Your Guide to Motorcycle Braking

Riding a motorcycle is fun and adventurous, but you should take extra precautions to stay safe on the road. In addition, you want to master a few skills so you can ride your model comfortably and confidently.

Braking is an essential motorcycle riding technique that every rider must practice before hitting the road. This can go a long way in keeping you safe and boosting your riding experience. Here are a few things to consider when applying brakes to your bike.

Brake According to the Situation

Avoid applying both the front and rear brakes simultaneously, and make the most of your bike’s front brake power instead. Ensure that your front brake offers your motorcycle 70% of its stopping power and the rear brake gives the remaining 30% for a smoother decelerating experience.

Adjust Your Weight

Seasoned motorcyclists will advise you to push most of your weight, including your motorcycle's weight, onto its front wheel and suspension when braking. This essential technique can help compress the front forks and improve your tire's on-road traction.

Avoid Locking Up Your Rear Wheel

Sometimes, many beginner riders end up locking their rear wheel and causing their motorcycle to skid. This is a dangerous situation, as you might slide into the path of an oncoming vehicle or collide with an obstacle.

To prevent this, avoid applying sudden brakes to your rear wheel and instead stay focused and release your pressure on the rear brake gradually and steadily.

Use Your Mirrors

Your motorcycle’s mirrors help keep tabs on the surrounding traffic conditions. You should not apply brakes without considering the distance between you and other vehicles around you. Your mirrors can help you do that—so use them to make your braking experience smoother and uneventful.

We hope these tips come in handy when you are riding a motorcycle. For advice or help upgrading your bike to the latest model, visit Timms Harley-Davidson® of Anderson. We have a fine selection of motorcycles for sale, and we can help you select a model that suits your budget and unique riding style. Our dealership is in Anderson, SC, so swing by today.