Counter Steering on a Bicycle

Counter steering on a bicycle, also referred to as instant turn technique, is an emergency bicycle maneuver useful in avoiding obstacles. This is important when a car suddenly cuts you off or when an unmindful pedestrian gets in your way.

What is counter steering

Counter steering is a maneuver used by both motorists and cyclists. It is done to initiate a turn toward a specific direction by quickly steering counter to the rider's desired direction. For example: to turn right, steer to the left, and vice versa. If by any reason you cannot apply your brakes to stop and avoid a car, pedestrian, or an obstacle, you must turn as quickly as you can. Counter steering or instant turn is quicker than the normal turn. For you to be able to execute it effectively and safely, you have to practice it on a quiet place like an empty parking space or park.

How to execute counter steering on a bicycle

Basically, this technique can be both done when you are riding either a bicycle or a motor bike. One of the good things about counter steering is that you can use it when you are either riding fast or a bit slow.

The Handlebar Jerk

You jerk your handlebar on the opposite direction you wish to take. For example. if you intend to go right, you quickly jerk your handlebar slightly to the left. This very very quick move will cause your bike to lean a little bit. This will set up your turn. Your bike will weave to the left but will turn to the right.

The Turn

After your bike leaned, you must lean in to the opposite direction and then make your turn. Take note that there can be an obstruction around the turn so you have to pay close attention when executing this fast turn.

Pedal Position

To avoid hitting your pedal while executing this technique, place your inner foot on the 3, 9, or 12 o'clock position. However, since pedal position varies among cyclists. So just make sure you are confident and comfortable in your pedal position. Lean hard on your outside pedal to help you retain traction as you execute your turn.

More Tips

The key to cycling safely is still avoidance. Avoid taking a lane that's too narrow to share safely. You have to know how to properly execute counter steering on a bicycle to have a safer riding experiences.

Zize Bikes is the maker of durable, safe, and easy-to-ride bicycles that hold riders up to 550 pounds! These bikes have strong custom built frames, large extra strong disc brakes, wide well-padded saddles, strong rims and tires, sturdy mountain bike platform pedals, and custom internal gears. Visit us at our web store for up to the minute news and information about bicycles for riders of all sizes.