Vermont Castings MOTORCYCLE Manual page 65

28
Stopping Quickly
in a Curve
If you know the
technique, using both
brakes in a turn is possible,
although it should be done
very carefully. When leaning
the motorcycle some of
the traction is used for
cornering. Less traction is
available for stopping. A
skid can occur if you apply
too much brake. Also, using
the front brake incorrectly on a slippery
surface may be hazardous. Use caution
and squeeze the brake lever, never grab.
If you must stop quickly while turning
in a curve, first straighten and square
the handlebars, then stop. If you find
yourself in a situation that does not
allow straightening first, such as when
there is a danger of running off the
road in a left-hand curve, or when
facing oncoming traffic in a right-
hand curve, apply the brakes smoothly
and gradually. As you slow, you can
reduce your lean angle and apply more
brake pressure until the motorcycle is
straight and maximum brake pressure
swerve,thenbrake
ridewithinyourabilities
stoPPingdistance
can be applied. Always straighten
the handlebars in the last few feet of
stopping to maintain your balance and
remain upright.
Maximum Straight-Line
Braking
Maximum straight-line braking is
accomplished by fully applying front
and rear brakes without locking either
wheel. Keep your body centered over
the motorcycle and look well ahead,
not down. This will help you keep
the motorcycle in as straight a line as
possible, minimizing lean angle and the
likelihood of the wheels losing traction.
brake,thenswerve