Question 1

What is BrakeCheck and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

BrakeCheck is a free motorcycle braking performance tool that uses your phone's built-in GPS and motion sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope) to measure real-world braking metrics. Mount your phone on your handlebars, ride at a set speed, brake hard, and BrakeCheck captures your braking distance, deceleration force (G), and reaction time.

Question 2

What is a good motorcycle braking distance?

Accepted Answer

From 60 mph, a skilled rider on a modern sport bike with good tires can stop in about 120–140 feet. From 30 mph, expect 30–40 feet. Factors that affect braking distance include tire condition, brake pad quality, road surface, weather, and rider skill. BrakeCheck helps you measure your actual braking distance so you can track improvement.

Question 3

How do I practice emergency braking on a motorcycle?

Accepted Answer

Practice in a safe, empty parking lot. Start at low speeds (20 mph) and progressively increase. Apply both front and rear brakes simultaneously, squeeze the front brake progressively (don't grab), keep your eyes up and arms slightly bent, and practice until muscle memory develops. BrakeCheck measures your performance so you can track improvement over time.

Question 4

Why is motorcycle braking training important?

Accepted Answer

Emergency braking is the single most critical survival skill for motorcyclists. Studies show that many motorcycle accidents occur because riders either don't brake hard enough or brake incorrectly (locking the rear wheel, not using enough front brake). Regular practice reduces stopping distance and builds the muscle memory needed in emergencies.

Question 5

Does BrakeCheck work with any motorcycle?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BrakeCheck works with any motorcycle—sportbikes, cruisers, adventure bikes, standards, and scooters. The tool measures your phone's GPS and motion data, so it works regardless of motorcycle type. Just mount your phone securely on the handlebars and make sure GPS is enabled.

Question 6

How much braking force should I use on the front vs rear brake?

Accepted Answer

On most motorcycles, roughly 70% of braking force comes from the front brake and 30% from the rear. During hard braking, weight transfers forward, giving the front tire more grip. Use both brakes together—progressively squeeze the front and apply steady pressure on the rear. Avoid grabbing the front brake suddenly, which can cause a front wheel lockup.

Question 7

What is a good deceleration G-force when braking on a motorcycle?

Accepted Answer

A typical hard braking event produces 0.8–1.0G of deceleration on a sport bike with good tires. Professional racers can achieve over 1.0G. Street riders commonly achieve 0.6–0.8G. ABS-equipped motorcycles may limit peak deceleration but provide more consistent stopping. BrakeCheck measures your actual G-force so you can benchmark your technique.

Question 8

Is BrakeCheck free to use?

Accepted Answer

Yes, BrakeCheck is completely free. Open the tool on your phone's browser, mount your phone securely, and start testing. No app download required—it runs directly in your mobile browser using your phone's built-in sensors.