Cornering

Cornering is the act of negotiating a turn while moving, a common topic in driving, cycling, and motorsports. The objective is to maintain control and a stable trajectory through the bend, achieving a smooth transition from entry to exit without loss of grip or excessive yaw.

The physics of cornering involve traction, load transfer, and curvature. The road must provide sufficient friction to generate centripetal force to keep the vehicle on a curved path; this friction is finite and decreases with speed, tire wear, and surface conditions. As speed and steering input change, weight transfers between wheels, altering grip. The steering angle, speed, and the chosen path through the bend determine the required radius and the line.

Techniques: The common goal is to minimize steering effort and keep the tires within their grip limits. The preferred line places the vehicle on a defined path through an apex, balancing entry, apex, and exit. Braking before or during early cornering—trail braking—can load the front tires for turn-in. The apex choice matters: early apex for quick direction change; late apex for faster exit and acceleration. Smooth steering, steady or progressive throttle, and looking through the turn help accuracy.

Considerations: Tire condition, road surface, weather, and banking influence grip. Bicycle cornering adds lean control and cadence; high-speed car cornering may involve stability systems that modulate torque and braking.

Safety and coaching: Practice in controlled environments, adjust for conditions, and respect speed limits. Regular inspection of tires, suspension, and brakes is essential to maintain predictable cornering performance.