After releasing the rear brake during a rear-wheel skid, what should you do next?

• A. Reapply pressure.
• B. Release the brakes completely and coast.
• C. Downshift to first and accelerate.
• D. Turn the handlebars away from the skid.

Answer: (A)

The important idea is to regain control by restoring traction through controlled braking. When the rear wheel starts to skid, you first release the brake to stop the wheel from sliding. Once the tire has a grip again, you reapply braking pressure in a smooth, gradual way to continue slowing without locking the wheel again. Coasting or abrupt actions like downshifting or jerky steering won’t help stabilize the bike; the key is to restore and then maintain braking control as traction returns.