November

Motocross braking techniques

Concentrating on your braking techniques can allow you to make up lots of ground on the rider in front of you.

Good braking techniques and cornering skills will help you make up positions during a motorcross race, but so many riders are not confident using their brakes to their full potenial.  The front brake on a motorcross bike provides about 70% of your stopping power but riders get nervous about the front end washing out.  The rear brake doesn't provide as much stopping power but is effective in keeping the bike stable whilst braking.

When braking you should be in the attach position gripping the bike with your knees, particularly when the braking area is rough, to allow you to keep control and take some strain off your arms and shoulders.

When approaching a smooth corner under brakes your weight should be back on the bike to stop the rear wheel from lifting.  If the corner has large braking bumps (usually the case on sandy motorcross tracks) then centralise your weight to allow the bike to rock underneath you over the bumps.  If the corner is off camber, move your weight forward to weight the front wheel to prevent it from washing out.