What does the term "countersteering" refer to?

Countersteering is a technique used primarily by motorcyclists to initiate a turn. When a rider wants to turn left, they gently push the left handlebar forward, which causes the motorcycle to lean to the left and thus initiate the turn. This action is critical because it helps to shift the bike's center of gravity, allowing for more stable and controlled maneuvering.

This method is contrary to what you might expect, as it involves steering in the opposite direction to the desired turn. By pushing the handlebar in the opposite direction, the rider effectively leans the bike into the turn, rather than steering directly into it. This countersteering action is essential for handling at higher speeds and improves stability during cornering.

The other choices, while related to motorcycle operation, do not accurately describe countersteering. Steering with both hands does not specify the action needed to lean the bike, turning in the same direction as the turn contradicts the mechanics of countersteering, and using throttle to control speed pertains to speed management rather than the act of turning itself.