Driving a Harley Davidson Along Tulsa Highways: Tips on Safe Turns

Any true Harley Davidson enthusiast in Tulsa would dream of driving one in full throttle, perhaps in one of the Hallet Motor Racing Circuit events. Once you get that classic HD model that you’ve always dreamed about, it would probably be the right time to develop those racing skills.

However, driving for speed is not something you can indulge in along Tulsa’s highways. If anything, slow speed driving would more often be in order for safety’s sake, particularly when making turns.

Admittedly, driving on two wheels below 20 mph can prove to be quite a challenge. Unlike cars, motorcycles don't retain their stability when slowing down. Motorcycle instructor and writer Ken Condon shares a few tips and tricks that can help you safely steer your Harley Davidson on Tulsa highways.

Science Content

Unlike most cars, the center of gravity in motorcycles are located a bit higher, near the point where the seat and fuel tank meet. With the rider on the motorcycle, the center of gravity is raised even more, much like standing on a small boat, and the motorcycle's smaller cross section becomes more unstable when left alone.

Maintaining balance at slow speeds involves constantly shifting the center of gravity. This isn't much of a problem at higher speeds because inertia is helping you maintain stability. At slower speeds, however, inertia is all but gone. As the center of gravity shifts, your body needs to counter this change somehow.

Countersteering

One of the most popular methods of maintaining stability at slow speeds, countersteering directs the front wheel to the left just before leaning to turn to the right, and vice versa. Once the motorcycle has leaned toward the turn, the front wheel re-centers and stabilizes as it makes the turn.

Throttle Control

Throttle control is another skill to master during low-speed riding, especially when making sharp U-turns. It is important to throttle smoothly while transitioning from cruising to turning, and back to cruising again. Abrupt throttling can result in constant lurching and a more difficult turn; excessive throttling, meanwhile, can throw you off your Harley.

Trail Braking

Maintaining a safe speed while turning requires a skill known as trail braking. This technique is commonly used in motorcycle races to help riders stay fast while turning safely. To pull this off, apply brakes prior to entering a turn and smoothly apply throttle while in the turn. Trail braking helps maintain stability during a turn by keeping enough inertia.

Developing these skills, however, is only half the battle. You need a motorcycle with excellent performance to match. In Tulsa, Harley Davidson classics and other pre-owned models are offered by companies like House of Cars and Cycles.

(Source: How to Ride a Motorcycle Slowly, Riding in the Zone)