What is crucial to check regarding brakes before riding?

Before riding a motorcycle, it is essential to ensure that each brake holds the motorcycle and feels firm. This is critical because the brakes are the primary safety system for the bike, allowing the rider to slow down or stop quickly when necessary. If a brake lever or pedal feels soft or spongy, it could indicate air in the brake lines or other issues that could prevent effective braking. Consistent and reliable braking performance is paramount for safe riding, as even a momentary loss of braking capability can lead to dangerous situations.

The visual inspection alone does not guarantee that the brakes are functioning properly; even if they look good, they may not operate effectively. Assuming that brakes do not need to be checked if they were functioning well previously is risky, as conditions may change or components may degrade over time. Additionally, relying only on the front brake being firm neglects the importance of the rear brake, which is equally vital for balanced stopping. Therefore, confirming that both brakes are responsive ensures that the motorcycle can stop safely and efficiently in any scenario.