Braking Is a problem ??
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 6,535
Likes: 11,050
From: ohio
I've not had a problem with braking on my 98 Sportster yet. If someone in a cross lane suddenly pulls out just 20 feet in front of you while you are going 55mph because they "didn't see you" as happened to a deceased local motorcyclist in my area this year, then good luck stopping in time with anything. I think his bike had ABS, it didn't help him.
Last edited by Long lonesome highwayman; Dec 7, 2020 at 01:14 PM.
Road Captain
Joined: Apr 2018
Posts: 627
Likes: 324
From: Covington, VA
When I was a kid, there was an empty horse pasture that I used for experimenting with my bikes over the years, spinning out, fishtailing, circular and figure-eight figures while spinning/skidding the tires. This is where I learned to balance the weight distribution front-to-rear with control of front and rear brakes.
The most serious accident that I've had (so far) was during a solitary ride on a very familiar road. Because it was so familiar, I let my guard down in a tight left hand turn and didn't anticipate the gravel "snake" crossing the road in the tightest spot which had washed across during a severe rain storm the night before. The front tire had traction but the rear had lost it, but I still had control. Then I suddenly ran out of gravel which had the texture of beach sand, causing the rear tire to stop sliding immediately, flipping the bike over onto its right side and sending me airborne. Being a snow-skier and used to crashing on the snow, I automatically balled up and rolled about 40 yards down the road. Fortunately, no cars were coming from either direction. I had no "road rash" at all on myself or my apparel. The right hand grip punched a big dent in the gas tank and the handlebar was shaped like the number 7. With my ego shattered, I rode slowly home and faced the music from my wife. That was over 20 years ago and I still hear about it when I get ready to go for a ride. The fact that it happened on Mother's Day didn't help the situation, either.
The most serious accident that I've had (so far) was during a solitary ride on a very familiar road. Because it was so familiar, I let my guard down in a tight left hand turn and didn't anticipate the gravel "snake" crossing the road in the tightest spot which had washed across during a severe rain storm the night before. The front tire had traction but the rear had lost it, but I still had control. Then I suddenly ran out of gravel which had the texture of beach sand, causing the rear tire to stop sliding immediately, flipping the bike over onto its right side and sending me airborne. Being a snow-skier and used to crashing on the snow, I automatically balled up and rolled about 40 yards down the road. Fortunately, no cars were coming from either direction. I had no "road rash" at all on myself or my apparel. The right hand grip punched a big dent in the gas tank and the handlebar was shaped like the number 7. With my ego shattered, I rode slowly home and faced the music from my wife. That was over 20 years ago and I still hear about it when I get ready to go for a ride. The fact that it happened on Mother's Day didn't help the situation, either.
I didn't mean to give the impression that I don't use the front brake at all. I always use both brakes at the same time. I just use less pressure on the front brake lever than I do on the rear brake pedal. There is ALWAYS pressure from my two fingers, just less of it. I use my front brake for supplemental braking and I have had to use maximum pressure on it more than once but fortunately, not that often. When my foot is on the pedal, my fingers are on the lever just in case.
Road Captain
Joined: Apr 2018
Posts: 627
Likes: 324
From: Covington, VA
Considering that I've been riding the same way since 1964 and I've only had the one wreck (so far - don't want to jinx myself), I must be doing something right. So, in the UK they teach you to add more power to the front? And in a turn? Hmmm.....
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 24,530
Likes: 30,850
From: Pennsylvania
Practice, practice, practice your braking skills and your avoidance skills, not necessary the same thing.
Get yourself to a empty parking lot and practice stopping using the rear brake only about 20 times.
Then practice stopping using your front brake only 20 times.
Then practice stopping using both front and rear brakes 20 times.
Then do it alll over again and increase your speed and braking. Once you get a feel of how your motorcycle handles while braking, practice a couple times a week until you are comfortable with your skill set.
Always look forward and out as far as you can while braking and keep your head up and not look down or sideways, it may save you someday.
Oh and if you have not already taken a rider course - schedule one, it will be the best thing you can do.
Last edited by CoolBreeze3646; Dec 7, 2020 at 04:42 PM.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 38,592
Likes: 6,435
From: Honah Lee
In slow 180 turns , I drag rear a little. No front. Clutch in or least slipping with a tic of rpm. Seems to add control and pivot around rear. My bike steers slow and heavy. Neck bearings are at minimum fall away. That actually makes it go straighter at speed. Too tight and you oversteer in windy conditions.
Road Captain
Joined: Jan 2020
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From: Where the spirit meets the road
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