Rolling on the throttle

Rolling on the throttle means opening it smoothly and progressively rather than snapping it open. In magazine tests, a 'roll-on' is also the time it takes to accelerate between two speeds in top gear.

In corners, a gentle roll-on after the apex shifts weight slightly to the rear, settles the suspension and keeps the tyres working in their best range. Abrupt throttle changes upset the chassis and can break traction, especially in the wet.

Practise matching throttle to lean angle: the more the bike is leaned over, the gentler the roll-on, opening it further as you stand the bike up on the exit.