1. Brakes are for controlling speed, not just for stopping.
2. The front brake has better braking performance.
3. Brakes achieve maximum braking power just before lockup; once locked, braking effectiveness drops significantly and balance is more likely to be lost.
Many beginners prefer using the rear brake and avoid the front brake out of fear that using the front brake might cause them to flip over. In reality, the front brake is safer in many situations, and learning to use it can be mastered quickly.
Why do we mainly use the front brake?
1. The front brake provides better braking performance. Speed control mainly relies on the friction between the wheels and the road surface, which is proportional to the pressure the wheels exert on the road. When using the front brake, due to inertia, the pressure of the front wheel on the road increases, enhancing braking effectiveness. Using the rear brake does not have this effect. Moreover, when using the front brake, the pressure of the rear wheel on the road decreases significantly, reducing friction considerably.
2. When going downhill, only the front brake has sufficient braking force, because most of the weight of the bike and rider shifts to the front wheel, increasing the friction between the front wheel and the road. The rear wheel, meanwhile, exerts very little pressure on the road, reducing friction and making braking ineffective—applying even a small amount of brake force can cause the rear wheel to lock up and skid.
Brake Usage Practice:
1. Most mountain bike brake levers are two-finger brakes. During riding, place your index and middle fingers on the levers so you can brake immediately in an emergency. Many riders leave their index finger free for gear shifting and use only their middle finger to control the brake, allowing them to shift and brake simultaneously.
2. First and foremost, we need to learn to control braking force—slowly get familiar with how much force produces how much braking power, to manage braking effectiveness and prevent lockup. Once you’re familiar with the relationship between braking force and braking effect, you can confidently use the front brake.
3. You can master front brake techniques by practicing quick stops, paying attention to changes in your body’s center of gravity during braking and adjusting accordingly.
Precautions When Using the Front Brake:
1. When making an emergency stop, your body should move slightly backward and downward along with the braking action. This prevents the rear wheel from lifting—or even you being thrown off—due to the forward inertia caused by braking.
2. When the front wheel is turning, you should not use the front brake. Once you’re skilled, you may apply slight front brake pressure appropriately.
3. When there are obstacles ahead, try to avoid using the front brake.
Normally, the rear brake mainly serves as an auxiliary function. Applying slight rear brake control while using the front brake can enhance overall braking performance.