Dave
YaBB Moderator ModSquad
Offline
SuzukiSavage.com Rocks!
Posts: 18096
Camp Springs, Kentucky
Gender:
|
BSTN:
The use of brakes is a personal thing - and is something that progresses through a few stages as your riding ability changes.
1) Beginning riders use the rear brake almost exclusively, as it seldom creates any control issues at low speeds - and when used improperly the front brake can be scary! As their ability improves the use of the front brake hopefully becomes less scary, and they can start to realize the improved stopping power the front brake can provide. Still, a large number of falls occur when beginners use too much brake when the tire encounters some other slippery areas. I have also come to the conclusion after watching a lot of scooter crashes on YouTube - that a large number of riders don't realize the application of the front brake needs to be progressive, and that the initial squeeze needs to be light, and that more brake can be added as the weight transfers forward onto the tire - you just can't instantly "grab a handful" of front brake.
2) Intermediate riders understand how to apply the front and rear brake in unison - and the reward is better control and a shorter stopping distance.
3) Advanced riders come to understand that the front brake can provide nearly 100% of the stopping power that is needed. During very heavy braking there can be very little weight on the rear tire, and even a small amount of brake pedal during hard braking can result in locking up the rear wheel (which then leads to a problem with directional control when the rear of the bike tries to pass the front of the bike). This level may never be reached (or required) by the majority of riders, as they will never put themselves in a situation that requires very aggressive braking on purpose. I have avoided mentioning this "no rear brake" riding style on this forum, as I believe it is very much like a discussion on "counter steering" - you either understand it...or you don't.
|