What should a rider do if the rear wheel locks up during braking?

When a rider experiences a locked rear wheel during braking, the appropriate response is to immediately let go of the rear brake. This action is crucial because a locked rear wheel can lead to a loss of control, potentially causing the motorcycle to skid or drop. When the rear wheel is locked, the motorcycle is essentially sliding, and the rider loses the ability to steer effectively. By releasing the rear brake, the rider allows the wheel to start rotating again, which helps regain traction and control of the motorcycle.

While it may seem intuitive to hold the rear wheel in that position to stop more quickly, this actually leads to instability. Maintaining a locked rear wheel does not contribute to stopping sooner and can significantly increase the likelihood of an accident. Also, shifting weight forward is a tactic used in certain riding scenarios but is not the primary action to take in this situation. Applying the front brake can also be helpful depending on the situation, but it is not the best immediate solution when the rear wheel is locked.

In essence, letting go of the rear brake is the correct and safest action to take when confronted with a locked rear wheel, enabling the rider to regain control and respond effectively to the situation.