What is the main purpose of maintaining traction while riding?

Maintaining traction while riding is essential for enabling safe cornering and stopping. Traction is the grip between the tires of the motorcycle and the road surface, which directly affects handling and control. When a rider maintains proper traction, they can navigate turns at appropriate speeds without losing control or skidding. Similarly, adequate traction is vital when applying brakes, as it allows for effective stopping power. Insufficient traction can lead to dangerous situations, such as slipping or falling, especially in adverse weather conditions or on slippery surfaces.

The other options, while related to riding, do not capture the critical safety aspect associated with traction. For instance, increasing fuel efficiency pertains more to the motorcycle's operational habits rather than the immediate control needed during cornering or stopping. Enhancing performance and performing tricks could be byproducts of good traction, but they are not the primary reasons for its importance while riding. Safe riding primarily focuses on the ability to maneuver effectively and stop suddenly when necessary, making traction a foundational element of motorcycle safety.