If you love off-roading, you already know that braking is one of the trickiest skills to master. One wrong move and you could end up skidding, losing control, or worse—crashing.
Our Hero Xpulse 200 is built for adventure, but knowing how to use its brakes properly can make all the difference between a smooth ride and a disaster.
So, let’s break it down in a simple way and tell you how to tackle rough terrains safely.
The Golden Rule: Front and Rear Brakes Work Together
When you’re riding on the tarmac, you rely more on the front brake (around 70%) and less on the rear brake (30%). But off-road, things change. Loose surfaces like dirt, gravel, and mud can make front-wheel braking tricky. The key is to distribute braking force between both brakes without slamming either of them too hard.
Here’s a quick rule of thumb while riding your Xpulse 200 motorcycle:
● On loose gravel, sand, or mud – Use more of the rear brake and gently feather the front brake.
● On rocky terrain – A balanced use of both brakes works best.
● On downhill slopes – Let the engine braking do part of the job and lightly use the rear brake to maintain control.
Avoiding Skids: How to Brake the Right Way
Skidding is a common issue off-road, and it happens when you lock up a wheel. Here’s how to prevent that:
1. Brake Gradually, Not Suddenly
Slamming the brakes will make your bike lose traction. Instead, apply brakes progressively—start light and gradually increase pressure as needed.
2. Use Engine Braking
Instead of depending solely on your brakes, downshift and let the engine braking slow you down naturally. This reduces the risk of locking up the wheels.
3. Stay Light on the Rear Brake
Since the rear brake doesn’t have ABS, pressing it too hard can cause a skid. Tap it lightly and release if you feel the wheel locking up.
4. Keep Your Body Position Right
Braking shifts weight forward. To counteract this:
● On descents – Shift your weight back to maintain balance.
● On flat terrain – Keep your weight neutral and knees slightly bent to absorb shocks.
● On corners – Brake before entering the turn and avoid braking mid-corner unless absolutely necessary.
Emergency Braking: What to Do If You Have to Stop Instantly
Sometimes, you need to stop right now. Maybe there’s a sudden obstacle, or you misjudge a turn. Here’s how to handle your Xpulse 200 4V in South Africa safely:
● Use both brakes but focus on the front brake – This gives the most stopping power.
● Don’t panic and slam the brakes – Squeeze the levers progressively.
● Keep your bike straight – A tilted bike is more likely to lose traction and skid.
● If the rear wheel locks up, don’t fight it – Release the brake slightly to regain traction.
Downhill Braking: Controlling the Bike on Steep Slopes
Downhills can be intimidating, especially if they’re steep and rocky. Here’s how to handle them like a pro:
● Use engine braking first – Shift to a lower gear to slow down naturally.
● Feather the rear brake – Apply gentle pressure without locking it.
● Avoid heavy front brake usage – Too much front brake on a slope can send you over the handlebars.
● Keep your weight back – This prevents the front from diving too much.
Practice Makes Perfect
Off-roading is all about skill, and braking is something you get better at with practice. Find an open dirt patch or a trail and experiment with braking techniques at different speeds and terrains. Feel how the bike responds and build your confidence step by step.
Our Hero Xpulse 200 is an incredible machine built for adventure, but even the best bike needs the right rider techniques. Mastering braking will not only keep you safe but will also make the best ROI of your invested Xpulse 200 4V price in South Africa in a fun and controlled way.
So, next time you hit the trails, remember. Stay smooth, stay balanced, and don’t panic.