Squeeze the Brakes
One of the most important aspects of corner entry is learning how to apply the brakes properly. The front brakes are a powerful component of the motorcycle, and as we discussed last week, are not only much more efficient in slowing the motorcycle than engine compression braking, but are much less expensive to replace when worn out.
So what is the most effective way to use your brakes at the corner entrance? Once the throttle has been closed completely, use two fingers (that’s all that is needed on today’s modern sportbikes), to gradually apply the brakes in a smooth, fluid motion. The pressure on the lever increases as the rider moves through the braking zone, but that initial squeeze of the lever only applies approximately ten percent of the braking force, enough to transfer the weight to the front tire’s contact patch and set the motorcycle up to accept the harder braking forces to follow.
One thing to remember: Don’t confuse the words ‘smooth’ and ‘gradual’ with slow. Professional racers are traveling at extremely high speeds and must do a lot on the motorcycle in a very short amount of time. But even when going to the brakes at the end of a 180-mph straight, they still make the transition to the brake lever in a smooth, controlled fashion.