To stop on wet pavement, it is best to:
Answers
Apply the front brake only.
Coast to a stop.
Apply the rear brake only.
Apply the front and rear brakes together.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: Apply the front and rear brakes together.
When stopping on wet pavement, it is important to use both the front and rear brakes simultaneously to maintain control and minimize the risk of skidding. Here’s an explanation of why this is the best method:
1. Maximizing Stopping Power
- Front brakes generally provide most of the stopping power on dry pavement because they are responsible for transferring a larger portion of the bike’s weight during braking. This helps slow down the vehicle more effectively.
- On wet pavement, the road surface is more slippery, so relying solely on the front brake can cause the tires to lose traction and lead to a skid. Using both the front and rear brakes together helps distribute the braking force more evenly between the two tires, preventing any one brake from overloading the tires and causing a loss of control.
2. Rear Brake Helps Stabilize
- The rear brake is less likely to cause a skid compared to the front brake on slippery surfaces. Applying the rear brake helps prevent the bike or vehicle from pitching forward excessively, which can happen when you use too much front brake. This balance helps stabilize the vehicle and reduces the risk of a sudden loss of control.
3. Gradual Pressure
- It’s important to apply the brakes gradually rather than abruptly. On wet pavement, sudden braking can lock the tires and lead to a skid. Applying both brakes gently, and in unison, allows for more gradual deceleration and better control, ensuring that the tires maintain their grip on the road.
4. Avoid Other Options
- Coasting to a stop might seem safer, but it doesn’t provide the necessary control in emergency situations or on steep inclines.
- Applying only the front or rear brake is less effective and can result in loss of traction or control.
In conclusion, applying both the front and rear brakes together, while gradually increasing pressure, ensures the safest and most controlled stop on wet pavement.