What is important to remember when riding downhill or downshifting?

When riding downhill or downshifting, it is crucial to realize that using brakes to slow down before transitioning to a lower gear is essential for maintaining control and stability. This practice helps manage the motorcycle's speed effectively and prevents the engine from over-revving, which can occur if the bike is downshifted at too high a speed. By applying the brakes first, riders can safely adjust their speed to match the lower gear, ensuring smoother transitions and reducing the risk of skidding or losing traction.

Using the throttle to accelerate while going downhill can lead to uncontrollable speeds due to gravity, making it challenging to stop or maneuver. Shifting to neutral before braking may result in a loss of engine braking, which is especially important when descending hills. Lastly, completely avoiding the use of brakes can result in uncontrolled speeds and reduced safety, particularly on steeper declines. Therefore, moderating speed with brakes before downshifting is fundamental for safe motorcycle operation on downhill slopes.