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Old 01-11-2007, 03:01 PM   #66 (permalink)
Uncle Bob
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Join Date: Dec 1969
Bike: 2003 Volusia SE
Location: Montréal, Québec, Canada
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Originally Posted by Uncle B
Myth 12; A Skilled Rider Can Stop Better with Conventional Brakes than with Anti-Lock Brakes:
Don't know if you're refering to canadian testing done last year but yes antilock brakes ( especially linked ) do improve braking by allowing maximum braking pressure to both wheels without lockup.

Fastest braking is achieved through the use of both brakes, even though most is done by the front wheel the extra stopping power of the rear wheel does make a difference in braking disance.

Most riders rely on one or the other and in a panic situation (adrenaline spike ) using both at the same time to their maximum capability is highly unlikely.

The study also surprised a few with braking results by type of bike, most assuming that "R" bikes with multipiston brakes would slow the lighter bikes much faster.

The results actually showed that heavier cruisers stopped faster even using cruder braking systems. The extra weight and geometry of the cruisers kept more weight on the rear wheel and flatter profile tires more rubber on the road.

They also compared braking results with that of cars and found that contrary to popular belief many cars can stop in shorter distances than motorcycles.

So the reassuring feeling many riders have of being able to outbrake cars on the road as a justification for tailgating is just that a "feeling".
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