Bicycle Rear Brake Left Or Right
When it comes to bicycles, one of the most important components is the brake system. It ensures that you can safely slow down or stop your bike whenever necessary. However, for beginners, it can be quite confusing to figure out which brake lever controls which brake. In this article, we'll explore whether the bicycle rear brake should be on the left or right side.
Left or Right Brake: The Basics
Traditionally, in the United States, the right-hand lever controls the rear brake, while the left-hand lever controls the front brake. However, in some countries, such as the United Kingdom and Australia, the opposite is true, with the left-hand lever controlling the rear brake.
It's important to note that the placement of the brake levers is not a matter of preference or personal choice. It's a safety feature that is regulated by law. In the US, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) requires that bicycles sold in the country have the right-hand lever control the rear brake.
Why is the Rear Brake on the Right?
The reason for this is simple: most people are right-handed, and having the rear brake on the right lever makes it easier to control the bike while using the left hand to signal a turn or change lanes. Additionally, when using the front brake, the weight of the rider shifts forward, which can cause the rear wheel to lift off the ground. This can be dangerous, especially at high speeds. By having the rear brake on the right side, it ensures that the rider can apply the rear brake without accidentally applying the more powerful front brake.
Why Some People Prefer the Rear Brake on the Left
Despite the safety regulations and the advantages of having the rear brake on the right, some people still prefer to have it on the left. One reason is that it can be easier for left-handed riders to control the bike this way. Another reason is that having the rear brake on the left can be more intuitive, especially for beginners who are used to using their left hand for the rear brake on motorcycles.
The Verdict
Ultimately, the decision of whether to have the rear brake on the left or right side is a matter of personal preference. However, for safety reasons, it's important to follow the regulations set by the CPSC and have the rear brake on the right side in the US. Regardless of which side the rear brake is on, it's important to practice using both brakes together to ensure safe and effective braking.
Conclusion
In summary, the placement of the bicycle rear brake lever is not a matter of personal preference, but rather a safety feature regulated by law. In the US, the right-hand lever should control the rear brake. However, some people still prefer to have the rear brake on the left for various reasons. Regardless of which side the rear brake is on, it's important to practice using both brakes together for safe and effective braking.