What gear should you be in when coming to a stop and why?

When coming to a stop, being in first gear is the most appropriate choice because it prepares the motorcycle for an immediate start after stopping. First gear allows for greater control and responsiveness when you're ready to move again, especially in traffic or when navigating through intersections.

In first gear, the bike remains stable, and the engine provides a direct connection to the wheels, which assists in controlling the motorcycle’s speed and balance as you come to a complete stop. This readiness to accelerate away safely is especially important in situations where you may need to resume your ride quickly due to changing traffic conditions.

The option of being in neutral, while it could allow for easier maneuvering, takes away the readiness to move when the stop is completed, which can be critical in busy environments. Being in second or third gear may provide more stability when rolling, but they complicate the re-acceleration process after stopping and don't facilitate the immediacy required in many riding scenarios.