High-Side

A high-side is one of the most violent types of motorcycle crash. It happens when the rear tyre slides out while the bike is leaned over, then suddenly regains traction. The bike snaps upright and flips towards the outside of the turn, catapulting the rider into the air.

Typical triggers are too much throttle on a cold or worn tyre, a sudden throttle closure during a slide, or a rear wheel locking under braking and then being released. Riders tend to land hard, so injuries are usually worse than in a low-side.

Modern traction control and cornering ABS greatly reduce the risk. Warm tyres up gradually and apply throttle smoothly when leaned over; if the rear steps out, keep the throttle steady instead of snapping it shut.