Honda CRF450X, Owner'S Manual

Page: 24 / 174

Braking
To slow or stop, apply the front brake lever and
rear brake pedal smoothly, while downshifting to
match your speed. Gradually increase braking as
you feel the brakes slowing your speed. To
prevent stalling the engine, pull the clutch lever
in before coming to a complete stop. For support,
put your left foot down first, then your right foot
when you are through using the rear brake pedal.
For maximum braking, close the throttle and
firmly apply the front brake lever and rear brake
pedal controls.
Applying the brakes too hard may cause the
wheels to lock and slide, reducing control of your
CRF. If this happens, release the brake controls,
steer straight ahead until you regain control, then
reapply the brakes more gently.
Generally, reduce your speed or complete
braking before beginning a turn. Avoid braking or
closing the throttle quickly while turning. Either
action may cause one or both wheels to slip. Any
wheel slip will reduce your control of your CRF.
When riding in wet or raining conditions, or on
loose surfaces, the ability to maneuver and stop
will be reduced. All of your actions should be
smooth under these conditions. Rapid
acceleration, braking, or turning may cause loss
of control. For your safety, exercise extreme
caution when braking, accelerating, or turning.
When descending a long, steep grade, use engine
compression braking by downshifting, with
intermittent use of both brakes.
When you brake to a stop, pull the clutch lever in
before stopping completely to prevent stalling the
engine. For support, put your left foot on the
ground first, then your right foot when you’re
through braking.
18
Basic Operating Instructions
001-030.qxd 06.6.1 10:57 ページ18