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I am wondering if there is any advantage to engine braking, by downshifting, to primarily using the front and rear brakes simultaneously. Specifically, is one method more mechanically healthy for a bike? If it matters, I have a 2002 Shadow ACE. Thanks.

Ducatti manual said to "use brakes for emergencies only" Course that was in the 60s that the manual was dated. On some real old harleys it was said that running under compression helped oil the rear cylinder. Especially in break-in. Thats what HD said in the 40's. Another case of Old Skool vs New Technology.

Nothing wrong with engine braking. Just remember to blip the throttle when you're down shifting to get the revvs up a bit before you re-engage the clutch. Don't get frustrated if it's not the smoothest at first, it can take some practice.

The only advantage is that the front and rear brakes will stop you faster and smoother. Engine breaking done properly won't harm the engine over the extra wear you're putting on it which typically isn't too much

i do both. sometimes 1 or the other. sometimes in combination. coming down a long hill before turning onto my road i always engine brake most of the way until the end. same getting off a ramp from the highway. but quick stops I'll pull the clutch and apply both brakes.

No real negatives for engine braking

Not sure how to reply to this one really but here goes,
Engine braking:
Unlikely to lock the rear tire (as long as you're in a suitable gear for your speed)
Keeps your hand covering the throttle - if you're just slowing whilst waiting for the lights to change or similar (laziness at its finest )

Real brakes:
Really brake well.
Independant brakes front and rear means you can adjust the balance of the bike under braking load better, in slippy conditions - enging braking is all on the rear tyre


All I can really say is just use all 3 to adapt as necessary to the various situations, you'll encounter

I prefer slowing with engine braking and downshifting. HOWEVER, there is the issue of not informing following drivers/riders of your intention. Overall, I use both techniques depending on the riding condition, location and situation

Remember to flash your brake lights if you are downshifting to brake so that you don't get run over.

Keeps your hand covering the throttle - if you're just slowing whilst waiting for the lights to change or similar (laziness at its finest )

I prefer "laid back", thank you very much

Use both.

If you're going down a long hill and don't use engine braking, you risk a higher chance of overheating your brakes which could result warped discs and maybe even boiling your brake fluid. Boiling your brake fluid is bad news as the fluid expands and leads to failure.

No one knows this better than truck drivers travelling through the Rockiesl.

thanks for the responses guys. its always good to know.

I tend to do a little of both. I when and stop sign or red light is involved i downshift (my truck driving backround) into corners, down shift. emergency and hard breaking just breaks. I think it depend. Hey what do I know , I'm a noob.....)