Braking in motorcycle – All expert tips for bikers

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Long story short: Stay ahead with our effective braking tips and techniques for Indian motorcycles. Learn how to handle your bike safely in any situation.

Motorcycle riding is a popular and affordable mode of transportation in India, offering convenience. However, mastering motorcycle braking techniques and tips for front and rear brakes cannot be overstated with the increasing number of motorcycles, poor roads, and road traffic. Effective braking ensures rider safety, prevents accidents, and enhances the riding experience. So, it’s time to delve into the significance of learning braking techniques, understanding motorcycle braking dynamics and essential motorcycle braking tips for riders in India in various conditions and situations.

Key Takeaways

1. Effective braking ensures rider safety, prevents accidents, and enhances the riding experience.The front brake is responsible for most stopping power, typically around 70%, while the rear brake aids in stability and control, contributing about 30% of the braking force.
2. The front brake provides the most stopping power in dry conditions, while the rear brake aids stability and control. The optimal braking ratio is 60% front and 40% rear or 70% front and 30% rear.
3. Wet conditions significantly reduce tyre traction, making smooth and controlled braking even more critical. Both brakes are essential, but they should be used with a gentler touch to avoid skidding. The optimal braking ratio is 40% front and 60% rear.
4. To ensure safe riding on Indian roads, riders should train regularly in controlled environments to build muscle memory, practice scenario-based braking for emergencies, slopes, and wet surfaces, and apply progressive braking to prevent skidding.
5. Effective braking also involves coordinating front and rear brakes, using about 70% front and 30% rear, or shifting to 90%-10% in emergencies. Additionally, engine braking helps maintain control, while proper body position and weight transfer improve stability.

Understanding motorcycle braking dynamics

1. Front and Rear Brake Utilisation

The front brake is responsible for most stopping power, typically around 70%, while the rear brake aids in stability and control, contributing about 30% of the braking force. In emergencies, the front brake’s contribution can increase to 90%, with the rear brake providing the remaining 10%.

2. Weight Transfer

When braking, the motorcycle’s weight shifts forward, increasing the load on the front wheel and enhancing its braking efficiency. This phenomenon, known as weight transfer, is crucial for effective braking.

3. Throttle Control

Proper throttle control is essential before initiating braking. Smoothly reducing throttle input helps stabilise and prepare the motorcycle for effective braking.

Braking Techniques for Different Conditions

1. Braking in Dry Conditions (60% front and 40% rear)

The front brake provides the most stopping power in dry conditions, while the rear brake aids stability and control. The optimal braking ratio is 60% front and 40% rear or 70% front and 30% rear. This distribution leverages the increased grip on the front tyre due to weight transfer during braking while rear stabilising the motorcycle.

Key Points:

1. Front Brake Dominance: The brake disc is more prominent in diameter on the front side, so it does the braking duties much more. So, slightly more braking force is given to the front.
2. Do not apply the front brake only: Applying only the front brake without using the rear brake causes the motorcycle to shake violently.
3. Do not apply the rear brake only: Applying only the rear brake without using the front brake causes the motorcycle to fishtail violently at the bike’s rear end.

2. Motorcycle braking in Wet Conditions (40% front and 60% rear)

Wet conditions significantly reduce tyre traction, making smooth and controlled braking even more critical. Both brakes are essential, but they should be used with a gentler touch to avoid skidding. The optimal braking ratio is 40% front and 60% rear. The rear brake provides slightly more stopping power in wet conditions, while the front brake aids stability and control.

Key Points:

1. Gentle braking and slow Speed: Apply the brakes smoothly to avoid locking the wheels. The initial bite is less in wet conditions, so be prepared for a longer stopping distance.
2. Apply rear brake first: Apply rear brake first and then only apply the front brake.
3. Do not apply the front brake only: Applying only the front brake without using the rear brake causes the motorcycle to skid.
4. Do not apply the rear brake only: Applying only the rear brake without using the front brake causes the motorcycle to turn 180 degrees.

3. Motorcycle braking in Sudden / Panic situations

The goal is to stop the motorcycle quickly and safely in emergencies. This requires both brakes, focusing on the front brake while avoiding abrupt movements that could lead to skidding.

Key Points:

1. Do not focus on the colliding object: Do not try to focus on the object you are about to collide. Instead, focus on the object’s sides or escape areas and routes.
2. Try to hug the fuel tank tightly: Using your knees or thighs, try to hug the tank tightly to stabilise the motorcycle.
3. Use pump braking method: In non-ABS bikes, use the pump braking method to reduce the impact of speed and downshift gears. Use a clutch for all gears separately instead of continuously downshifting so that engine braking is also used.
4. Avoid unexpected acceleration using a slight brake lever tweak: We unexpectedly give throttle while braking during panic braking. Adjust the brake lever slightly lower than the accelerator to avoid this, as per the image below.

Additional tips for effective braking in motorcycles

1. The Two-Brake Rule

The front and rear brakes are pivotal in achieving optimal brake control. Riders should apply both brakes simultaneously to ensure braking balance and effectiveness. This synchronised braking approach helps maintain stability and reduce stopping distances.

2. Progressive Braking

Progressive braking involves gradually increasing brake pressure to avoid skidding and maintain control. This technique ensures smoother rides and better bike control. Riders should avoid abrupt braking, especially in emergencies, to prevent loss of grip and stability.

3. Engine Braking

Engine braking involves using the engine’s resistance to slow down the motorcycle. This technique can be instrumental in maintaining control and reducing wear on the brake components.

4. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

ABS significantly advances motorcycle safety, preventing wheel lockup during braking and allowing riders to maintain control, especially on slippery surfaces. ABS is highly recommended for motorcycles with higher displacement and power output.

5. Regular Maintenance

Regularly checking and maintaining brake pads, discs, and fluid levels ensures optimal braking performance. Well-maintained brakes are less likely to fail and provide consistent stopping power.

6. Adaptability to Different Terrains

Different terrains require unique braking approaches. Gravelly paths demand gentle braking to avoid skidding, while wet roads require extra braking distance and cautious application of brakes.

7. Body Position

Maintaining a proper body position, such as keeping the body upright and centred, helps manage the motorcycle’s stability during braking.

8. Practice

Regular practice of braking techniques, especially emergency braking, helps develop muscle memory and improve reaction times. Practising in a safe, controlled environment can significantly enhance a rider’s braking skills.

What are the specific methods for practising effective braking techniques in India?

Considering the unique challenges of road conditions, traffic density, and weather, practising effective braking techniques is crucial for motorcycle safety in India. Here are specific methods recommended by experts:

1. Regular Practice in Controlled Environments

Experts strongly advise riders to practice braking techniques regularly in safe, controlled environments. This approach allows riders to develop muscle memory and improve reaction times without the risks of real traffic situations.

2. Scenario-Based Practice

It’s essential to practice various braking scenarios that mimic real-world conditions. This includes:

1. Emergency braking
2. Braking on slopes
3. Braking in wet conditions
4. Braking on different road surfaces (e.g., gravel, uneven surfaces)

3. Progressive Braking Technique

Practice applying brake pressure gradually to avoid skidding and maintain control. This technique is fundamental in varying road conditions, such as wet or gravelly surfaces.

4. Front and Rear Brake Coordination

Practice using both front and rear brakes simultaneously, understanding that the front brake typically provides about 70% of the stopping power. In comparison, the rear brake contributes around 30%. This ratio can shift to 90% front and 10% rear in emergencies.

5. Engine Braking Practice

Incorporate engine braking into practice sessions. This technique involves using the engine’s resistance to slow down the motorcycle, which helps maintain control and reduce wear on brake components.

6. Body Position and Weight Transfer

Practice maintaining proper body position during braking, keeping the body upright and centred. Learn to shift weight forward during harsh braking to maximise front tyre grip and maintain stability.

7. ABS Familiarization

For motorcycles equipped with Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS), practice braking in various conditions to understand how the system feels and responds.

8. Wet Weather Braking

Dedicate practice sessions to damp weather conditions, focusing on gentler braking approaches and adjusting the braking ratio to 40% front and 60% rear to prevent skidding.

How can a rider adjust their braking approach for different types of motorcycles in India?

Different types of motorcycles require adjusted braking techniques due to their varying weight distributions and designs. Here’s how riders can adapt their braking approach based on motorcycle type:

1. Sport Bikes

1. These motorcycles are typically front-biased, carrying more weight on the front wheel.
2. Riders should use the front brake more aggressively, as it provides the most stopping power.
3. Complement front brake usage with the rear brake to maintain balance and control.
4. Practice progressive braking to avoid front-end dive and potential loss of control.

2. Cruiser Bikes

1. Cruisers tend to be rear-heavy, which affects braking dynamics.
2. Apply both brakes, but utilise the rear brake more effectively to reduce stopping distances.
3. The rear brake plays a more significant role throughout the braking process than sport bikes.
4. Practice smooth, progressive braking to maintain the bike’s stability.

3. Scooters

1. Many scooters in India come with linked braking systems.
2. Practice using the front or rear brake lever, understanding that the system automatically applies both brakes.
3. This system is particularly effective in maintaining balance and reducing stopping distances.
4. Focus on smooth, gradual brake application to maximise the benefits of the linked system.

4. Commuter Motorcycles

1. These bikes often have a more balanced weight distribution.
2. Practice using both brakes evenly, slightly emphasising the front brake.
3. Practice anticipating longer stopping distances for models with drum brakes, especially at the rear.

5. Adventure Bikes

1. These motorcycles are designed for varied terrains.
2. Adjust braking techniques for different surfaces (e.g., tarmac, gravel, mud).
3. Utilise ABS if equipped, but also practice with ABS for off-road scenarios.

6. Touring Bikes

1. Given their heavier weight, practice smooth, progressive braking to manage the bike’s momentum.
2. Utilise both brakes effectively, emphasising the front brake for maximum stopping power.
3. Practice braking with luggage or a pillion to understand how added weight affects braking dynamics.

For all motorcycle types, it’s crucial to adapt braking techniques to Indian road conditions:

1. Adjust the braking ratio to 40% front and 60% rear in wet conditions to prevent skidding.
2. Use gentler braking with more emphasis on the rear brake on gravel or uneven surfaces for stability.
3. In emergencies, use both brakes with a focus on the front brake, avoiding abrupt movements to prevent skidding.

FAQ related to motorcycle braking

1. How to increase the life of the rear brake in a motorcycle?

When we ride with our foot on the rear brake pedal, the brake is activated throughout the ride. If the brake is disc-type, this damages the M/C kit, and in the drum brake, the lining gets damaged. So either you must keep your foot aside, or there should be free play for the rear brake pedal.

2. Why is a groove present on the brake lever of the new-gen motorcycles?

This groove is not a style aspect but a safety measure in case of accidents. This groove causes the brake lever to break and will protect our hands/ fingers from injury. That is the sole purpose of this groove.

3. How should I adjust my weight while braking?

Riders should shift their weight forward during tough braking to maximise front tyre grip and maintain stability.

4. How can I avoid locking up the rear wheel while braking?

To avoid locking up the rear wheel, apply the rear brake gently and release pressure immediately if a skid occurs.

5. What is engine braking, and how is it used?

Engine braking reduces speed by closing the throttle while the bike is in gear, allowing engine drag to slow the bike down. It is beneficial during long descents.

6. Are there different motorcycle braking techniques or tips for wet or slippery conditions?

Yes, applying brakes more gently and progressively in wet or slippery conditions is crucial to avoid skidding and maintaining control.

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Conclusion

We have discussed various details in depth that should be considered in the field of motorcycle braking, such as tips, techniques, etc., in India. If you have any other doubts or queries, email us at bikeleague2017@gmail.com or share your doubts or opinions in the comments section below. We are always eager to help and assist you. Also, here are several social media platforms of Bikeleague India to raise your suspicions.