Safety tip for motorcyclists

A panic stop is one of the scariest things a motorcyclist has to do. It's even more frightening when as you grab the brake your engine begins to rev out of control. Here's a tip that can save you this experience.

If this has happened to you, you probably realize that the motor revved up suddenly because, when you pulled on the front brake lever, the movement of your hand back and down rolled the throttle open. You instinctively pulled in the clutch with your other hand, so the motor was free to rev madly.

The trick is to find some way to prevent this from happening. It has to be something that operates automatically. It can't be something you have to think about when you need to stop in a hurry.

And here it is: ride with your four fingers resting lightly atop the brake lever but not far enough out there to operate the lever. Your thumb is wrapped around the throttle: it has to be, because it's your only grip on it.

When it comes time to stop, you will naturally roll your hand forward. Your thumb closes the throttle while your fingers reach for the lever and then pull it back against the resistance of your thumb. Simple!

Why doesn't this happen on its own? If you pay no attention to where your fingers are when you ride, you will have to open your hand completely and grab for the lever in an emergency. Your thumb naturally opens too and, when you close your fist, your thumb may not be in position to anchor your fingers.

You will have to pull down and back to pull the brake lever and your thumb and palm will roll on more throttle when you do.