When your motorcycle engine seizes, what is the first thing you should do?

When your motorcycle engine seizes, the first action you should take is to squeeze the clutch lever and pull off the road. This is crucial because engaging the clutch allows you to disconnect the engine from the wheels, giving you control over the motorcycle. It reduces the risk of losing traction and helps prevent an accident as the motorcycle will coast to a stop rather than continue to be powered by the seized engine.

Pulling off the road is equally important for safety. By moving to a safe location, you reduce the risk of being struck by other vehicles and find a secure place to assess the situation. This action assesses the severity of the engine failure while ensuring your safety and the safety of other road users.

Considering the other options: accelerating or trying to get the engine running again could worsen the situation by causing the motorcycle to lose control. Turning on the hazard lights might be necessary once you are safely off the road, but it does not address the immediate issue of safely handling the motorcycle during an engine seizure. Shifting into neutral could be considered, but it is vital to first disengage the engine from the wheels by squeezing the clutch to ensure a safe stop. Thus, the best initial action to ensure safety and control is to squeeze the clutch lever and pull off