Wheelspin

Wheelspin happens when the driven wheel, on a motorcycle the rear, rotates faster than the speed at which the bike is actually moving. The tyre has exceeded its grip and is slipping on the surface.

On tarmac, wheelspin usually means lost drive and a risk that the rear steps out, which is why traction control limits it. Off-road, a little controlled spin helps clean the knobs and keep momentum, but too much digs the tyre into soft ground. In sand and mud, excessive spin can bury the rear wheel up to the swingarm.

To reduce it: use a higher gear, open the throttle more gently, shift your weight over the rear wheel, and use suitable tyres and pressures for the surface.