Sogno, just so you know I was taught the same thing as Saki at my MSF course, where it was a rule to keep all four fingers covering the break during the riding sessions. I remember the instructors even specifically saying not to use the two finger technique that they said is very popular in motocross, for reasons similar to what Saki mentioned (fingers pinched or blocking etc).

Perhaps it's just a matter of what people have learned over the years. Some prefer one way, others prefer the other. As long as you practice it all the time so that you are comfortable, you should be fine in an emergency.

 

I was taught all 4 fingers are bad because then you are trying to control throttle with just your thumb and palm. And on sport bikes with very sensitive throttles that can cause an issue.

 

Again, personal preference.

I am curious though - for those that choose to ride with all fingers on the grip, and then brake by reaching: how are you rolling off the throttle while braking? That is, in an emergency stop, you are reaching with 4 fingers for the brake lever. How are you also rolling off the throttle as you are executing this reach/grab?

 

Most MSF courses are in regards to MOST bikes. I'm assuming we're talking about sportbikes here.

Most sportbikes have significantly greater brake torque than single rotored, two/single pistoned standard bikes. The braking hardware and the weight/wheelbase difference means you have to change some of the thinking about everyting you've been taught. Jamming on the brakes with the full might of you hands will load so much of the weight on the front you cannot control it. Avg Sportbike weighs 440 pounds, make that weight move and try to stop it rapidly and you're asking your two arms to holdup more than the weight of the bike in momentum energy.

On a bike you are better off swerving than trying to come to a stop. But you failed to mention that you must choose the approriate speed. Swerving usually requires you to reduce speed, or moderately increase speed. Riding alert and prepared lets you make this decision.

As far as your riding position it depends on street or track. But in general Balls of feet on the Pegs, two fingers covering the brake. I also think you're supposed to sit as close to the tank as possible, keeping you mass as centered as possible.

 

By two fingers on the brake lever, are you referring to your pinky and ring fingers? I've never given it much thought beyond what I was taught, but I'm up for trying the two finger approach.

As for locking wheels under braking, I thought that if you feel the rear lock up and quickly modulate the brake, you won't skid long and can recover, but if the front locks up for a second, it can throw your balance off and toss you, especially if you let off the brake.

 

I assumed 2 fingers referred to index and middle, but I may be wrong. Pinky and ring would make better sense in terms of maintaining throttle control.

 

I roll off using my thumb while emergency breaking or for blipping the throttle while downshifting into a turn, granted I have decently large hands but see no reason why that can be done with good control for most people.

Personally I find it easier to modulate the amount of breaking force applied when I use 4 fingers instead of 2, but that is also a self control issue. I also tend to not activate the anti-lock break system in my car during most semi-emergency breaking situations because I keep from slamming on the pedal.

 

I've always used the index and middle fingers on the levers, but that's what people are usually taught on a dirt bike. I wouldn't think street bike riders would be taught any different, though.

 

Usually "covering the brake" refers to the index and middle finger.