What is the first step to take if your motorcycle begins to skid?

When a motorcycle begins to skid, the first step to take is to release the throttle and steer in the direction you want to go. This is crucial because maintaining control during a skid relies on managing both the throttle and your steering input.

Releasing the throttle helps reduce power to the rear wheel, which can be necessary for regaining traction. If you were to brake hard instead, it could cause the wheels to lock up, leading to further loss of control. Similarly, panicking and stopping all movements could exacerbate the skid, as it does not allow for any corrective action to be taken. Accelerating in a skid may also worsen the situation, potentially causing the motorcycle to slide further out of control.

By steering in the desired direction, you can help guide the motorcycle back onto its intended path while also correcting your balance. This combination of actions is essential for regaining control and safely navigating out of a skid.