What should a rider do before entering a turn?

Before entering a turn, it is essential for a rider to close the throttle and slow down. This action helps to establish proper control and balance, allowing for a smoother and safer negotiation of the turn. When a rider slows down, it enhances their ability to steer and adjust their line within the turn, especially if unforeseen obstacles or conditions arise. Reducing speed also decreases the chances of losing traction, which is critical in maintaining stability while leaning into the turn.

The importance of slowing down before a turn is reinforced by the fact that entering a corner too fast can lead to difficulty in steering and could result in losing control of the motorcycle. By approaching the turn at a manageable speed, the rider can more effectively respond to the road's curvature and any potential hazards.

While leaning into the turn is indeed a necessary action after properly slowing down, it should not be the first choice without managing speed. Activating the turn signal is a crucial safety step for communication with other road users, but it is secondary to the need to adjust speed appropriately before cornering. Speeding up briefly before a turn typically increases risk and should be avoided.