One-foot technique

The one-foot technique means putting only one foot down when stopping, while the other stays on its footpeg. On most bikes riders put down the left foot and keep the right foot on the rear brake, which holds the bike still on slopes and keeps it ready to move off smoothly.

On uneven ground, a camber or a slope, it is often better to choose the foot on the higher side so you do not have to reach far down. Short riders may slide slightly off the seat to that side to reach the ground firmly.

Practise stopping smoothly with the front brake, bars straight, and putting your foot down only at the last moment. It improves balance and control in traffic and at junctions, and is a common element of rider training.