Feathering the Brake

Feathering the brake is using small, gentle pressure on the brake lever or pedal, rather than a firm squeeze, to fine-tune speed. Riders feather the rear brake in slow manoeuvres and U-turns to stabilise the bike while keeping some throttle and clutch, and feather the front brake on slippery descents.

It is also a basic off-road skill: on loose downhill sections a light front brake with steady rear brake keeps the bike under control without locking the wheels.

Cover the lever with one or two fingers so you can react quickly, and practise in a car park. Avoid riding with the brake constantly dragging on long descents, since it overheats brakes and drum brakes in particular can fade.