New York City Motorcycle Permit Practice Test

Which brake control should be primarily used when you need to stop on a motorcycle?

1. Only the front brake

2. Only the rear brake

3. Both front and rear brakes

4. The emergency brake

The correct answer is: Both front and rear brakes

Using both the front and rear brakes together is crucial for safe and effective stopping on a motorcycle. The front brake provides a significant amount of stopping power since it is responsible for roughly 70% of the motorcycle's braking force. Engaging the rear brake helps maintain stability and balance during the stop, preventing the rear wheel from lifting or skidding. When you rely solely on the front brake, you risk losing control, especially if you apply it too abruptly. Similarly, using only the rear brake can lead to longer stopping distances and a potential loss of traction. In contrast, utilizing both brakes allows for the most controlled and effective stopping, ensuring that the motorcycle remains stable and predictable during the braking process. In this context, the emergency brake is not typically a feature on motorcycles in the same way it is for cars, and it wouldn’t be applicable for routine stopping situations. Therefore, the best practice is to use both brakes for the safest and most effective stopping technique.