If you start to lose control of your motorcycle, what should you do first?

When you start to lose control of your motorcycle, the first action to take is to squeeze the clutch lever in fully. This action disengages the engine from the rear wheel, allowing the power to the wheel to be cut off. This is crucial because when the engine is disengaged, it helps to stabilize the bike and allows you to regain control without the rear wheel experiencing unwanted power delivery, which could worsen instability.

By squeezing the clutch, you can also slow down the motorcycle safely while maintaining control, since it allows you to focus on steering and positioning without being affected by engine power. This step is a fundamental maneuver taught in motorcycle safety courses and is essential in managing situations where balance and control are compromised.

The other choices can lead to more complex situations. For example, accelerating when losing control may cause further loss of traction, while turning sharply can lead to tipping over or losing more control. Releasing the throttle immediately, while potentially stabilizing the bike, can also cause a sudden change in dynamics that may not help regain control effectively compared to squeezing the clutch first.