Braking, Swerving, and Emergency Avoidance
Braking Basics
Most of a motorcycle's stopping power comes from the front brake, but both brakes should be applied together. Squeeze the front brake progressively rather than grabbing it, and apply the rear brake lightly to stabilize the bike. On a curve, straighten the bike before braking hard; braking while leaned over can cause a slide. Test questions often ask which brake to use in an emergency; the answer is both, with smooth progressive pressure.
Swerving
When an obstacle appears and there is no time to stop, swerve. Keep your eyes on the escape path, push the handlebar in the direction of the turn (countersteering), and keep the bike upright. Do not brake and swerve at the same time unless the bike has ABS; combining hard braking with a swerve can cause a fall. Once past the obstacle, straighten and regain control.
Emergency Avoidance
Scan far ahead, cover the brakes in risky areas, and maintain space cushions. If a car pulls out, swerve or brake as the situation allows, and use the horn if it helps. Practice in a safe lot so the actions become automatic.
Rule of thumb: brake in a straight line, swerve with the bike upright, and never combine maximum braking with a hard swerve on a non-ABS bike. Look where you want to go, not at the hazard.