What should you do when the rear wheel locks while trying to stop quickly?

When the rear wheel locks while trying to stop quickly, the appropriate response is to gradually release the rear brake. This action allows you to regain traction and maintain better control of the motorcycle. Locking the rear wheel can lead to a loss of control, increasing the risk of skidding or sliding. By releasing the brake gently, you can allow the tire to re-establish contact with the pavement, helping to stabilize the bike and avoid a potential fall.

In situations where the rear wheel is locked, maintaining throttle or keeping the rear wheel locked until completely stopped can exacerbate the problem, leading to dangerous instability. Flicking the handlebars side to side is generally unhelpful and can further complicate control issues, making it more challenging to manage the bike under those circumstances. Therefore, understanding the importance of releasing the rear brake gradually is critical for safe riding and effective emergency stopping.