What should you do if the wheel locks and skids?

What should you do if the wheel locks and skids?

• A. Apply the brakes harder to regain traction immediately.
• B. Release pressure on that brake to get the tire rolling, then immediately reapply the brake with controlled gradual pressure.
• C. Let the wheel skid until it grips naturally.
• D. Shift weight and try to ride out the skid.

Answer: (B)

When a wheel locks, you lose traction and your ability to steer effectively. The way to recover is to ease off the brake on that wheel just enough to let it roll again. Once the tire starts to roll, reapply the brake with smooth, gradual pressure to avoid another lock and to regain traction. Braking harder or letting the wheel skid longer only makes the skid worse and reduces control, and simply riding it out won’t restore traction or steering. Shifting weight can help with balance, but the critical move is releasing briefly to roll, then applying steady, controlled braking.

When a wheel locks, you lose traction and your ability to steer effectively. The way to recover is to ease off the brake on that wheel just enough to let it roll again. Once the tire starts to roll, reapply the brake with smooth, gradual pressure to avoid another lock and to regain traction. Braking harder or letting the wheel skid longer only makes the skid worse and reduces control, and simply riding it out won’t restore traction or steering. Shifting weight can help with balance, but the critical move is releasing briefly to roll, then applying steady, controlled braking.