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Post Dates
Myth Exposed: “Avoid Using the Front Brakes Because it Will Throw You Over the Handlebars”
In reality, the front brake is responsible for 60 to 70 percent of the bike's stopping power and should be used. In emergency braking situations, the effective center of mass of the bike shifts forward toward the front wheel and tire, which creates a higher adhesion value to the front tire that tends to prevent the front wheel from locking unless the brake torque is extremely high. Another consequence is that the traction force in the rear wheel and tire is reduced, allowing the rear wheel to lock up and slide. With braking action on the front wheel, the rear wheel, even if locked, will not move from side to side and the bike will continue straight.
Myths Exposed: “Accelerate Around a Turn to Regain Control”
The safest way to approach a turn on a curve is to slow down before entering it. Acceleration should be undertaken only near the end of the curve. Rapidly applying the throttle in the turn, when the bike is in a lean could result in the rear tire breaking traction and the bike going into a slide. The same effect may occur with substantial rear-brake application.
Myths Exposed: “Lay it Down”
Instead of performing an evasive maneuver, the inexperienced rider will often lay the bike over onto its side as a last ditch effort. A sliding motorcycle has less stopping ability than properly braked tires.
Myths Exposed: “Speed up when bike Weaves or Wobbles”
In actuality the rider should gently ease off the throttle, place his upper body on the gas tank to effectively change the center of gravity and graduall slow down. Initially accelerating may slow the wobble or weave until the next oscillation occurs, but then the result will be a much more pronounced instability. Hard braking will alter the suspension characteristics and may likewise cause a crash.
Attitude
"The mindset you develop will shape your thoughts and guide your opinions. Developing the right attitude is both fundamental and crucial for safe riding."Stopping Distance Rule
Never ride so fast that you cannot stop comfortably on your own side of the road within the distance you can see to be clear.-
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1 response so far ↓
irondad // 07/29/2009 at 8:25 pm
I appreciate this poll. A lot of riders probably won’t know. I”m a TEAM OREGON instructor. I’ve been lurking and not commenting. I’m also certified to train Motors. I know it sounds like bragging. Don’t mean to. Just introducing myself, as it were. Great site. I’m envious in some ways because you’re dedicating this solely to training issues. I venture into color!
Something else I stress to students is that if they end up being surprised riding at night, it’s a sure sign they they’re over-riding the headlight. Your poll will give them a great starting point!