What should you do when encountering oil or fresh tar on the road?

When encountering oil or fresh tar on the road, the best approach is to avoid it if possible, proceed slowly, and avoid sudden movements. This is because both oil and tar create very slippery surfaces that can reduce traction for your motorcycle. Maintaining a slow speed helps in ensuring better control over the motorcycle and decreases the likelihood of skidding or losing balance. Sudden movements, such as sharp turns or quick acceleration, can result in a loss of traction, making it more difficult to control the motorcycle.

Opting to speed up might seem like a way to maintain control, but it can actually increase the risk of losing grip on the slick surface. Using only the front brake may lead to an imbalance in braking, especially on a slippery surface, which can cause the motorcycle to skid. Stopping and walking the motorcycle through can be an option, but it is typically not practical or safe in many situations and may expose the rider to more risk than necessary.

Thus, the safest strategy when facing oil or fresh tar is to remain cautious, manage speed, and maintain steadiness in your movements to keep control of the motorcycle.