Mountain Biking - How to Use your Brakes

• Locking the brakes should be achieved by two fingers the most since the other three should be used in maintaining grip and control of the bike while braking.


• Front brakes offer stronger braking capacity but beware not to slam on the front brakes. This will cause the front wheel to lock up thus setting you off flying over the handlebar.
  
  A good way to use your front brake is to shift your weight backwards as you brake to avoid being thrown over the handlebars.


• The rear brake is less of a concern: if you over brake the rear wheel it will lock up and begin to skid. Although this is not as bad as when your front wheels lock up (you will fall off!). Skidding causes worn tyres and off road, it causes considerable trail damage which should be avoided at all times.


• A mix of both front and rear brakes is always the best way to stop. Unless, you are familiar with the characteristics of your front brake, don't use them during short descents, high-speed cornering, and loose terrain.


• When on a long descent, do not apply brakes constantly for this will cause the brakes to over heat which may cause you to loose stopping power. Try to "pump" the brakes. Apply and release during the descent. This way, the brakes are kept cool and your speed is controlled.


• Know which brake controls the front wheel. Of course you will know it of your own mountain bike, but if you are renting one or using your friends then please check if the left brake controlls the front wheel or the rear wheel. Usually it is the left brake that controls the front wheel on U.S. bikes.


• When your brakes are wet, they will not stop as good unless you have disc brakes.


• Don't brake before going over obstacles, SPEED UP. If the section is too steep, WALK.


• Check your brake pads for wear and position and keep your rims clean.