Why use a motorcycle’s rear brake when entering a corner?

A motorcycle’s rear brake can help stabilize the bike when entering a curve, although the front brake does most of the work during hard braking. The article says that reducing the rear wheel’s speed can give the rider greater control and stability.

According to tire maker Pirelli, hard braking shifts most of the motorcycle’s weight onto the front wheel. In extreme situations, the rear wheel can even lift off the ground. The recommended balance is about 70% to 80% of braking force at the front, with the rest applied at the rear.

Experienced riders may apply the rear brake a few tenths of a second before the front brake to pre-load it and make the motorcycle’s entry into a curve more stable. The article stresses that riders should apply the brake progressively, especially when the motorcycle is leaning, because excessive use can affect the vehicle’s balance.

The article also cites safety recommendations from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Riders should obtain a license, practice on unfamiliar motorcycles in a controlled area, check tire pressure, tread, brakes, lights and fluid levels before each trip, and use a DOT-certified helmet. They should obey traffic signals and road markings, leave enough space, travel with traffic, and signal and check behind them before changing lanes.