In this installment of “Motor School,” Quinn Redeker discusses cornering techniques. For tight, slow-speed turns, counterbalancing enables a more controlled drop, with a much tighter turning radius to boot. Photos by Kevin Wing.

I think it?s fair to say there are a few subjects we should all steer clear of if we want to foster a harmonious relationship with other humans. Politics and religion are obvious land mines. And my wife knows that recommending a culling of the herd in the garage isn?t a party?starter. But it appears I?ve discovered a ripe one you might also have some feelings about. And knowing how domineering and strong?willed you are, when the dust settles, I really hope we can still be friends. Okay, here goes nothing.
There exists a feverish debate amongst motorcyclists regarding two uniquely different approaches to riding. Of course, there are more than two, but these revolve around the rider?s center of balance (center line) in relation to the motorcycle?s center of balance while navigating turns. Yep, a global hot button, this one. But please don?t ask for the Gold Codes just yet.

When a motorcycle starts to lean over and fall into a turn, its center of gravity shifts inward, causing it to head toward the ground (just go with me here; it?s science). When this happens, we have a couple options. One, we can counterbalance, a technique that shifts our center of gravity to the outside of the bike?s center of gravity, effectively countering th...