3

uSe yOuR BRakeS CaRefuLLy

Always keep a safe stopping distance between you
and other vehicles or objects. Adjust stopping distances
and braking forces to suit riding conditions.
do not overuse the front-wheel brake
If your bicycle has two hand brakes, apply both
brakes at the same time. Over-use or misuse of a front-
wheel brake, such as using only the front-wheel brake
in an emergency, could cause the rear wheel to lift
from the ground which could cause you to lose control
(Figure 3).
WaRninG
applying sudden or excessive stopping force with the front-wheel
brake may cause the rear wheel to lift off the ground or the front
wheel to slip out from under you, which can cause you to lose
control and fall. apply both brakes at the same time, and shift your
weight backward on the bicycle while braking.
Figure 3- Overuse of the
front-wheel brake can cause
the rear wheel to lift
Make sure your brakes meet your needs
Many models of modern brakes are very powerful; they are designed to stop a
bicycle in wet or muddy conditions. If you feel your brakes are too powerful for
your riding needs, take your bicycle to your dealer for adjustment or replacement
of the braking system.
Be careful when riding in wet conditions
No brakes, whatever their design, work as effectively in wet weather as they do
in dry. Even properly aligned, lubricated, and maintained brakes require greater
lever pressure and longer stopping distances in wet weather; anticipate the extra
distance it will take to stop.