10 ESSENTIAL Techniques for Proper Motorcycle Braking

Published: 5.10.23

Updated: 20.8.24

Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience.

The thrill of the open road, the wind on your face, and the sheer power of a bike beneath you can be unmatched.

But it's not just about speed and thrill – safety is paramount.

One of the most vital safety techniques every rider should master?

Braking. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, understanding the nuances of motorcycle braking can be a game-changer.

In this guide, we'll delve deep into the world of motorcycle braking, sharing tried and tested techniques to ensure you and others on the road stay safe.

Why Proper Braking Matters

Imagine you're cruising down a scenic highway. Suddenly, a car pulls out in front of you.

Your reaction time, combined with the effectiveness of your brakes, could make all the difference.

It's not just about avoiding accidents; it's about enhancing the overall riding experience.

Proper braking ensures smoother rides, better bike control, and reduced wear and tear.

1. The Two-Brake Rule

Both your front and rear brakes are pivotal in achieving the optimal brake control.

When executing a controlled stop, employ both brakes – the general rule is 70% front brake, 30% rear brake.

The stopping power of each is vital. But remember, while braking in a curve, rely more on the rear to prevent aquaplaning.

The Steps:

1. Position Hands and Feet: As you approach a stop, ensure your hands are gripping the handlebars and your feet are poised above both brakes.
2. Gauge the Situation: Assess the terrain and any possible hazards. Determine the urgency of the stop.
3. Apply Front Brake: With your right hand, gently squeeze the front brake lever using your index and middle fingers. This should account for roughly 70% of your total braking force.
4. Apply Rear Brake: Simultaneously, press down on the rear brake pedal with the ball of your right foot, contributing to the remaining 30% of braking force.
5. In Curves: If you're in a curve or turn, be cautious with the front brake. Prioritise the rear brake to avoid a loss of traction.

2. Master the Front Brake

The bulk of your braking performance comes from the front brake.

Your front brake controls are essential.

Use your index and middle fingers for a smooth, controlled application.

This isn't just a tap; it's about understanding the grip and ensuring maximum surface grip.

The Steps:

1. Hand Positioning: Ensure your index and middle fingers are resting lightly on the brake lever while the remaining fingers grip the handlebar.
2. Anticipate the Stop: Before applying the brake, always anticipate the stop and the distance required.
3. Gentle Squeeze: Start with a soft squeeze on the front brake lever. Avoid a sudden grasp as it can cause the wheel to lock.
4. Increase Pressure Gradually: As you continue to slow down, increase the pressure on the brake lever progressively until the motorcycle comes to a halt.

3. Understand the Rear Brake

The rear brake is indispensable when you need to make a sudden stop.

Your rear brake lever is crucial. Gently press with your right toe.

If you put too much stress on your transmission by pressing hard, you risk a skid.

The Steps:

1. Foot Positioning: Your right foot should be hovering over the rear brake pedal, ready to apply pressure when needed.
2. Apply Gentle Pressure: Start by gently pressing down on the brake pedal. Remember, the rear brake is more sensitive to pressure and can lock up with excessive force.
3. Feel the Resistance: Pay attention to the resistance you feel under your foot. If the brake starts to lock or the motorcycle begins to skid, ease off slightly.
4. Combine with Front Brake: For optimal stopping power, use the rear brake in tandem with the front brake, maintaining a balance based on your speed and terrain.

Related: Tips for Deciding Which Motorcycle Brake to Use

4. Synchronised Braking

For optimal braking performance, apply both brakes simultaneously, ensuring braking balance.

Ensure your motorcycle is upright and heading straight. It’s all about achieving the right braking approach between the two.

The Steps:

1. Position for Stopping: As you sense the need to brake, align your motorcycle to ensure it's upright and heading straight.
2. Engage Front Brake: Begin by applying a gentle squeeze on the front brake lever using your index and middle fingers.
3. Simultaneously Engage Rear Brake: While applying the front brake, press down gently on the rear brake pedal with your right foot.
4. Maintain Balance: Keep an even force between the two brakes, adjusting as needed based on the stopping urgency and the terrain.

5. Regular Practice and Training

Ever heard the phrase, "practice makes perfect?" It couldn't be more accurate here.

Find a safe spot and rehearse your braking. And if you're new to the scene, consider joining a motorcycle safety course. It’s not just about learning; it’s about refining and mastering.

The Steps:

1. Choose a Safe Spot: Identify a low-traffic area, like an empty parking lot or a quiet street, for practicing.
2. Start with Basics: Begin by practicing simple stops, focusing on balance and smooth brake application.
3. Vary Your Practice: Try braking from different speeds and under varied conditions to refine your skills.
4. Seek Professional Training: If you're new or wish to upskill, consider enrolling in a motorcycle safety course to learn from experienced trainers.

Related: Motorcycle Safety: A Beginner's Guide

6. Harness Engine Braking

Engine braking optimises your braking balance. Instead of relying solely on the brake pads, use the engine's resistance.

Disengage the throttle and squeeze on your clutch.

A swift downshift, paired with a gradual clutch release, can offer controlled deceleration.

Shift into lower gears, ensuring you reach the lowest gear if coming to a complete stop.

The Steps:

1. Anticipate the Slowdown: Before you need to reduce speed, anticipate the moment you'll employ engine braking.
2. Initiate Downshift: Gently shift your motorcycle into a lower gear.
3. Steady Clutch Release: As you downshift, gradually release the clutch lever, allowing the engine's resistance to slow you down.
4. Combine with Traditional Braking: For maximum control, combine engine braking with light application of your front and rear brakes.

Related: How to Shift Gears on a Motorcycle (THE RIGHT WAY)

7. Body Dynamics

Your body enhances front tyre grip and braking performance.

As you decelerate, especially when stopping in a straight line, lean forward marginally.

This minor shift can increase tire traction and improve the distance it takes to stop.

The Steps:

1. Stay Alert: As you anticipate the need to brake, be conscious of your body position.
2. Lean Forward: Begin slowing down by leaning your body slightly forward. This movement shouldn't be abrupt but rather a controlled shift.
3. Increase Front-Wheel Traction: The forward lean helps transfer more weight to the front wheel, increasing its traction and improving brake responsiveness.
4. Maintain Grip: Ensure your hands remain firmly on the handlebars and feet are positioned appropriately for potential brake application.

Related: How to Be a Responsible Motorcycle Rider

8. Emergency Braking Drills

Being ready for emergency brake situations can be the difference between a close call and an accident.

Start slow and escalate. In a high-side incident, the right braking techniques and understanding of grip can be lifesaving.

The Steps:

1. Find a Suitable Location: Choose a safe, open space, free from traffic and obstacles.
2. Start at Low Speed: Begin by practicing emergency stops from a low speed to get a feel for your bike's response.
3. Gradually Increase Speed: As you become more comfortable, incrementally raise your starting speed before initiating the emergency brake.
4. Repeat: Regular repetition is the key to mastering and maintaining this critical skill. The aim is to build muscle memory and confidence.

Common Emergency Braking Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Grabbing the Front Brake: This can cause the front wheel to lock up, potentially leading to a loss of control. Instead, apply the front brake progressively, increasing pressure smoothly.

2. Neglecting the Rear Brake: While the front brake provides most of the stopping power, the rear brake helps stabilise the bike. Use both brakes simultaneously for optimal stopping power.

3. Not Downshifting: Failing to downshift during emergency braking can leave you in a high gear when you need to accelerate quickly to avoid a hazard. Practice downshifting as you brake to ensure you're in first gear when you come to a stop.

4. Target Fixation: Looking directly at the hazard you're trying to avoid can lead to target fixation. Keep your eyes up and look where you want to go, not at what you're trying to avoid.

5. Improper Body Position: Sitting up straight or leaning back can reduce braking effectiveness and stability. Instead, grip the tank with your knees and keep your arms relaxed to maintain control.

6. Braking While Cornering: Applying brakes heavily while leaned over in a turn can cause the bike to stand up and run wide. If possible, straighten the bike before applying heavy brakes.

By avoiding these common mistakes and practicing correct emergency braking techniques, you'll be better prepared to handle unexpected situations on the road.

Remember, smooth and progressive application of both brakes, coupled with proper body positioning, is key to effective emergency braking.

9. The ABS Advantage

If you're fortunate enough to have ABS brakes, you’ve got an ace up your sleeve.

Anti-lock braking systems prevent the nightmare of wheel lock-ups, offering more than just good braking technique.

Especially during an emergency braking situation, the system kicks in, ensuring you remain upright and masterful.

The Steps:

1. Familiarise with ABS: Ensure you're aware of whether your motorcycle is equipped with ABS. Check your owner's manual if unsure.
2. Normal Braking: When braking in regular conditions, apply your brakes as you usually would. The ABS will engage automatically if a wheel starts to lock.
3. Feel the Pulse: If ABS activates, you might feel a pulsing sensation in the brake lever or pedal. This is normal, and it's the system modulating brake pressure to prevent wheel lock-up.
4. Stay Calm and Continue: Do not release the brakes if you feel the ABS kick in. Continue to apply pressure and let the system do its job.

10. Stay Updated

In the realm of motorcycle braking, advancements in brake assist types and techniques are perpetual.

Whether it's a new quick-stop braking technique or an understanding of how slope, such as rolling down steeper hills, affects braking distance, staying updated can give you the edge.

The Steps:

1. Engage with the Community: Regularly communicate with fellow riders, joining forums or local motorcycle groups.
2. Attend Workshops: Sign up for seminars or workshops that delve into the latest motorcycle technologies and safety protocols.
3. Stay Informed: Follow motorcycle blogs, magazines, or news sources to keep abreast of the latest innovations in braking systems and techniques.
4. Practice: As you learn new techniques or about new technologies, find time to practice and integrate them into your regular riding habits.

Understanding Brake Types

Motorcycles come equipped with either disc brakes, drum brakes, or a combination of both.

Knowing which type your bike uses can guide your braking technique:

1. Disc Brakes: These are commonly found on modern motorcycles, especially on the front wheel. They offer better stopping power and dissipate heat more efficiently. When pressing the brake lever, hydraulic fluid forces the brake pads against a rotor, slowing the bike.
2. Drum Brakes: Older or more basic motorcycles might have these, especially on the rear wheel. They involve brake shoes pushing out against the inside of a drum. They're generally not as efficient as disc brakes in heat dissipation and might fade during prolonged use.

Psychological Preparation for Emergency Braking

While mastering the physical techniques of emergency braking is crucial, the mental aspect is equally important.

Being psychologically prepared can make a significant difference in your ability to react effectively in high-pressure situations.

Understanding the Stress Response

When faced with a sudden emergency, your body's natural stress response kicks in, often referred to as the "fight or flight" reaction.

This can lead to:

• Tunnel vision
• Muscle tension
• Rapid breathing
• Impaired decision-making

Recognising these responses is the first step in managing them effectively.

Techniques for Staying Calm Under Pressure

1. Visualisation: Regularly visualise successful emergency braking scenarios. This mental rehearsal can help you react more calmly and effectively in real situations.

2. Controlled Breathing: Practice deep, controlled breathing. In an emergency, take a quick, deep breath to help maintain focus and reduce panic.

3. Positive Self-Talk: Develop a mantra or short phrase to repeat in stressful situations, such as "Stay calm, brake smooth."

4. Regular Practice: Consistent practice of emergency braking drills can build confidence and reduce anxiety in real emergencies.

Developing Mental Resilience

1. Accept Imperfection: Understand that no rider is perfect. Accepting this can reduce performance anxiety during critical moments.

2. Learn from Close Calls: Analyse near-miss incidents as learning opportunities rather than dwelling on them as failures.

3. Stay Present: Focus on the immediate task at hand rather than potential consequences. This helps maintain clear thinking and precise actions.

Building Confidence Through Knowledge

1. Understand Your Bike: Knowing your motorcycle's capabilities and limitations can boost confidence in emergency situations.

2. Study Accident Scenarios: Familiarise yourself with common accident scenarios and their solutions to feel more prepared.

3. Continuous Learning: Regularly update your riding skills through advanced courses or workshops.

By incorporating these psychological preparation techniques into your riding practice, you can enhance your ability to remain calm and focused during emergency braking situations.

Remember, a composed mind leads to more effective physical responses, potentially turning a crisis into a manageable situation.

Brake Maintenance

The condition of your brakes directly influences your safety.

Regular inspections and timely replacements are paramount.

1. Check Brake Pads: Inspect them for wear. Thin or unevenly worn brake pads can compromise your stopping power.
2. Monitor Brake Fluid: Ensure the fluid is at the recommended level and is clear. Dark or murky fluid might indicate contamination and calls for a change.
3. Inspect Brake Lines: Look for signs of wear, damage, or leaks. They are responsible for transmitting the force from your hand/foot to the brakes.

Advanced Braking Techniques for Sports Bikes

High-performance motorcycles require specialized braking techniques to maximise their capabilities and ensure rider safety.

These advanced methods can significantly improve your control and efficiency on sports bikes.

Trail Braking

Trail braking is a technique where you continue to apply brake pressure as you enter a corner, gradually releasing it as you lean the bike.

Key Points:

1. Begin braking while the bike is upright, before entering the turn.
2. As you lean into the corner, gradually reduce brake pressure.
3. Release the brakes completely before reaching the apex of the turn.

Benefits:

• Allows for later braking points
• Helps set up the correct entry speed for corners
• Improves overall control and stability during cornering

Caution: Trail braking requires practice and should be learned in a controlled environment, as it can be risky if not executed properly.

High-Speed Stops

Sports bikes are capable of reaching high speeds quickly, making efficient high-speed braking crucial.

Technique:

1. Squeeze the front brake lever progressively, avoiding sudden grabbing.
2. Use your body weight to counteract forward momentum by pushing against the handlebars.
3. Gradually increase brake pressure as the bike's weight shifts forward.
4. Modulate the rear brake to maintain stability, but focus primarily on the front brake.

Tips:

• Keep your arms relaxed to absorb shocks and maintain control.
• Look ahead to where you want to stop, not at the ground immediately in front of you.

Brake Pad Management

Sports bikes often use high-performance brake pads that require specific management:

1. Proper Bedding: New brake pads need to be properly bedded in to achieve optimal performance.
2. Heat Management: High-performance pads work best within a specific temperature range. Avoid overheating through proper cool-down periods.
3. Regular Inspection: Frequently check pad wear, as sports bike pads may wear faster due to more aggressive use.

Slipper Clutch Utilization

Many modern sports bikes are equipped with a slipper clutch, which can aid in braking:

1. The slipper clutch helps prevent rear wheel hop during aggressive downshifting.
2. It allows for more aggressive engine braking without destabilizing the bike.
3. Practice coordinating downshifts with front brake application to maximize stopping power.

Two-Finger Braking Technique

Some sports bike riders prefer the two-finger braking technique:

1. Use your index and middle fingers for brake lever control.
2. This allows for finer brake modulation and keeps your hand in a better position for throttle control.
3. However, ensure you can apply sufficient brake pressure with this method before relying on it.

Mastering these advanced braking techniques can significantly enhance your control and performance on a sports bike.

However, always practice these methods in a safe, controlled environment before applying them on public roads or tracks.

Remember, with great power comes great responsibility – respect the capabilities of your sports bike and always prioritize safety.

Environmental Factors and Braking

Road conditions can significantly impact braking performance. It's essential to be aware and adapt:

1. Wet Roads: Rain can make roads slippery. Increase your braking distance and apply brakes gently.
2. Gravel or Loose Surfaces: These can reduce traction. Be cautious and avoid sudden braking actions.
3. Cold Weather: Tyres might not grip as well on cold tarmac. It’s wise to give your tyres some time to warm up by riding gently for the first few minutes.

In Conclusion

Braking isn't just a function; it's an art. And like all arts, it demands understanding, practice, and continual learning.

As riders, our journey isn't just about the destinations we reach but also about the skills we pick up along the way.

So, whether you're navigating city streets or winding country roads, remember – mastering your brakes isn't just about safety; it's about truly unlocking the joy of riding.

Safe travels and happy riding!

FAQs

Why do motorcycles have two separate brakes?

Motorcycles are equipped with two separate brakes – one for the front and one for the rear – to offer riders enhanced control and stability. By having the ability to use each brake independently, riders can adapt to different situations and terrains, ensuring safer manoeuvring, especially in emergency situations.

How often should I inspect and replace my motorcycle's brake pads?

Regular inspection of brake pads is crucial for safety. Generally, it's recommended to check them every 20,000 miles. However, if you frequently ride in urban areas or harsh conditions, more frequent checks might be needed. When the brake pad material wears down to 2mm or less, it's time for a replacement to ensure optimal braking performance.

Are there different braking techniques for wet or slippery conditions?

Yes, wet or slippery conditions demand extra caution. While the fundamental techniques remain the same, riders should apply brakes more gradually, ensuring they don’t lock up. Increasing the following distance and being extra observant helps in safely navigating such conditions.

Can advanced braking systems, like ABS, make me a lazier or less attentive rider?

While advanced braking systems like ABS provide an added layer of safety, they shouldn't replace good riding habits. ABS is a tool, not a crutch. Riders should still practise safe braking techniques and remain attentive at all times. Relying solely on technology can lead to overconfidence, which isn't ideal for road safety.