Which brake should you use when stopping?

The strongest stops come from using both brakes together, with most pressure on the front. Approximate distribution: 70% front, 30% rear. The front brake provides most of the stopping power because forward weight transfer during braking pushes weight onto the front wheel, increasing its grip. The rear brake adds additional stopping force and helps keep the motorcycle stable. The common new-rider fear of the front brake — based on the worry of flipping the bike — is largely unfounded with proper technique: apply the front brake progressively, not instantly, and squeeze it as the motorcycle settles. Practice emergency braking in a safe area until firm front-brake use becomes automatic.