Motorcycle Braking Basics: Front Brake vs Rear Brake
The front brake gives most of your stopping power. Learn how to use both brakes smoothly.
Key takeaways
- The front brake provides most of your stopping power, so use both brakes together.
- Squeeze smoothly instead of grabbing.
- Slow before a curve and avoid hard braking in it.
Why the front brake matters most
When you brake, weight shifts forward onto the front tire, which gives the front brake more grip and more stopping power. Rider training guidance commonly puts it at around 70 percent. That is why the correct answer to a common test question is the front brake.
Use both brakes together
Using only the rear brake makes stopping slower and longer. Using only the front brake is risky if you grab it. The best stopping is smooth and progressive on both. Squeeze the front lever while pressing the rear pedal, and increase pressure as weight moves forward.
If a wheel locks
A locked front wheel can cause a fall. If it locks on a good surface, release the lever immediately and squeeze again more gently. A locked rear wheel on a straight line can often be held until you stop, according to rider training guidance.
Braking in curves
Braking hard while leaning can upset the bike. Slow before the curve, look through it and roll on the throttle gently. If you must brake in a curve, do it smoothly and straighten the bike a little first.
Slippery surfaces
Wet pavement, painted lines, metal covers and gravel reduce grip. Brake earlier and more gently, and avoid sudden inputs. Increase your following distance to at least two seconds in good conditions and more in the rain.
Practice safely
Find an empty parking lot and practice progressive braking from low speeds. A rider training course includes exactly this practice, which helps on the road test and on the road.
Common mistakes
Grabbing the front brake. A sudden squeeze can lock the wheel.
Looking at the hazard. Your bike follows your eyes, so look at where you want to go.
Braking late. Start braking earlier than you think you need to, especially on a wet road.
Ignoring the mirrors. Know what is behind you before a hard stop.
Knowledge test angle
Tests ask which brake gives more stopping power, what to do if a wheel locks and how to brake in a curve. Take the motorcycle practice quizzes for your state and read the explanations for each.
Next steps
The bottom line: both brakes, smooth pressure and slow before the curve. Practice in a lot and test your knowledge with the rider quizzes for your state on the motorcycle permit practice test page.
Frequently asked questions
Which brake should I use first?
Use both together. Squeeze the front lever smoothly while pressing the rear pedal.
Is engine braking enough?
No. Downshifting helps you slow, but it does not replace the brakes for an emergency stop.
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