Brakes - BMW R 1200 RT Rider's Manual

accidents when driving at
extreme angles.
Avoid extreme angles.

Brakes

How is the shortest
braking distance
achieved?
The dynamic load distribution
between the front and rear wheel
changes during braking. The
heavier you brake, the more
the front wheel is loaded. The
greater the wheel load, the more
braking force can be transferred.
To achieve the shortest possible
braking distance, the front brake
must be applied quickly and with
increasing force. This optimal-
ly utilizes the dynamic load in-
crease on the front wheel. At the
same time, the clutch should al-
so be actuated. With the "forced
braking" often practiced in which
the brake pressure is generat-
ed as quickly as possible and
with great force, the dynamic
load distribution cannot follow
the increased deceleration and
the braking force cannot be com-
pletely transferred to the road
surface. To prevent the front
wheel from locking, the ABS sys-
tem must intervene and reduce
the brake pressure; the braking
distance increases.
Descending mountain
passes
There is a danger of the
brakes fading if you use on-
ly the rear brakes when descend-
ing mountain passes. Under
extreme conditions, the brakes
could overheat and suffer severe
damage.
Use both front and rear brakes,
and make use of the engine's
braking effect as well.
Wet, soiled brakes
Moisture and dirt on the brake
disks and the brake pads result in
a decrease in the braking action.
Delayed or poorer braking action
must be expected in the follow-
ing situations:
When driving in the rain and
through puddles.
After washing the motorcycle.
When driving on roads spread
with salt.
After working on the brakes
due to oil or grease residues.
When driving on soiled roads
or offroad.
Poor braking action due to
moisture and dirt.
Brake until brakes are dry or
clean; clean if necessary.
Brake early until the full braking
action is available again.
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