How To Survive Alpine Switchbacks On Your Motorcycle

Their names are infamous—Pordoi, Sella, Gavia, Gardena, and of course Stelvio. Riding these epic Alpine passes is not for the faint of heart or the weak of skill. More than a few American riders have found themselves under-equipped for the technically challenging hairpins of Italy's most spectacular roads, but with a little knowledge and pre-trip cornering practice you can tackle wicked Alpine passes with enthusiasm, rather than dread.

You’ll need to be confident looking ahead, judging entry speed, selecting effective cornering lines, and leaning the heck out of your bike. Practice in a parking lot pays off in the mountains.

You will need excellent slow-speed control to prevent mid-corner tip-overs on the countless tight “slower than first gear” switchbacks. Maintain stability using steady clutch and throttle control. The tightest turns may require some rear brake and counterweighting.

On the way up, gravity works in your favor, helping you slow for turns. Minimize instability by getting on the gas early but not so early that you run wide.

Riding downhill, gravity works against your attempts to scrub speed. This means you need to brake with greater force. To be safe, brake earlier so you can brake with less intensity.

Help your motorcycle turn by braking past the turn-in point then tapering (trailing) off the brakes as you lean more. Hold light brake pressure until the bike is pointed around the turn before fully releasing.

Apply the rear brake just before the front to minimize forward pitch and keep the wheels in alignment. Maintain light pressure on the rear binder for a moment after releasing the front brake to help “hook” the bike around turns.

Gradually accelerate as soon as the bike approaches mid-corner to maintain speed and stabilize the chassis. Well-timed acceleration ensures a predictable path of travel.

Smoothly release the brake while simultaneously rolling on the throttle to avoid abruptness that can squander traction and cause your bike to exit wide.

You’ll be sharing narrow roads with slow-moving buses and incredibly quick bicycle riders. Look well ahead and plan accordingly to avoid a collision. With a little forethought, you can help others enjoy their alpine ride just as much as you are.