New rider needs help on smooth braking!

New rider needs help on smooth braking!

by Terry
(Nevada)

I am having trouble braking to a smooth stop. I would like to know how to stop but still maintain control of my motorcycle. I have been pulling in the clutch then braking but I feel I have no control of the bike when I am coasting. Should I wait until I am just about stopped before pulling in the clutch? Should I downshift when slowing down? Any advice?

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New rider needs help on smooth braking!

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Dec 27, 2011

All of the above...
by: Anonymous

...but, remember, you are still giving it a little throttle until you have slowed down, even with the clutch in...you gradually rol off the throttle, but if you are feeling out of control, I suspect that you are goin so slow that the bike feels as if it's ready to fall over. With motorcycles, you can/should use more than one control at a time.

Dec 12, 2011

smooth stops
by: Anonymous

Don't forget to keep your head up...I find when I'm "conscious" of braking is when I stop the worst...but if I keep my head up and look forward is when I'm the smoothest.

Dec 12, 2011

Practice
by: Dawn

Practice is the key to everything. When you're slowing down, downshift as you go. That will also help save your brakes too! As you slow, use the front and back brakes until you feel you need to put your foot down. I keep my clutch out until I'm in first gear and going slow enough to almost stall, but it's about what's comfortable for you. Keep practicing and you'll figure out what works for you. Keep the rubber side down!

Dec 12, 2011

Smooth Stops!
by: Anonymous

Be sure to keep your right foot on the brake until you are completely stopped. That way you have the front and rear brakes applied more evenly, and you'll have more control. Alot of people apply both until they get close to a stop, then they put the foot down. I used to do it ALL the time, and it was a hard habit to break, but my stops are so much smoother now!
Good luck!

Dec 12, 2011

Yes to all.
by: Wanda

When you are coming to a stop, apply the front and rear brake gently and progressively until you slow to stop. Yes, you should pull in the clutch and downshift all the way to first gear when stopping. Keep practicing. You'll get it. Ride safe.

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