Tips for Deciding Which Motorcycle Brake to Use

Whether you've just embarked on your two-wheel journey or have been riding motorcycles for a while, one thing remains critical — understanding motorcycle braking.

Let's deep dive into this subject, ensuring you ride with safety, control, and precision every time.

The Basics of Motorcycle Braking

No, it's not just a simple squeeze of the lever. Braking involves a fine balance and understanding of your machine's mechanics.

Whether you're darting through city streets or exploring the countryside, knowing your brakes can be the difference between a safe stop and a nasty spill.

Products: What Makes Up the Braking System?

Brake Pads, Brake Rotors, and Brake Calipers — These components aren't just fancy terms; they're essential parts of your bike's braking system.

Ever wondered about those companies that manufacture these vital components?

Brands like Brembo, EBC Brakes, and Galfer lead the charge, ensuring bikers get maximum quality and effective techniques for their rides.

Tips for Using Motorcycle Brakes Effectively

Ever wondered why your bike's rear lifts when you jam the brakes?

Or why some seasoned riders barely touch the rear brake? Here's a compilation of brake wisdom.

Balancing Both Brakes

Always Use Both Brakes — It's what you were taught in your beginner's course, right?

And there's a reason.

By applying both brakes together, you distribute the stopping force, ensuring stability.

Think of it like trying to stop a see-saw; you wouldn't just jump off one side, would you?

The Dominance of the Front Brake

When a sudden obstacle appears (maybe a wandering sheep if you're in the countryside), your front brake is your go-to.

Transferring up to 80% of the bike's stopping power, it's like your bike's superhero cape. But, like every hero, it should be used wisely.

Jam it without caution, and you might end up doing an unintended somersault.

Mastering Gradual Braking

Imagine you're holding a cup of tea. You wouldn't slam it on the table, right?

A gentle touch ensures no spillage. Similarly, with brakes, a gradual squeeze keeps things smooth, especially as your bike's weight shifts forward.

Navigating Slow Speeds

Turning slowly in a crowded parking lot or making those tricky U-turns?

Here's where the rear brake is your best friend. And the front brake?

Well, it's a bit like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut. Too powerful.

Leveraging the Rear Brake for Control

Low-speed manoeuvres demand finesse, not force. It's a dance, and the rear brake sets the rhythm, helping you manoeuvre tight spots like a pro.

Evolution and Advancements in Braking Technology

The evolution and advancements in braking technology have been significant over the years.

The earliest form of automotive brakes were wooden block brakes, often seen in steam-driven automobiles and horse-drawn carriages.

The first control over vehicle movement was achieved using these brakes.

This rudimentary system allowed for direction control but had limitations, especially at speeds above 20 miles per hour. 

Emergency braking wasn't very effective with this technology.

An engineer named Gottlieb Daimler came up with the idea of mechanical drum brakes in 1899, leading to the creation of expanding internal shoe brakes.

These systems represented the foundation for modern automotive brakes.

However, it was the invention of hydraulic brakes in 1918 that marked a significant leap in braking technology.

These brakes required far less power to operate, and their effectiveness in both direction and speed control quickly made them an industry standard.

With the rise of ABS (Anti Lock Braking System), vehicles saw a tremendous increase in braking power, significantly reducing braking distance and minimising the risk of skids during emergency stops.

The innovation continued with the introduction of disc brakes, with components such as calipers and rotors.

These brakes primarily focused on the front brake to achieve maximum braking efficiency.

Motorcycle braking underwent similar advancements. As two-wheelers, motorcycles required special attention and effective techniques to ensure rider safety.

Factors like traction, weight distribution, and the motorcycle's setup played crucial roles in how a motorcycle behaves during braking, leading to the evolution of specialized braking systems for these vehicles.

Maintenance and Care for the Brake System

Just like any other machine, your motorcycle's braking system requires regular care and maintenance.

It's essential to routinely check brake fluid levels, inspect brake pads for wear, and ensure the brake lines are free from leaks or damages.

Proper maintenance not only prolongs the lifespan of your braking components but also guarantees optimum performance.

Common Mistakes in Braking and How to Avoid Them

Navigating the roads safely necessitates a keen awareness of proper braking techniques.

A multitude of mishaps arise from braking mistakes which can jeopardise safety.

By steering clear of these pitfalls, drivers significantly bolster their braking proficiency, leading to safer journeys and minimising roadway mishaps.

Factors to Consider When Selecting Brake Systems

Remember, not all brakes are made equal. Think of them like shoes; you wouldn't wear flip-flops for a marathon.

You'd pick based on the situation, evaluating factors like performance, durability, and reliability.

Consulting the Pros

Ever thought about asking for advice? Mechanics, engineers, and those daredevil professional riders have a wealth of insights.

They can recommend what's best, based on your riding style.

Test Different Systems

Before settling, give a few a go!

Places like racing tracks offer a controlled environment for testing.

It's like trying ice-cream flavours; you need to sample a few before finding your favourite.

Conclusion

Becoming proficient in motorcycle braking isn't just about safety—it's about enhancing the riding experience.

So, take a moment. Understand your brakes. And remember, every ride is a journey of learning.

Safe travels!