For maximum braking in a straight line, what should you do?

• A.Keep the motorcycle upright and straight, and apply both brakes firmly without locking the wheels
• B.Lean the motorcycle sharply while braking hard
• C.Use only the rear brake to avoid a front lockup
• D.Apply the front brake only after the rear wheel locks

Why

Maximum stopping power comes with the motorcycle upright, traveling straight, and both brakes applied firmly to the point just before lockup. Braking hard while leaned over uses traction that is already needed for turning.

Manual topic: California Motorcycle Handbook (DL 655) - Braking · From the California Motorcycle Permit practice bank (CAM-029).

Practice the full California Motorcycle Permit test

More Riding Skills (Braking/Swerving/Turning) questions

• How much of a motorcycle's stopping power does the front brake provide?
• If the front wheel locks during hard braking, what should you do?
• If the rear wheel locks during braking and the motorcycle is still in a straight line, what should you do?
• What is the safest way to perform a quick swerve to avoid an obstacle?
• In a turn, where should you look?