 and just learning this. I've wanted a motorcycle since i was young. I think it's getting near time to get one.

[@charleshansen7003]

Jerry, I have been watching and rewatching your videos for years. I believe I am a better rider because of it. Thanks to you and your team for great tutorials that are well worth it!! Happy riding.

[@gromie183]

Wow you explained it so simply, thank you! I don’t ride yet but I was having a hard time understanding it because I head someone say a while back that when counter steering it’s basically push left…lean left…go right, and vice versa. But this proved that wrong.

[@Stranger_Strange_Land]

You saved me, I'm pretty sure. I watched this (and many more videos) a couple times before going to pick up my new bike. First exit off the highway and this video clicked in my head and I totally grasped the concept. Way less scary when you understand how to steering and why... Thank you!

[@PowerGuitar9097]

I’m trying to get my motorcycle license and trying to understand how counter steering works has been an absolute pain in the ass, this video made it so much easier to understand. Thanks!

[@Project-lucifer8]

Cant tell you how thankful i am for your material, its kept me safe for my total of 50+ miles of learning. I would have never learned counter steering and probably would have already had a bad wreck if it wasnt for you, so thank you.

[@peteshelby21]

This dude is an OG. A guy who actually knows wtf he is talking about. Listen up Younger generation. Listen to your elders people. He explains just Like he says. KISS. For those who attempt to argue his lessons. Please stop. And paper bag is A Golden lesson. Great Tip

[@spierslp]

I’m a brand new rider, have had a bike for a month...and this just clicked. Thank you for this video

[@hassamtariq]

Experience beats NOTHING! Thank you so much for this push steering lesson. Been a year riding Harley Iron 883, always had issues with U-turns and leanings etc thought was getting better but this just changed my riding experience COMPLETELY today! Bless you! Ride Safe.

[@adriannarobeson4758]

My husband who has been riding since the 70s gets on me all of the time and tells me stop turning my bike as if it is a car ,, you must lean more, he said I have gotten better in the past couple of years that I had my motorcycle license, but more practice,, and this is a great video to help me out..

[@peterspokes4579]

I have found this easier to do than explain so beautifully explained. When you start counter steering you can be incredibly accurate with your direction by just the slightest push on the handlebar.

[@deeblack9393]

I want to thank you for explaining Counter Steering in a way that makes sense! I never understood it before even though I have watched several videos on the topic but now I do!

[@andymilewski4976]

I have been Riding street bikes since i was 13 and i am 54 now. i thought i knew everything about riding. then i took a motorcycle safety class a little over a year ago at the local college . what an eye opener about how ignorant i really was. i ride big bikes fully dressed electraglides and cvo roadglides. your videos have taught me more about handling these bikes like they are toys than i can say. between the class and your videos my riding is a thousand times better and safer. thank you .

[@carmarusso3869]

I wanna say that if this doesn't come to you naturally, then you have reason to be worried. God speed everyone

[@gizzyguzzi]

and if you have to think about it you will crash in an emergency. Oh, I had to lay it down! Fail. Countersteer.

[@another3997]

@@Dranreb865 TWO dudes, not "too"! And no matter how old they are... they are both right. If you have to think about it, you have a problem. Countersteering is a natural, instinctual process. Every young kid who learns to ride on two wheels figures it out without help, even if they are too young to spell "counter steer".

[@justsomeguy4562]

@@Dranreb865 you probably just turned 16 a month ago, and failed English class

[@RSProduxx]

@@justsomeguy4562 You guys got me curious about what he wrote... sad that it´s been deleted... :(

[@ConnorMcCrary]

@@RSProduxx same :(

[@bighoss5965]

Hey Jerry, just watched the counter steer video - good info! Been ridin over 40 years, am on my 5th Harley. At first I couldn't really relate to the concept of push forward on the side you want ot turn towards. Seems backward, and I couldn't see myself doin that to turn all these years. But you said we do that, but its very subtle and is blended in with shifting into the lean, so we really don't notice it. I decided to test that. I found a back road with no traffic, and used 60MPH as my speed. I paid close attention to hand pressure and tiny movements, and sure enough there was that same-side tiny push as I started to swerve. So I started to practice making stronger, more intentional pushes to initiate an avoidance swerve, instead of initiating it with the weight shift lean. Work like a champ!!! Did it both ways for a half hour to really compare, and the new way let me make controlled swerves in half the time as my old way. At 60MPH that faster swerve and distance saved could save my life someday! THANKS JERRY!

[@nitemareman1]

By far the best video a new rider could ever watch. This video will save your life!

[@johndavis452]

I learned this in my first motorcycle safety class. Have been riding safe since!!!

[@TidePodJesus]

I'm SOAKING up these points. I'm a new rider timidly wobbling my way around trying not to die so these videos are definitely helping.

[@emilysimmons7318]

You and me both!!! Good luck to you. As I type this I am TWO DAYS into riding. I sweat like a maniac from nervousness (plus it's 90 degrees in the midwest) and I feel like a total badass going 10 mph 😄 Baby steps! We will get there!

[@williambennett7033]

Just bought a 2014 street glide special after a hr or so of cornering my buddy noticed that I was having issues on cornering it wasn't to bad but enough for him to notice when we stopped he explained the push pull and we took back off I couldn't believe the difference...I've been riding dirtbikes for 35yrs and thought it was all the same well it's not I've also been riding snowmachines which at higher speeds this example is applied your turn right to go left and left to go right etc....this is a game changer

[@SaddleTrampTV]

I had been counter steering long before I realized that's what I had been doing. This video is spot on.

[@GorillaGlen]

I sure am glad I came across this video. I have been riding for a long time. I never knew about pushing on the handle bars like that going threw turns. I was out joy riding yesterday, gave it a try as soon as the front tire was inline with the rear. Soon after, using the push on every curve and made the ride that much more enjoyable. Thanks for the awesome tip Jerry.

[@kellymc239]

Hey Jerry. Thanks for the refresher on counter-steering. And also, according to the outake, now you're a Certified 'bagger'! :-)

[@rickseibel5904]

The Fix It Channel - “......Certified “bagger” riding a bagger!

[@matthewhayward5926]

I learned to counter steer as a kid on my push bike. It's amazing that people need these tutorials, but great that they're available. Really, all people need when operating any sort of vehicle or machine is to have full understanding of its operations and 'become one' with it. But Funnily enough many people I have met have the opposite problem and can't handle bar steer, mostly because they can't ride at low speeds. The most rewarding trick I learnt was to ride at 5kmph, makes every ride so much easier

[@benfennell6842]

"Handlebar steering" is counter steering. To conflate them as 2 different things is kind of weird to me. They're identical, just one is slower.

[@therealdealoneill]

imma be real i didnt even need this after learning what it truly is. Counter steering is a lot more natural than many may realize because I wasnt taught how to counter steer i did it back when i was younger tho so I already knew how to do this. I thought it was something entirely different and it made me overthink the shit lmao if I jus K.I.S.S = Keep it simple stupid like this guy said hahaha i woulda been on the same page

[@SinglJurny]

Its like denying physics but I'll give it a shot, always up for learning something new and learning this will save my life. I thank you sir.

[@ryanbert5668]

Great video. I’ve only ever rode a dirt bike as a teenager and have been looking into getting a cruiser. Was very helpful and full of knowledge.

[@cardiojim]

Ditto! I just got my bike and haven’t ridden yet. It’s getting new tires and I probably won’t get it until after I get the endorsement

[@phenominalblak9797]

I’ve been watching KZbin videos for the past couple of weeks in anticipation of taking the MSF course later this year….. I’ve heard a lot of KZbinrs TALK about counter steering / push steering but this is the first video that I’ve seen that clearly DEMONSTRATES and explains it! AWESOME video. I really enjoy your content and I’ll definitely be using your channel as an online resource as I mentally prepare myself to take the MSF course!

[@rmabgoi]

I have never watched videos of U turns on unleveld roads, up and down U turns. Those U turns are another skill level, and i wonder why there are no videos showing it. I mastered U turns practising them the hardest way...on unleveld roads, up and down, with, and without rear brake, only using the clutch at the right momentum, with and without passenger. I practised from levelled to high % unlevelled road (13 to 15%). My point is, once you master unlevelled road U turns, the levelled ones become super easy.

[@motorman857]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/pIWomWpma7V3o9E and this one kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5DReWWbqtKHn6M

[@comcastjohn]

Hey Motorman, I liked the new intro’s, keep them coming if you ,would. How about talking about the power of target fixation? How to break the spell and save your life. When I worked for the sheriffs department, we had a Deputy buy a new bike and he had never ridden before. We would park our bikes on the sidewalk to be under the covered parking where SO One and SO Two would park their cars. It would be two cars then concrete curb and a flat area enough for two bikes then two car spots again and so on for a total of about six cars. So when we pulled out, you had to make an immediate 90 degree left turn to ride out or you would hit the wall of the building. Well we had just ended our shift and my friend asked how we got out without duck walking. I told him that we practiced our slow speed skills. I told him to stay in the friction zone and to turn his head to look where he wanted to go. I said do not look at the wall or you will hit it. Sure enough he looked at the wall and panicked and goosed the throttle and hit the wall and fell over. We had a good little laugh. We picked him up and he walked her out. From then on he would park at the end close to the exit with no wall. I have seen guys run off the road in twisties and go over the side and fall into the woods because we were in the mountains in Ga. we would help them out and when asked what happened they would say they didn’t know. I would tell them that they looked like they target fixated. Could you go over target fixation and such? I think that it would be a great subject. Thanks for all that you and your wife do. Take care! 😎

[@garygullikson6349]

Self taught in the early 50's, weighing about 110 lbs, I had been riding my 590 lb '48 Indian Chief and occasionally wound up in a ditch until I found out about counter-steering in a Playboy article. Proper training of riders had not been invented yet.

[@Taldaran]

I noticed some of you are making fun of this, but this will save lives. Thank you so much for posting this!

[@moerosen2566]

I've been riding for just over 50 years and you just went over the same thing I was taught by a Miami Beach Motorman that was a friend of my father's back when I started. Over the years I've talked about this to so many people that I've ridden with that didn't realize they were doing it subconsciously. They thought I was nuts and then we'd go out for a quick 1 or 2 mile ride and they'd come back with an astonished look on their faces. I told them that this is the reason you read about a new rider coming off the highway and hitting a guardrail. they try to physically turn away from the rail and unwittingly put themselves into it. ..... Great Video

[@Hopeless_and_Forlorn]

Right on, Jerry. I have noticed that I can tell immediately when a motorcyclist who does not understand counter steering, particularly when they are changing lanes. They tend to lead with their shoulders, leaning them in the direction that they want to turn. Apparently they do not notice that they are actually pushing on the bar on that side, and the bike is responding. From what I can see, this causes a lag in the bike's response bike in turning, and makes for a sloppy lane change. In an emergency situation, I think it can slow the maneuver enough to turn a near-miss into an accident. I have been riding since 1958, beginning with a 3-horse Cushman scooter.

[@softailfun]

Which is why they say they “lean” to steer, but as you rightly say they are actually push steering. Well said sir.

[@watch76]

After all the vids and talk I’ve seen on KZbin and the web, you have finally made the counter steering conversation perfectly clear, thanks a million!!!

[@motorman857]

Glad it helped!

[@damachine3]

5:01 Well done and this particular comment directly addresses my comment from your other video regarding avoiding left-turning vehicles. This video is great because you talk about both types of steering so people don't think it's simply one or the other. Well done! I'm a subscriber!

[@westcoast3595]

Jerry the bearded, mismatched glove, bag head instructor. Gotta love it. 🇺🇸

[@motorman857]

I've explained why my right glove is finger less. It allows me to press the tiny buttons on the camera. And that's MR. mismatched glove, Bag head instructor, to YOU, funny man!

[@usernamemykel]

His socks are mismatched also. Fortunately, he has another pair just like them in his sock drawer.

[@usernamemykel]

@Bunnyshooter 223 Since when do socks contain fingers?

[@garlandhood9729]

Hey tried that counter steering out appreciate it a lot it do work

[@andreyzalupa6668]

@@usernamemykel never if theyre fingerless socks

[@jerrydc818]

I like the way you teach simple to the point. No unnecessary fluff explanations. And I don’t even ride a motorcycle. Thanks for posting

[@jontyjohnson]

Brilliant, loved the out take.

[@webadage]

Love your videos. I purchased your thumbdrive last night for my daughter who just started riding. I just wanted to clarify that when you say 'counter steering' and refer to pushing on the handgrip that corresponds to the direction you want to go, I would add that the action of pushing on the grip is what causes the counter steer to occur and to be clear... when you push on the grip the rider should allow the counter action to occur and not continue to push. LOL. I know it happens automatically but inevitably someone will say they pushed and fell down. LOL. You are the man! Keep up the good work Motorman. LOVED THE END btw. :)

[@mortondavisproductions7578]

When I first viewed this video about counter steering, I thought it was odd. However, one day while cruising on back roads with lots of twists and turns, I began to play with pushing on the left to turn left and so forth... and I love this. It works extremely well and my ability to elegantly make turns that were a bit difficult for me earlier are now enjoyable... It's as if the bike is telling me... thank you, you finally learned how to ride! Thanks Jerry.

[@dord1954]

I’ve been riding over 50 years and I just call it leaning, if I want to go left I lean to the left and lean right to go right

[@rolyf100]

If you think that really turns you, try leaning with your hands off the bars. Takes a hell of a lot longer to do a far lesser turn. You’re counter steering and you don’t realize it.

[@courtneygrier2015]

I was just taught "press left go left" (etc)and didn't know it had an actual term!

[@rolyfisher9137]

@@independent900 To the extent that calling it 'counter steering' may confuse some as it may be too much physics, I agree with you. For me it's an interesting name for a phenomenon associated with motorcycles -not cars- and I find the elaboration of interest. I sure won't overthink it though if I have to suddenly swerve. I'll let muscle memory take over and let the reflexes do what they do without having to know what it's called.

[@1badsteed]

@@rolyf100 what you said is exactly right. I used to think I simply leaned, but when I practiced without my hands, it took a lot longer. Then I focused on the mechanics of what I was doing and I am always pushing the bar on the side I want to go as well as leaning.

[@motorman857]

@@independent900 Watch this kzbin.info/www/bejne/gIjYhZaAmNZ0pMk I'm sure you know much better than myself and Keith Code, being an ''expert'' youtube commenter and all, but watch this as well just in case kzbin.info/www/bejne/jIeoaGyOiZ1gg8k

[@pootieputin2771]

Understanding counter steering is THE NUMBER ONE THING NEW RIDERS NEED TO LEARN!!!

[@uNii7y]

Lmaoooo no it’s not

[@TheSwiftMagician]

So true.

[@mitchigan7141]

If it doesn’t come to you naturally you’ve got problems.

[@burkeyatm]

@@mitchigan7141 it doesn’t come naturally. Ask someone who hasn’t ridden a motorcycle how it works, they won’t have a clue because it’s vastly less obvious on a push-bike. It’s also why learning to ride a push-bike is so difficult.

[@SW-zu7ve]

@@burkeyatm It comes naturally. My first time on a motorcycle no one TOLD me. I also didn't end up in the ditch a 40mph. Almost all people who took their first ride didn't have it explained. Seems like every single one of them would be in the ditch if it didn't come naturally. The first time you have the bike at speed and you try to turn the handle bars and the bike leans in the opposite direction you wanted it to. You pretty naturally know what do to stand it back up. You also figured out you need to put the pressure the opposite way or you are going off the road.......naturally learned in half a second.

[@jeffreywhitlatch1409]

Excellent, excellent video. I say this about steering a motorcycle quite often and I swear people don't get it. People think they have to lean, no push to handle bar and the whole thing will Lean. I have also been riding for over 35 years and I swear, people don't listen, they always think they know more.

[@jasonvanderwel3272]

I’m going to practice this more often now. My motorcycle instructor said the same thing, and everyone looked at him like he’d lost the plot.

[@timhallas4275]

What your instructor did, was tell you what to do, rather than teach you how motorcycles work. We ride bicycles at 5 or 6 on instinct... not by someone telling us to push on the handle bars. We lean left and the bike turns left. Lesson over.

[@apaibirides4964]

@@timhallas4275 STFU!

[@helloppl7876]

@@timhallas4275 yea lol😂 what's the need of an instructor for this ..it comes naturally even when you're riding a bike but still I didn't get what's counter steering

[@timhallas4275]

@@helloppl7876 They call this technique counter-steering, but it isn't. It' making your bike tip over in the direction you want it to go. Leaning is safer and more instinctive.

[@BB-1990]

@@timhallas4275 Oh, just lean off the bike huh, brilliant.

[@BellsRidesAboardSeaBoss]

The end is priceless almost as good as the lesson. I’ve been riding so long I don’t even think about the functions, it’s great how you can put it into words to help your viewers.

[@emmanuelgonzalez714]

This guy knows what he's talking about. So many people throw the correct technical words at you. I am learning how to ride a motorcycle, not how to be a physicists. Thank god, I finally understand what I am doing. I've been doing it right the whole time, but other videos with "counter steering" made me think I was doing it wrong.

[@mojojojo6241]

You really made that simple for me. I get it now, guess you learn after you fall. I getting back up. Thank you

[@rooster4450able]

I fell too but it’s a learning process I’ve only been riding for like two months 🥴

[@mojojojo6241]

@@rooster4450able So true

[@ferngorgo4276]

Goes to show you , you cant learn on your own. I have never pushed. I always pulled and leaned to turn. So now I will have to practice this . Thanks for the tips.

[@2wheelsOrDieNC]

I was a newbie n started watching his videos. No bs legitimate techniques. Extremely helpful. Will save your life.

[@danadiggins793]

Back in the 70s I steered the bike by the seat of my pants, didn’t know it forced the bike to “counter steer” . Liked your tip of the week! Haha!

[@PhilbyFavourites]

Dana Diggins: you and me both sir. I put my moped into a tree because I never knew about this

[@black83shadow]

You didn’t know because it’s done by instinct. You might think you are shifting weight but you are really pulling on the bar. It’s such a slight movement you don’t even know what you’re doing.

[@innovationgroupofsouthflor4744]

Thank you Jerry and Donna! You guys are doing great work. God bless.

[@MrUVENETWORK]

just got my first bike .....will be doing a class in a few weeks .....your info.......in well needed thanks

[@motorman857]

Good luck!

[@TheFalcro1234]

The end is priceless!! Worth the price of admission, without a doubt

[@im8980]

Practiced some counter-steering technique today, was great fun. The benefit is that it makes cornering much more relaxing, just pushing the bars forward, either on the right or on the left changes the direction of the motorcycle. Another thing I noticed, it works best at higher speeds. Thanks very much Instructor 😉

[@kc5hgv]

Yep your right about that. Learned that from a friend that was a Moto GP Racier.

[@ajd36]

How did you turn before?

[@onoriodaniel]

You are the man thank you I’ve watched several different videos I just learned today about counter-steering and was so confused and scared you literally showed me first hand what it and in a way I could understand what you were talking about thank you you may have just saved my life

[@onoriodaniel]

I’ll definitely be watching more videos from you thank you seriously

[@Geoff_G]

If you rode a bicycle as a child you've been doing this literally all your life.

[@timhallas4275]

Geoff G : No, you haven't.. You learned by instinct to lean in the direction you wanted to turn. You learned this by falling down because you turned the handlebars left while NOT leaning left. You DID NOT push the handle bars forward on the left to turn left. YOU LEANED and the handlebars turned on their own. That's what happens on your motorcycle today.

[@rykson161]

Yes , but I call it lazy arms steering !

[@timhallas4275]

@@rykson161 No, it's called RIDING two wheels. Steering is done on 3 or 4.

[@Geoff_G]

@@timhallas4275 yes, I did learn on a bicycle. Bicycle and motorcycle steer exactly the same way.

[@timhallas4275]

@@Geoff_G That's right... you and every kid learned how to use your body weight to turn left and right. We were not told to push on the handlebars. We were given a bike and allowed to "try it out". I remember a gang of us riding all around town without our hands on the bars at all. How ever did we turn?

[@stevenknox2083]

Love it push steering has saved my life more than once!!

[@timhallas4275]

If it did, that is because you had no experience you just pushed that button and hoped for a favorable result. No machine should be operated by a guy reading the instruction book as he goes.

[@stephenmoretti3252]

I'm 67, been riding since 2014, to date between 4 Harleys, 110,000 miles,just can't stop and thanks to Jerry's videos,it's been safe miles,practice every week.

[@BIGDOGPGHPA]

make no mistake this guy is the best there is watch all his videos

[@motorman857]

Thank you!

[@LGXITiberiusDecimus]

I dont even realize I counter steer anymore, thanks for the refresher

[@mvl71]

I just hope you're not going to make mistakes now you're concious of it. Just like chewing food; once you turn off the auto pilot and pay attention to the process you'll be chewing your tounge. Hard.

[@lunargeographer]

Thanks for showing it in action. I'm in the process of learning how to ride and i love this channel

[@motorman857]

Happy to help!

[@boataxe4605]

Got my first mini bike at 8. It’s strange to hear something that I’ve always done naturally explained in words.

[@rickhunt3183]

I used to have people tell me all the time, " I just lean the bike and it goes where I lean". I spoke with a professional racer in the 80's and he told me about counter steering, and I listened to his advice on how to be a better rider. I hate the term rider, because you're not just riding (some people are). You are controlling the machine and making it an extension of your will. Counter steering was something new to me, but I quickly found it gave the most control over the motorcycle. I've found that There's a lot or resistance to it from people or people have never heard of it.

[@0xsergy]

Isn't that what riding is? Controlling the machine? Lol

[@rickhunt3183]

@@0xsergy Are they really focused and in control or just think they are until an oh..shit moment happens? I have a heathy respect for the machine, and I always try to ride better each time I ride. I don't think anyone can totally dominate their bike. It's always a give and take relationship. The machine has a life of it's own. A VMax will only let you have so much control before it reels the owner back to reality. To me, when I hear and feel that VMax start up its saying I'm ready to deliver all the power you can take and beyond. That's my opinion anyway. I hope you have a safe day, and thank you for being nice...Rick

[@0xsergy]

@@rickhunt3183 imho if you really want to learn to control a bike... You start in the dirt. Everything else is bunk. Theorizing too much doesn't get you out there riding and practicing.

[@rickhunt3183]

@@0xsergy I totally agree. I was riding as kid when my grandparents bought me one for Christmas. I love a dual sport bike. You can go almost anywhere. I did all kinds of stupid stuff as a kid..doing wheelies and trying to jump home made ramps. I couldn't tell you how many time I came off that bike. I'm looking to get a 250 to have some off road fun and maybe take an excursion with. I need an off-road trip before I get too old.

[@VideoRanger]

I discovered counter steering 40 years ago. No one understood it or ever did it (knowingly). This is the first I’ve ever seen it explained. Thank you.

[@pawsnclaws2115]

Your a pro everyone riding needs to watch this video to stay alive.

[@markgardner5076]

I went through motor school in the 80's and while I still respect my training officers, I've learned things I was never taught since I started this trop down memory lane with Jerry...

[@ryanm5946]

I haven't bought a bike yet and I was totally lost until you see clear as day the "push" and response from the bike at 4:44. great video man, thanks for the homework.

[@boomer2095]

The two things I repeat as I am riding is “push right, go right” and “push left, go left”. The only thing I found out the hard way is that if you have low handlebars, you have to be sure you are pushing behind, and not on top of. If you get in the zone riding and you have an emergency situation come up I found I was pushing down on an angle and not horizontally directly from behind. Some riders have higher handlebars,and this will never be an issue

[@wfopete8434]

I have been writing for over four decades and I heard about this counter steering and checked out a couple videos and was a little confused. I watched your video and you called it push steering and that has made all the sense in the world. Turns out I have been counter steering or push steering my whole life and didn't realize it. Thanks for keeping it simple.

[@larryambrose5078]

LMAO with the bag/mask! I explained this technique to a good friend and rider, he thought I was nuts. He tested it and thanked me afterwards...

[@C0k3d]

God damn it, why didnt they call this push steering in the first place, counter steering is so unnecessarily confusing for a new rider.So glad i found this channel.😃

[@geoff2911]

I have a perfect story to explain how this works in my hometown we have a big straightaway and then a long left hand curve, I had ridden dirt bikes growing up and some experience but not a lot on street bikes, I was going way too fast for this corner and my riding ability at that time, I let off the throttle as I was making this curve, my speed in the middle of the curve was around 50 miles per hour give or take, I found myself drifting to the right, there was gravel and a ditch there was no shoulder on this road, looking back the reason I kept drifting right was because I was trying to turn my handlebars to the left in my Panic as I was thinking I was going to end up driving off the road, which as explained in this video caused me to continue to drift right, I got lucky and slowed down enough from letting off the throttle as I started to make the curve, listening to you explained how turning works at different speeds, two and two together I realized that's what caused my issue at that time, great videos thank you keep up the good work

[@MrLijoisthebest]

Thank you so much for making such informative and riding awareness content. Really appreciate your work. Happy and lucky to be watching this 😁