Question 1: What’s the proper technique for emergency braking?
Answer: Apply both brakes progressively but firmly. Maintain a straight line if possible, squeeze the tank with your knees for stability, keep your arms relaxed, and keep your eyes up—looking where you want to go. On loose surfaces like gravel, rear brake only may be safer to avoid front wheel washout.
Question 2: How do I brake effectively in a corner?
Answer: Ideally, complete all braking before entering a corner. If you must brake mid-corner, do so gently while the motorcycle is as upright as possible—primarily using the rear brake to avoid upsetting balance. Skilled riders may use trail braking, a gradual front brake technique that adjusts your line without abrupt inputs.
Question 3: How do I avoid rear wheel skids when braking?
Answer: Apply the rear brake progressively, not suddenly. Avoid stomping on it, especially as the motorcycle’s weight shifts forward during braking. On non-ABS bikes, develop a feel for the rear brake to detect when a skid might occur. A brief, slight skid isn’t always dangerous—but prolonged skidding can lead to loss of control.
Question 4: What is brake fade and how do I prevent it?
Answer: Brake fade happens when your braking system overheats, reducing its effectiveness. It’s more common during repeated hard braking or on older systems with drum brakes. Prevent it by using both brakes together, avoiding excessive pressure, allowing time between hard stops, and not “riding” the brakes downhill.
Question 5: How do I brake effectively on wet roads?
Answer: Use lighter, more progressive brake pressure and begin braking earlier than usual. Rely more on engine braking, increase your following distance, and be especially gentle when first applying the brakes. Try to ride in the tire tracks of vehicles ahead, where the road tends to be drier and less slick.
Question 6: What is ABS and how does it help motorcyclists?
Answer: ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) prevents wheel lock-up during hard or sudden braking by automatically modulating brake pressure. This helps you maintain steering control and improves stopping distances—especially on slippery or uneven surfaces. ABS is especially helpful in panic stops and for beginner riders.
Question 7: Can I still use progressive braking technique with ABS?
Answer: Yes—progressive braking is still the best technique. ABS is a safety net, not a replacement for skill. When you brake progressively, you gain better weight transfer and traction control, and you’re less likely to activate ABS unless you’re in a panic or slippery situation.
Question 8: Does using the front brake in a turn cause crashes?
Answer: Using the front brake abruptly while leaned over can cause the front wheel to lose traction, leading to a low-side crash. However, skilled riders use light, gradual front brake pressure—known as trail braking—to fine-tune their line mid-turn without upsetting the bike’s balance. Smoothness is key.
Question 9: How do linked or combined braking systems work?
Answer: Linked or Combined Braking Systems (CBS) apply some braking force to both wheels regardless of which brake control is used. This balances braking effort and improves stability. The rider still retains primary control, but the system ensures more effective braking, especially for new or casual riders.
Question 10: How do I practice emergency braking safely?
Answer: Practice in a wide, empty parking lot or controlled environment. Start at slow speeds (15–20 mph), then gradually increase. Focus on smooth, progressive brake application—not just stopping quickly. Practice using both brakes from different speeds, and consider placing cones or markers to measure improvement.
