18. Controlled braking

REAR BRAKE LESS EFFECTIVE AT HIGHER SPEEDS

The front brake is the more powerful brake, you must use it in a gentle and respectful manner. For a smooth and effective action on the brake, you should use all four fingers, use the fingertips for delicate control.  You must avoid snatching or grabbing the brake lever. Never panic brake or try to brake quickly if you are frightened, as this will result in significant problems. You should only use the front brake when the bike is travelling straight and should not be used in a corner. The rear brake is less effective at higher speeds. At higher speeds, you would generally use it in conjunction with the front brake when slowing down. However, if you need to slow down in a bend, you could use the rear brake on its own. As a general rule, you can use the rear brake on its own when riding slowly or turning the handlebars.

BOTH BRAKES

• Used together from high speed to low speed
• When the bike is in an upright position
• Travelling in a straight line

FRONT BRAKE ONLY

• Sometimes used as a warning to the traffic behind when reducing speed
• Only used when the bike is upright and travelling in a straight line
• Generally, the front brake is not used on its own as a means of slowing down or stopping

REAR BRAKE ONLY

• Slow control situations
• When steering the bike
• In a bend or corner

ENGINE BRAKING

• At the start of every slowing down manoeuvre
• In a corner
• Losing a few miles per hour in speed
• When it won’t affect any road users behind