Underbraking

Underbraking means applying the brakes too gently when a quick stop is needed, so the stopping distance becomes longer than necessary. It is one of the most common factors in motorcycle crashes: riders fear locking a wheel or falling, and do not use the grip they have.

Modern tyres and ABS let you brake much harder than most riders expect. A firm, progressive squeeze of the front brake, with the rear brake used too, gives the shortest stop. On bikes without ABS, the skill is to build pressure quickly but smoothly, letting the weight transfer onto the front tyre before reaching full force.

Practise emergency stops regularly in an empty car park or on a training course, gradually increasing speed and braking force, so the right reaction becomes automatic.