Never ride the brake lever or pedal in a downhill situation, especially 2 up or with a trailer. The wear factor on the pads are multiplied huge and toast too soon (maybe before you realize) causing the rotor to warp from heat /alignment/grinding/something stopping your show. On a week long trip this could happen before you get home.
BadaBing Advanced Member
1196 Posts
[Mentor]
Houston, TX
USA Harley-Davidson
Heritage Classic 04
Posted - 02/14/2005 : 4:53 AM
Hey MotleySTL,
Are you suggesting to rather use your engine to keep your speed in check while going downhill?
Ciao,
BadaBing
marsam Advanced Member
510 Posts
[Mentor]
Birkirkara
Malta Yamaha
Dragstar & Vmax
Posted - 02/15/2005 : 11:41 PM
Yes, I am surprised at the amount of engine brake you can get from the engine. The weight of a bike is very light compared to a car so the engine's compression will surely help scrub speed when going downhill with the throttle closed. With a car it is likely that the speed will still increase because of its weight. I find out after a ride that I hardly used the brakes if not when coming to a dead stop at the lights or junction etc. Otherwise, closing the throttle and downshifting is enough to reduce speed in most other situations.
Edited by - marsam on 02/26/2005 2:24 PM
Indiana Randy
Moderator
2118 Posts
[Mentor]
Fort Wayne, Indiana
USA Honda
2000 Magna V4 750
Posted - 02/28/2005 : 1:40 PM
You're right about the ability of a bike's engine to scrub speed by letting off the throttle. BUT! Remember to watch your mirrors. Without a brake light on, the cage behind you may not know you're slowing down. It's good to make a practice of lightly tapping the rear brake to trigger the light and signal the cage driver you're slowing down...even if you aren't using the back brake.
Posted - 02/06/2005 : 2:14 PM
Advanced Member
