You could be watching MCrider videos ad-free. Find out how.
If you are an ad-free member make sure to log in to see your ad-free video.
Hey guys, Kevin here with MCrider, where we focus on road skills and road strategy to make you a better rider.
This week on MCrider, we’re covering one of the most fundamental motorcycle safety skills you can develop—braking. We’ll look at what many riders get wrong, what happens when they do, and, most importantly, how to get it right. I’ll also share some drills you can take to the parking lot to practice safe, effective braking.
A Common Mistake: Favoring One Brake Over the Other
One of the biggest mistakes I see riders make is favoring one brake and ignoring the other.
- Some riders say, “I only use the rear brake.”
- Others brag, “I only use the front.”
Both approaches are wrong.
Your motorcycle has two brakes for a reason—each plays a unique role. When used together, they give you maximum stopping power and control.
What Happens If You Only Use One Brake?
Let’s look at both extremes:
Rear Brake Only
Relying solely on the rear brake increases your stopping distance and reduces your ability to stop quickly in emergencies. It's also easier to lock up, especially in a panic situation.
Front Brake Only
Using only the front brake can cause instability—especially if you’re not smooth. You’ll experience strong weight transfer, which can lead to a front-wheel lock if you’re too aggressive or inexperienced.
Parking Lot Practice: Building Your Braking Skills
If you’re new to emergency braking or just want to fine-tune your control, here’s a safe practice routine:
- Start at low speeds—around 15 to 20 MPH.
- First, use just the rear brake. Feel its limitations and how long it takes to stop.
- Next, try just the front brake. Notice the weight transfer and practice modulating pressure smoothly.
- Once you’re comfortable with each, combine both brakes for maximum stopping power—just like you should on the street.
Key Braking Tips to Remember
- Keep your head and eyes up—look across the parking lot, not down at the front tire.
- Use your knees to grip the tank.
- Squeeze the clutch as you progressively squeeze the front brake. (Don’t grab it!)
- Apply gentle rear brake pressure—don’t stomp on it.
- Downshift to 1st gear as you come to a stop.
- Finish with the handlebars straight and your left foot down first.
Want to Go Deeper?
If you’ve got the MCrider Field Guide, we’ve got detailed braking exercises starting on page 16. These step-by-step drills are designed to help you build confidence and skill in a controlled environment.
Members of MCrider get access to even more:
- Full forums and rider community
- A digital version of the Field Guide for use on any device
- A printed Field Guide with select memberships
- Ad-free training videos and much more
➡️ Check it all out at MCrider.com/Member
📘 You can also order both of my books at MCrider.com/books
Links you may be interested in:
Become a Member of MCrider
Get the Field Guide Print Edition
Order ANYTHING on Amazon and Support MCrider
Braking Tips
Entry Speed
Head & Eyes
Slow – Look – Press – Roll
Trail Braking
Following Distance
Police Skills
Riding Under the Influence
Become a Member for immediate access to the MCrider Field Guide.
Below is some gear that I ride with on a daily basis…if you are in the need of good riding gear, the products below have worked well for me.
KLIM Jacket – https://www.MCrider.com/KLIM
Shoei Motorcycle Helmets – https://www.MCrider.com/Shoei
Windshirt/Jacket Liner – https://www.MCrider.com/Liner
Lee Park Sumo Gloves – https://www.MCrider.com/LeeParks
The best source for guiding your practice session is the MCrider Field Guide.
If you are not a Member join for immediate access to the forums and Field Guide
