When making a sudden stop on a motorcycle, what action is critical for safety?

Flashing your brake light is critical for safety when making a sudden stop on a motorcycle. This action serves as a clear signal to drivers behind you that you are slowing down rapidly. Motorcycles can stop more quickly than many cars, and drivers who are not aware of your intentions might not react in time if they don't see the warning. By activating your brake light, you enhance your visibility, giving other road users the opportunity to adjust their speed and maintain a safe distance.

In contrast, shouting to alert other drivers does not provide any useful signal regarding your actions and can be distracting. Taking a foot off the peg is not a necessary action for stopping; in fact, keeping your feet on the pegs helps maintain stability. Looking back to check for traffic can be important in some situations, but it takes your focus away from the stop itself, which is the priority when you need to stop quickly. Thus, the most effective way to ensure safety during a sudden stop is by flashing your brake light to communicate your intention to other road users.