You are right, and I was doing too many things at once last night. Because of my dirt background I do use the rear sometimes. Only at the end of straights to somewhat steady the rear if it is dancing around on me at all or to limit chassis dive It should be REAR brake, then front slightly as you let off (both on briefly though). I think it was Eddie Lawson, or one of the other old schoolers who talked about it. I cant remember who
That is the exact sequence that is taught at Total Control but without the rear brake. I too have a hella time trying to do that. I'm glad I'm not the only one! Like I said this is a terrific thread with very very specific ideas and specific things to work on. One other question...when trailbraking to apex are you steadily increasing your lean angle the entire time? Or do you achieve max lean angle while still on the brakes and hang on them until apex? Is there a way to practice this without falling on your butt?
that can vary corner to corner...but in general, when trailbraking, you are turning in earlier, and carrying less lean angle than if you were getting your braking done earlier. your tire only has so much available traction. whatever is used up in braking takes away from what is available for cornering. so there is a delicate balance that must be struck for each individual corner and your specific intentions each lap. and yes, of course you can practice this without falling on your butt. just step your pace down a couple notches and practice braking into the apex. nothing drastic...just at a relaxed, reduced pace, just drag brake in and slowly let off as you get closer to apex. as long as you are staying well above your available traction (which is why you step down the pace when trying this at first) you don't have to worry about how much braking vs how much lean you can apply. BUT....you will fall on your head if you keep trying that crazy apply brakes while throttle is still on crap.
Keep in mind, the idea of the brakes before closing the throttle..... the overlap is VERY short. So short in fact that I am nearly doing all three at once when I do it at the end of a straight. MY thumb is rolling out the throttle while my fingers intiate the front brake, and the foot initiates the rear brake. It is nearly all at once, then squeeze the brake on tighter to get most braking done, let off the rear, ease off the front as you increase lean until you reach max lean and no brakes, back on maint throttle before apex, and roll on from apex out. . I can only do it at the end of straights though where i essentially have the time to think about it :lol. 90% of the time, I dont even attempt it really. Off throttle, on front brakes, drag rear, tighten front, off rear, let of of front as lean increases is the "normal" sequence if I use the rear. which is only certain types of turns... negate rear for most turns. I came from dirt though, so I am comfy with the rear. Some people as Jigmore said never touch it. Whatever works for you without putting you on your head :lol: