Squaring off a corner

Squaring off means braking deep, turning sharply at a late apex and getting the bike upright early to accelerate hard out of the corner.

Squaring off a corner means taking it in a V shape rather than a smooth arc. The rider brakes deep into the turn, makes a quick, tight change of direction around a late apex on the inside, then stands the bike up early and accelerates hard on the exit.

It is useful in tight hairpins, on short tracks, in supermoto and in motocross, where it also blocks the inside line from passing riders. It suits bikes with strong acceleration, because more time is spent upright with the throttle open.

On public roads, a late apex has a safety benefit too: it gives a better view through the bend. Keep braking finished or very light before you turn hard.

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