MOTORCYCLE PRO GUIDE 9 - BRAKES

The ability to stop or slow a bike as quickly as possible is not only a performance riding must, it is a lifesaving skill.

In an extreme braking situation, the front brake provides the vast majority of the bike’s stopping power but, to optimise its grip, we need to progressively load weight onto the front tyre. This requires the rider to apply the front brake smoothly, progressively and quickly.

If the rider ‘grabs’ the brake without loading the tyre, the reduced traction will cause the wheel to lock and break traction. Even if the bike has ABS, it will activate the system and release the brake to prevent locking-up the wheel. In either case, stopping distance is compromised. The skill required involves timing the strength of the application with the loading of the tyre. If they are timed properly, the wheel will not lock up until the absolute extremes are met. This allows the rider to get the speed off at the fastest possible rate. The rear brake adds to the braking effort but also it risks locking up the rear wheel as the weight on this wheel is offl oaded to the front. The technique with the rear brake is to use it early and moderately, then smoothly release it as the weight comes off the rear tyre.

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