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Riding Skills Series: Panic Stops And how to avoid them


By Andrew Trevitt
illustrators: Dean Groover


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1. Some of the most gut-wrenching moments while riding occur when something
magically appears in front of you and you have to jam on the binders to avoid
a collision. You can make life easier by learning how to avoid these
situations altogether, or knowing exactly what to do when it comes time to
stop suddenly. The quickest way to stop is by using a combination of both
front and rear brakes. The front brake should be applied gradually, rather
than grabbed suddenly. This will decrease the chance of it locking up. The
rear brake should be used firmly, to the point of impending lock up. Both
tires will howl on the verge of lock up, and that's when the quickest stops
are made. Find an empty parking lot and practice different scenarios
including bumps, while turning, and in the rain.




2. While riding, you should be scanning the road ahead, looking for anything
that may cross your path unexpectedly. Note the characteristics of the
surface you're riding on and be ready to use the brakes accordingly. Keep one
or two fingers on the front brake lever and your foot over the rear brake
pedal. If you can't see the road ahead for the distance you'll need to stop
at the speed you're traveling, slow down. Check your mirrors regularly. Be
aware of what is around you and try to avoid being followed too closely. In a
panic situation, the last thing you need is to be rear-ended. Observing your
surroundings and planning escape routes for any possibility should be a
constant exercise while riding.




3. There are times when it may be best to do something other than brake to
get out of a bind. For instance, in this photo the rider can either stop
suddenly to avoid a collision with the car or-since he's been paying
attention and knows there is no other traffic around-simply pull a quick
countersteer to stay out of danger. A panic stop leaves you open to other
dangers during and after the stop. If it's at all possible, use a safer
alternative.




4. When you must brake, don't panic and grab everything you can. Use the
brakes just like you've practiced. Try to get a look in the mirrors while
braking to see if there's danger behind or to the side. This can help you
find an escape route. In this example a truck is in the oncoming lane, but
the rider can brake hard momentarily and then, when the truck is safely past,
move to that lane. Try to avoid turning while on the brakes, especially if
the surface is bumpy or wet. With practice and forethought, you can make your
daily ride safer and less stressful.

This article was originally published in the August '99 issue of <i>Sport
Rider</i>.