What is the correct way to brake a motorcycle?

[DelKhloe]

1. The correct way to brake a motorcycle is as follows: 1. When at high speed, the braking force on the front wheel must be greater than that on the rear wheel. 2. At high speed, the braking force on the front wheel must not cause the front wheel to lock up. 3. When braking uphill, the braking force on the front wheel can be appropriately increased. 4. When braking downhill, the braking force on the rear wheel can be appropriately increased. 5. During emergency braking, the braking force should be slightly less than the force required to lock the wheels. 6. On slippery roads, the rear wheel should be braked before the front wheel. Below is a summary: First, release the throttle, straighten the bike, use the front brake as the main brake and the rear brake as the auxiliary, apply the rear brake first, then the front brake, and combine it with engine braking. Never lock the brakes completely; allow the wheels to rotate slightly rather than slide. The specific approach should be adjusted based on road and vehicle conditions. Note: It is best to use both brakes together because the front brake is primarily designed to assist the rear brake in achieving the shortest braking distance. Using only the front or rear brake alone will not achieve the shortest stopping distance; combining both is necessary for optimal braking performance.

[PaulDella]

I've been riding motorcycles for over 20 years, and mastering safe braking techniques is crucial. Under normal conditions, I habitually use both front and rear brakes simultaneously, with the front brake providing about 70% of the stopping power and the rear brake 30%, but the force should be applied progressively. Never brake abruptly, as this can cause the wheels to lock up and lead to loss of control. On slippery surfaces, brake more gently, distributing the force to ensure a smooth and even reduction in speed. Body posture is also key—keep your knees gripping the fuel tank, arms slightly bent naturally, and eyes focused ahead to anticipate hazards. When I was younger, I tried an emergency stop once and nearly fell; since then, I've practiced braking maneuvers for at least 10 minutes daily in open spaces. Different motorcycles have varying brake responses, so it's essential to familiarize yourself with your bike's characteristics. Regularly check brake pad wear and fluid levels to ensure the system operates efficiently. Braking isn't just about stopping—it's part of risk management. Remember, slowing down early can prevent 90% of accidents, and the joy of riding lies in these details.

[McAlice]

Hey, I've been riding motorcycles for three years and I think braking is quite nuanced. The correct method is to use both front and rear brakes together: the front brake is mainly for deceleration, while the rear brake assists in stability; avoid yanking the handle abruptly, instead smoothly increase pressure to prevent wheel lock-up. Rainy days are particularly tricky, so I reduce braking force by half and start braking a few seconds earlier. I always brake in clear visibility areas during rides, combining hand signals for early warnings, like slowing down when I see a red light in city traffic. Practice is super important—I’ve practiced emergency braking techniques in suburban areas to avoid skidding. From a safety perspective, maintaining balance is key; don’t lean forward too aggressively, keep your arms relaxed, and tire condition matters a lot—I regularly check tire pressure to ensure good traction. In short, proper braking isn’t just about technique; it’s about responsibility to yourself and others. A smooth stop can save lives, and I love that sense of control.

[SanAlaina]

When teaching riding, I emphasize that the braking steps are simple: first gently apply the rear brake, then evenly increase the front brake force; keep your body upright, grip the seat with your knees, and look ahead to anticipate obstacles. The front-to-rear brake ratio should be about 60-40%, and never lock the wheels—reduce force by 30% on slippery roads. The key is to practice more, simulating emergencies in an empty lot; anticipate before braking, such as slowing down early when approaching an intersection. Maintenance is also relevant—ensure the brake discs are clean and inspect them regularly.