Which gear should a rider be in when coming to a stop?

When coming to a stop on a motorcycle, it is advisable to be in first gear. This allows the rider to maintain control of the motorcycle as they decelerate and eventually come to a complete stop. Being in first gear also enables a quick departure if needed, as it is the gear that provides the best response for immediate acceleration.

In first gear, the engine is able to assist in slowing the motorcycle down through engine braking, which can help prevent the wheels from locking up if the brakes are applied too hard. Additionally, being in first gear prepares the rider for quick maneuvering or stopping the motorcycle if a sudden need to restart riding arises, such as if a traffic light turns green or if a hazard appears.

While neutral may seem convenient to some riders, it does not provide the same level of control or responsiveness, as it disconnects the engine from the wheels entirely. Other gears, such as second or any that are higher, can also impede the ability to stop efficiently and can lead to a loss of control in situations where quick responses are necessary.

Thus, being in first gear when coming to a stop fosters better safety practices and bike handling.