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When to Use Rear Brake Only?

49517 Views 196 Replies 49 Participants Last post by  The_AirHawk
The heavier the bike and the lower teh center of gravity, the more rear brake can be used. Also, with a passenger, more rear brakes can be used for smoother stopping and less front end dive.



A good rule... the engineers aren't stupid, the size fo the brake is a good indicator of how hard it should be used. I beleive the rear brake surface area is less than 20% of the total braking surface.



When do I use only rear brake. At low speeds when trying to reduce the effects drivetrash lash at small throttle positions. I also mostly rear brake at low speed turns where the front brake can be grabby causing a loss of balance. Finally on loose surfaces I will favor the rear. For one reason, the rear tire is wider and therefore easier to control when sliding that the narrower front wheel.



For emergency stopping (I hate the term "panic stop". You never, ever panic on 2 wheels.) ... it's ALL front brake. Engine braking provides plenty of rear braking force... especailly on my BMW twin.
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Re: Wrong

I believe the '/sarcasm', also known as the sarcasm off tag is now copyrighted by the Harley Hating Brotherhood, Inc. Where is my royalty check?
Re: Wrong

Payment received.

You are hereby advised that you may officially carry on with your use of the term.
Re: Wrong

P.S. The use of Brotherhood copyrighted phrases in no way affiliates you with said Brotherhood. So, feel free to use away without fear of retribution from Harleyguardians.
Re: Ok. Good tip.

I'd like to second that. Great site. Where did you find?
Re: Ok. Good tip.

Ya think so?

I dont think so. I am sure it was brought to him by the Oracle at Delphi, or the great Oz or 1-800-PSYCHIC or anyone but that GMP charlatan.

I suppose I should rephase...

How is it that you came upon this site? Are you affiliated with them? or did you just stumble on it when searching for riding tips yourself?
1 - 5 of 197 Posts
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