What strategies can a rider employ to avoid an obstacle in the road?

Leaning away from an obstacle and accelerating if possible is an effective strategy for avoiding road hazards while riding a motorcycle. This technique helps maintain the motorcycle's balance and stability as you navigate past the obstacle. By leaning away from the obstacle, you shift your center of gravity, which can help you maneuver around it more smoothly. Accelerating as you do this can increase your control, allowing you to quickly clear the obstacle rather than potentially losing control of the bike, especially in tight situations.

In contrast, stopping immediately to assess the situation may lead to unintended consequences, as sudden stops can cause loss of control or lead to collisions with vehicles behind the rider. Using the brakes hard can also be risky; it may result in skidding or losing traction on the road, especially if the surface is slippery. Swerving unpredictably can lead to severe instability and increase the chances of an accident, making it a less viable option for avoiding obstacles. Therefore, the combination of leaning away and accelerating strategically is the most effective approach to navigate around obstacles safely.