When the front tire starts to lose traction, the rear steps out, or the bike suddenly feels like it’s about to go down, most riders have the same instinctive reaction: do something. Put a foot out. Chop the throttle. Hit the brake. But in many cases, that split-second reaction is exactly what turns a momentary loss of traction into a fall. In this Rider Skills episode, Clinton Smout joins Jim Martin to look at those brief, unnerving moments when an adventure motorcycle starts to let go, and why the rider’s first response is often panic, not correction.
The conversation explores what causes traction loss in the first place, especially at the front end, and why it feels so final when the front wheel starts to wash out or push in a turn. Clinton breaks down how terrain, rider input, braking, throttle, balance, body position, and counterweighting all affect traction and control when riding off road. The episode also explores the common reactions riders have when the bike starts to go — and why some of those reactions, even though they feel like a save, can actually make the situation worse.
From there, the discussion turns practical. Jim and Clinton talk about how riders can build the confidence and motorcycle riding skills to stay with the bike for that extra fraction of a second, and why experience, body position, vision, and structured practice all matter when traction starts to disappear. This is not an episode about pushing through everything or pretending every loss of traction can be saved. It’s about understanding what may still be recoverable, recognizing when panic is taking over, and learning how not to interrupt the bike before it has finished what it’s trying to do.
Clinton Smout - SMART Adventure Programs/SMART Performance Centre:
Clinton Smout is the highly regarded chief motorcycle instructor and founder of SMART Adventures in Ontario, Canada. With his extensive experience and expertise in motorcycling, Clinton has become a prominent figure in motorcycle education and safety. He is known for his passionate approach to teaching, emphasizing the importance of proper riding techniques, road awareness, and safety precautions. Through SMART Adventures, Clinton has helped numerous individuals enhance their motorcycling skills, whether they are beginners looking to learn the basics or experienced riders aiming to refine their techniques. His dedication to promoting safe and responsible motorcycling has made him a respected authority in the motorcycling community.
Web: SMART Performance Centre
DISCLAIMER: This segment is provided solely for informational purposes and should not be viewed as a substitute for formal rider training. It is highly recommended that you consult a certified professional trainer before attempting any of the discussed techniques, or proceed at your own risk. Canoe West Media, Adventure Rider Radio, SMART Adventures, SMART Performance Centre, and Clinton Smout accept no liability for any injuries or damages sustained, including but not limited to those affecting yourself, another individual, or a motorcycle. Your safety and the safety of others are of the utmost importance.
More RIDER SKILLS episodes at adventureriderradio.com/riderskills.