Motorbike rear brake: why and when to use it

EVEN THOUGH MANY DON’T USE IT, THE REAR BRAKE IS ESSENTIAL FOR PROPER RIDING, ALMOST AS MUCH AS THE FRONT BRAKE. WHETHER IN TOURING OR SPORTY RIDING, IT CAN HELP IMPROVE STABILITY, CORRECT TRAJECTORY, AND CONTROL THE MOTORCYCLE. ANDREA MAIDA, A FORMER RIDER AND POPULAR SAFE DRIVING INSTRUCTOR, GIVES US SOME ADVICE.

FRONT OR REAR BRAKE? WHICH ONE TO USE?

In touring road riding, the rear brake should be used in combination with the front brake in a ratio of 80% to the front and 20% to the rear to maintain proper motorcycle balance.

When you need to slow down or stop, it’s important to use both brakes because they serve different purposes:

– The front brake stops the motorcycle.

– The rear brake stabilizes the motorcycle.

The technique used should be consistent, whether riding at high or low speeds, to make it an instinctive action.

WHERE IS THE REAR BRAKE OF THE MOTORCYCLE LOCATED?

The rear brake of the motorcycle, unlike the front brake, is a pedal. Both brakes are located on the right side of the motorcycle.

THE IMPORTANCE OF BRAKING CORRECTLY

Braking is crucial to avoid incorrect trajectory, and the rear brake is essential not only to help slow down but also to “adjust” turns. If you only use the front brake, the motorcycle’s weight will shift to the front, affecting steering.

The consequences, in many cases, might include imbalance, a messy trajectory, or even a potential fall.

HOW TO PROPERLY TAKE A TURN ON A MOTORCYCLE

– Before entering a turn, apply both brakes and downshift.

– Gradually release the brakes and lean the motorcycle into the turn.

– In case of excessive speed and loss of the turn point, maintain a slight pressure on the rear brake throughout the turn.

– Maintain a consistent speed.

– The use of the rear brake helps control the motorcycle and keep it stable, but this technique must become automatic.

– Taking a safe road riding course can help you become familiar with your motorcycle and make certain maneuvers instinctive so that you can act without thinking in case of danger.

MOTORCYCLE BRAKING WITH ABS

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is an assisted braking system that prevents wheel lock-up and has been mandatory on motorcycles since 2016. ABS prevents sudden wheel lock-up during abrupt braking.

Sensors are positioned on the wheels and communicate with the motorcycle’s central unit, which calculates the rotational speed of each wheel. In case of wheel lock-up during braking, the ABS engages and disengages the brakes rapidly. Preventing wheel lock-up reduces braking distances to avoid accidents.

This system can be critical in emergency braking situations, such as a pedestrian crossing suddenly or a car cutting across your path. When you instinctively grab the brake hard, the ABS will kick in.

However, be careful: if you don’t maintain the correct riding position during braking, you risk losing control and falling.

The devices on motorcycles (ABS, traction control, etc.) are of great help, but they don’t mean you’re safe from accidents.

USEFUL TIPS ON MOTORCYCLE BRAKING

– It’s advisable to begin braking with the rear brake to gauge the road surface’s grip. For example, in winter, this technique can help you understand if the road is icy, slippery, or dirty. Afterwards, brake with the front brake, paying attention to the intensity of the grab: the braking should be modulated and progressive.

– When you brake suddenly, a balanced motorcycle can become unstable suddenly due to the weight transferring to the front wheel.

– Remember that the front brake is more efficient on a motorcycle, but for more effective braking, you should use both brakes progressively.

– Gripping the front brake too aggressively can cause the tire to slip and lead to a loss of control (especially if the motorcycle is not equipped with ABS).

– Braking suddenly with the rear brake while cornering could immediately cause a loss of grip if you don’t have traction control or an inertial platform.

– For greater stability, use both brakes when the motorcycle is in an upright position and you’re riding in a straight line.

– The use of the rear brake in corners becomes important for handling adjustments, helping to close the curves and correct the trajectory.

– The rear brake is very useful in hairpin turns, tight corners, U-turns, or downhill turns. It’s especially useful when riding at low speeds (below 30 km/h).

These are useful tips, but you should try to put them into practice first in a large and empty area to become familiar with your motorcycle.

To learn all the techniques, we recommend taking a safe driving course with qualified instructors who can provide immediate feedback and help you internalize all the maneuvers.

MissBiker has selected a few schools, you can check the CONVENTIONS section.

A big thank you to Andrea Maida for the valuable advice included in this article.