When is it best to change gears while riding a motorcycle?

Changing gears before starting a turn is ideal because it allows the rider to maintain better control of the motorcycle. When you shift gears ahead of the turn, you position yourself to accelerate smoothly out of the turn while maintaining stability. This approach ensures that you are not distracted by having to shift gears during the turn, which could lead to a loss of control.

Shifting gears during a turn can disrupt the balance of the motorcycle, making it harder to lean and navigate effectively. Waiting until after the turn to change gears may also be less effective as it could result in a delay in your ability to accelerate out of the turn. Changing gears at a stoplight doesn’t relate to the maneuvering of the motorcycle in turns, so it is not as relevant in the context of making the best decision for safety and control while cornering.