out the lever fully until ready for the next downshift. Usually you shift gears
one at a time, but it is possible to shift through more than one gear while the
clutch is squeezed.
Remain in first gear while you are stopped so that you can move out quickly if
you need to.
Work toward a smooth, even clutch release, especially when downshifting. It is
best to change gears before entering a turn. However, sometimes shifting while
in the turn is necessary. If so, remember to do so smoothly. A sudden change in
power to the rear wheel can cause a skid.
Braking
Improper braking technique remains a significant contributing factor in many
motorcycle crashes. Your motorcycle has two brake controls: one for the front
wheel and one for the rear wheel. Always use both brakes every time you slow
or stop. The front brake is more powerful and can provide at least 70% of your
total stopping power. The front brake is safe to use if you use it properly.
Maximum straight-line braking is accomplished by fully applying both front
and rear brakes without locking either wheel.
To do this:
• Squeeze the front brake
smoothly, firmly and with increasing pressure.
Do not grab the brake lever or use abrupt pressure.
•
As the motorcycle’s weight
transfers forward, more traction becomes
available at the front wheel, so the front brake can be applied harder after
braking begins.
•
Keep your knees against the
tank and your eyes up, looking well ahead.
This helps you stop the motorcycle in a straight line.
• Apply light-to-lighter pressure
to the rear brake pedal to prevent a rear
wheel skid. As weight transfers forward less traction is available at the rear.
Use less rear brake pressure.
Using both brakes for even “normal” stops will permit you to develop the
proper habit or skill of using both brakes properly in an emergency. Squeeze the
front brake and press down on the rear. Grabbing at the front brake or jamming
down on the rear can cause the brakes to lock, resulting in control problems.
Braking in a Corner
Any time a motorcycle is leaned over, the amount of traction available for
braking is reduced. The greater the lean angle, the more the possibility of the
tires losing traction.
To stop as quickly and as safely as possible in a curve, and depending on road
and traffic conditions, try to get the motorcycle as perpendicular to the road as
possible, then brake. If conditions do not allow, brake smoothly and gradually,
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