Drifting (Rear-Wheel Slide)

Drifting means controlling a bike while the rear tyre slides sideways through a corner. On dirt it is done with throttle to break traction and steer the bike with the rear; in supermoto and road racing, riders slide the rear on corner entry by backing it in with engine braking and the rear brake.

Off-road, a controlled rear slide is a basic skill: it helps turn the bike on loose surfaces and in flat corners. On tarmac it requires high skill and a suitable bike, and is best learned on a track or supermoto course.

Start on loose gravel or grass at low speed, sitting forward with the inside foot out, and practise gentle slides with throttle and rear brake before going faster.