Braking on a Motorcycle?

Question

I took the MSP course earlier this month and got my license. I have a Ninja 500 now but Im scared to death of riding it. I know, Im being stupid.

During the MSP course though, our instructor never taught us or even told us what we do when we want to turn a corner meaning slow down. Do you pull in the clutch, apply brakes and then make the corner or do you just apply brakes and make the corner?

Say if you were going to be going around a tight corner and you're in 3rd gear or so and needed to slow down, would you stall if you dont pull the clutch in as you're braking for the corner?

Any information would help. Thanks

Answer 1

Honey, your an accident ready to happen.

braking is one of the msot important things to learn.

there isnt any given answer, there are too many variables.

never pull the clutch until you are about ot stop, then only use the rear brake to come to a complete stop with.

If you use the front and there is oil on the road, you will fall over real fast.

Answer 2

Unless your going to almost come to a stop you wouldn't need to pull in the clutch.I downshift before the turn to second or even first if it's a very slow tight turn.If you stay in too high a gear the bike will start to jerk and buck.If your in the right gear as you complete the turn your ready to accelerate when you finish your turn.And no your not being stupid.A little fear will help keep you alive.As you gain experience you will become more confident.Fear might be the wrong word.But whatever you call it a little respect for what the bike can do is a good thing.Remember ...ride like your invisible.See you out there on the road.

Answer 3

your best way to brake is even,gradual over a long distance. as for the other part of your question... clearly you do not know how easly your about to never ride a bike again,"If you need to brake during turning your aproche is to fast.

Answer 4

Any time you need to use the brakes, pull the clutch lever first.

Answer 5

First thing...relax. This will all come natural after a while. In the meantime, practice (a lot) in a safe place.

In general, you want to slow down BEFORE the corner. That way you'll be in the appropriate gear and not braking while turning. You also don't usually want to pull in the clutch while braking, except to change gears. That way you can use you motor to slow you down. Be sure to wear a helmet and watch out for the nuts out there (don't be one of THEM)!

Answer 6

No you won't stall the bike, the bike doesn't care what gear your in when you turn, just as long as your still moving forward.  Don't pull the clutch in the middle of a turn.  And definitely don't brake in the middle of a turn either.  Start your braking and shifting well before the corner and LOOK where you want to go.  If you have to brake mid-turn be sure to apply the brake smoothly and bring the bike up at the same time.  Most of your traction on a bike is on the rear wheel (60%), when you brake weight is transfered to the front and onto the front wheel which will make the steering heavier or, if your going fast enough, lock up the front which you don't want.  Just be smooth, look where you want to go and lean into it (I don't mean hang off like a pro racer).  GO AT YOUR OWN PACE AND NEVER GIVE UP.  Also pick up a copy of "Twist of the Wrist I or II" by Keith Code, Twist I is more for everyday riding and II goes more into racing but you can still apply what is said to regular commutes.  Good luck.

Answer 7

You'd better take it slow, or consider selling the bike, if you're scared to death of riding it.

Good luck to you.