Riding Tips: How to Optimize Your Braking Performance
1. Predictive braking
When riding, judging the road conditions ahead in advance can give you enough time and space to brake. Especially in congested traffic or complex road conditions, slowing down in advance and maintaining a reasonable distance can avoid the instability caused by emergency braking. Learn to observe the vehicles, pedestrians and traffic lights ahead to make your braking smoother and more efficient.
2. Reasonable distribution of front and rear brakes
Many novice riders tend to habitually use only the front brake or the rear brake, which may lead to uneven braking or excessive braking distance. In fact, a reasonable distribution of front and rear brakes can make the motorcycle stop more stably. In most cases, using a ratio of 70% front brake and 30% rear brake can achieve the best braking effect. Of course, the actual operation should be adjusted according to different road conditions.
3. Avoid sudden braking and practice progressive braking
Although sudden braking can stop the vehicle in a short time, it can easily cause the tires to slip or the motorcycle to lose balance. In order to improve braking performance, riders should learn progressive braking, that is, gradually increase the braking force instead of using all their strength at once. This not only keeps the vehicle stable, but also gives you more time to react, especially on slippery roads or at high speeds.
4. Regularly check and maintain the brake system
No matter how good your riding skills are, you can't do without a reliable braking system. Regularly check the wear of the brake pads and ensure that the brake discs and brake fluid are in the best condition to make your braking performance more stable. It is especially important to check the brake system in time after frequent riding or long-distance travel. If you find that the brake pads are severely worn or the brake feel becomes soft, it is best to replace or maintain it immediately.
5. Understand the braking skills under different road conditions
Different road conditions have different requirements for braking. On dry asphalt roads, motorcycles have a shorter braking distance, but on slippery or muddy roads, you need to start braking earlier and try to reduce sudden braking to avoid skidding. In addition, when riding on mountain roads, try to use engine braking (downshifting) as much as possible to reduce the burden on the brake system and prevent the brakes from overheating and failing.
6. Enhance braking perception
Another key to mastering the braking system is to perceive the braking force and the motorcycle's response. Through repeated practice, cultivating sensitivity to brake pressure can help you adjust the braking force more accurately under various road conditions. You can practice repeatedly on an open road, and find the braking method that best suits you and your vehicle by lightly stepping on and gradually applying pressure on the brakes.