Scared of it, using both, all this I've encountered. But to never touch it? No wonder they aren't confident riding, they aren't ever sure they are going to stop.

correct me if I'm wrong but this isnt true. My understanding is that the larger number of deaths are caused by head injuries that would have been preventable with a helmet

Just because they never touch it doesnt mean that they are not proficient at using the back brake. I would be willing to bet that the people you are refering to are all awesome at using the back brake, in fact I would be willing to bet in a rear brake only stopping contest they would kick most of our asses. The folks that I have met who only use the back brake because that is what they learned years ago quickly become very proficient at using it, to the point that in day to day riding their stopping is indistinguishable from people who use just the front or both.

To which I offer this quote (emphasis added by me):

The object of this Essay is to assert one very simple principle, as entitled to govern absolutely the dealings of society with the individual in the way of compulsion and control, whether the means used be physical force in the form of legal penalties, or the moral coercion of public opinion. That principle is, that the sole end for which mankind are warranted, individually or collectively, in interfering with the liberty of action of any of their number, is self-protection. That the only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of a civilized community, against his will, is to prevent harm to others. His own good, either physical or moral, is not sufficient warrant. He cannot rightfully be compelled to do or forbear because it will be better for him to do so, because it will make him happier, because, in the opinion of others, to do so would be wise, or even right... The only part of the conduct of anyone, for which he is amenable to society, is that which concerns others. In the part which merely concerns himself, his independence is, of right, absolute. Over himself, over his own body and mind, the individual is sovereign.

-John Stuart Mill

Not sure how that is possible given that 75% of the stopping power of a modern modern cycle is generated by the front brakes. My 109-R laughs at the rear brake. I seldom use it. :idk:

Anyone who's ever watched MotoGP, and seen them braking for a turn with the back tire in the air should be able to figure out what wheel is doing most of the braking.

Again: Physics. It's the law.

I can say I've never used the rear brake on a street going motorcycle.

derf & avatard

Mr "Red" lives in CO and wants to do what he wants and how he wants to do it. He feels everything is under control when he has the bars and he is willing to take his chances.

Mr Blue races ( vintage ) and is a ATGATT guy.

( derf is correct, the helmet stats listed aren't totally true. but hey, he was on a roll :lol: )

I see both sides and fully respect both sides. I live in PA where helmets are optional. I never leave my driveway without leather jacket, full face helmet, boots and gloves. My choice and that's what I want to wear when I ride.

If you wish to ride without gear that improves your chances of survival, feel free to do so. Also make sure you have all your ducks in a row in case some inattentive person takes you out.

I don't want the .gov telling me what to do, I should be responsible for my own well being.

I'll say 90% front brake and 10% rear brake. There are a couple S turns on my way to work where a light application of rear brake makes the bike even more stable and better tracking.

I back shit in all the time. There's a time and place for the back brake. Most people would do well to stay far the fuck away from it, though.