On the Cycling Journey
As cycling continues to grow in popularity, more and more enthusiasts are joining the sport. However, as an outdoor activity involving considerable speed, cycling inherently carries certain risks. During rides, cyclists often encounter unpredictable factors such as poor road conditions or sudden appearances of pedestrians. Due to varying levels of riding experience, these elements represent potential hazards in cycling. To ensure safety and respond correctly to emergencies, it’s essential to establish the right mindset: should you brake with the front or rear brake first?
Due to significant design differences between performance bicycles and ordinary commuter bikes, applying too much braking force can easily cause the wheels to lock up.
Some performance bicycle manufacturers place warning labels on new bikes stating: “Note: Use the rear brake first, then the front brake.” While this warning is not entirely wrong, it shouldn’t be taken as absolute truth. This label is primarily aimed at novice riders who are new to cycling. It's meant to prevent inexperienced riders from overusing the front brake in emergencies, which could lead to the front wheel locking up and causing a dangerous forward somersault.
The braking method of using the rear brake first and then the front brake generally poses little danger on flat roads or uphill sections. However, if you venture into forest trails or mountain biking, continuing with this approach may lead to hazards.
Generally speaking: “When cycling, the front brake is the primary brake, while the rear brake is used to assist in speed control.”
Many experienced cyclists and experts advise: amateur cyclists heading to mountain roads or unfamiliar routes should not only be adaptable but also have the correct braking mindset to minimize injury. Many amateur cycling groups or beginners, without proper professional guidance or adequate training, ride into mountain or forest trails relying solely on courage. Insufficient or even incorrect safety awareness while doing so is essentially putting their lives at risk.
Experts point out that many people know that when traveling over 10 km/h, using the rear brake—even on a straight path—can cause the bike to skid, and even more so when turning, sometimes resulting in a crash. However, using the front brake doesn’t cause skidding; even if you can't stop completely, you’ll continue in a straight line. Therefore, it’s recommended that recreational cyclists consider training themselves to use 70% front brake and 30% rear brake during normal rides. In simpler terms: “The rear brake is just for assistance, helping to slow down.”
Additionally, when cycling, besides paying attention to braking, make good use of convex mirrors on curves to check for oncoming traffic. Moreover, a helmet and gloves are essential gear.
Also, when falling off your bike, it’s best to fall with the bike—that’s because the wheels act like airbags, often hitting obstacles first. The handlebars can protect your shoulders, and the pedals can shield your thighs, greatly reducing the chance of fractures, leaving you with at most some scrapes and bruises.