5. Cover The Brake

Despite what the MSF might say, we’re of the strong belief that covering the brake lever with at least one finger is a good practice and could be a potential life saver.

Get in the habit of covering the brake lever with at least one finger. The MSF doesn’t approve of this technique, but the fraction of a second saved by not having to reach for the lever could be the difference between stopping short of an obstacle or plowing into a bumper.

And in tight, slow-speed maneuvers, use the rear brake to help settle the bike by allowing stability-inducing throttle input without increasing the bike’s velocity. Honing the balance between power and brakes at low speeds is a key element in confidently making tight turns at low speeds.

And while we’re on the subject of brakes…