Multiple Curves and
Lane Changes
What happens in Exercise 12 of the MSF BRC — linking multiple curves, proper lane change procedure with head checks, managing transitions, and 360° traffic awareness at higher speeds.
Exercise 12 starts putting the whole picture together. Instead of practicing one skill in isolation, you're now stringing multiple curves together and adding lane changes — simulating the continuous decision-making flow of actual road riding.
By Exercise 12 most students are riding with significantly more confidence than Day 1. The goal here is to build smooth, automatic habits for scanning, positioning, signaling, and transitioning — so these become second nature before you ride off the range on your own.
What You'll Practice in E12
Linking Curves: The Transition
When two curves follow each other — a left into a right, or a right into a left — the exit of the first curve sets up the entry of the second. Between them there's usually a brief straight section. The scan-ahead visual habit that served you in the cone weave (Exercise 5) — looking two or three targets ahead rather than at what's immediately in front — applies here just as directly: you should be identifying the second curve's entry point while you're still leaning through the first.
Begin scanning the next curve during the first
Look ahead while still in the first curve. Identify curve type, entry point, and any hazards in the second turn.
Stand the bike up between curves
As you exit the first curve, let the bike stand upright. This brief moment lets you adjust speed, lane position, and prepare for the next lean direction.
Enter the second curve from the correct setup position
Apply Search-Setup-Smooth independently to each curve. Each turn gets its own setup, not just the first one in the series.
Maintain smooth throttle throughout
Consistent, light throttle through curves and clean roll-off/roll-on transitions keep the suspension stable and predictable through multi-curve sections.
The Lane Change Sequence
Every lane change on a motorcycle requires a complete five-step sequence. Shortcuts cause crashes. On the skills test, your evaluator is watching for each step.
Check mirrors
Scan your mirrors for following traffic before signaling. Know what's behind you.
Signal
Activate your turn signal in the direction of the intended lane change.
Head check (blind spot check)
Physically turn your head and look into the blind spot in the direction you're moving. Mirrors cannot cover this area. A full head turn is required — a glance isn't enough.
Move smoothly
If the path is clear, make a smooth, deliberate lane change. No sudden swerves. Keep your speed consistent.
Cancel signal
Once in the new lane, cancel your turn signal.
Why the Head Check Can't Be Skipped
A typical motorcycle mirror setup has a significant blind spot on each side — large enough to hide an entire vehicle. Riders who rely only on mirrors will eventually not see a car that's right next to them. The head check eliminates that blind spot. It's a habit that must become automatic before you ride on public roads.
Common E12 Mistakes
- • Skipping the head check — mirrors are not enough. Turn your head.
- • Not setting up early enough for the second curve in a multi-curve section
- • Chopping the throttle between curves — maintain smooth, consistent power
- • Taking early apexes on the second curve because you were still focused on the first
Gearing Up After the Course?
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Related Exercises
- 11Exercise 11: Curve Judgment
E11 builds the cornering eye and entry strategy that E12 strings together across linked curves.
- 5Exercise 5: Cone Weave
The scan-ahead visual habit from E5's cone weave is the same skill needed to link curves in E12.
This exercise is one of 14 practiced in the MSF Basic Rider Course at Tampa Motorcycle Training — a two-day beginner program held at our Zephyrhills range. It builds directly on Exercise 11: Curve Judgment. Once you complete it, the course moves on to Exercise 13: Obstacle Crossing & Swerve.
These exercises are exactly what you'll practice in the MSF Basic Rider Course in Tampa Bay at our Zephyrhills range. Ready to experience them firsthand? Book a Tampa Bay motorcycle class — max 8 students, weekday $189 · weekend $198.
Tampa Motorcycle Training — Zephyrhills, FL
Serving Tampa Bay, Wesley Chapel, Land O' Lakes, and Pasco County. Max 8 students. Call (813) 670-7334.