Braking

Braking Basics

Compared to cars, motorcycles have two brake controls. One is the front brake, the other is the rear. When a motorcycle travels forward and begins to brake, the weight of the motorcycle moves forward, transferring more to the front wheel. More traction then becomes available to the front tyre as the contact with the road becomes larger with the increased weight. Because of this, more braking force can be applied to the front brakes.

Braking technique

To brake correctly, both the front and rear brakes need to be used. By applying the brakes a small amount immediately, then squeezing the lever progressively harder, you can prevent the front tyre from sliding out.
Be careful not to over-apply the rear brake, which could lead to your bike's rear wheel sliding out. Practice applying both brakes.

Braking whilst turning can be quite dangerous. Try and keep braking on corners to a minimum. It is best to slow down before entering the corner when the bike is upright.

To effectively stop a motorcycle you should develop a technique you can apply to all situations, whether emergency or not. There are many suggested techniques out there. One technique is quite simple, and comprises:

Right Hand

• Roll off the throttle
• Set-Up and progressively squeeze the front brake lever with all 4 fingers of the right hand.

Left Hand

• Squeeze the clutch lever to the handlebar and hold it.

Right Foot

• Set up and squeeze the rear brake (remember not too hard because most of the weight of the bike is now on the front tyre and the rear contact patch is getting smaller)

Left Foot

• Select the right gear for the speed. In an emergency, tap down through the gears before you stop.