[Tapoutorpassout5]

I just had a quick question about brake lever positioning, i was told the other day that it is best to brake with one finger and move your lever closer in on the bars so that you are braking on the end of the lever which would give you more leverage.. Just wanted to know if this was true and get the advantages and disadvatages on one finger and two finger braking...Or if really it all just comes down to what the rider likes...

Thanks...

 

[Call_me_Clyde]

Its personal preference

The number of different replies that you will get to this question will be proof positive. Use what works for you and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

Bob

 

[Maida7]

I just can't do it with just one finger. I always use two fingers. I like mine pointing down and I adjust the reach so the lever is closer to the bar. I get more grip power the more closed my hand is.

 

[eatdrinkride]

one finger is nice but you need proper fitting levers and good brakes to make this work. You can keep better control on the bars b/c that extra finger makes a big difference. I wish I could use 1 finger braking for the technical stuff but I have smallish hands and seem to have to use 2 fingers, even with my Dangerboy levers.

 

[Tapoutorpassout5]

i have Hayes HFX-9 hydraulic brakes so im thinking the brakes should be good enough.

 

[heavyg]

to each his own

But here's my unvarnished opinion:

I LOVE one finger braking. As mentioned, the extra control from having the middle finger on the handlebar rather than the brake lever is a BIG advantage to me. I also like to set up my levers so they are quite close to the bar, making them easy to grab for, and I think it also helps make it easier to pull harder when you aren't stretching to reach for it.

Qualifiers:
I am big (210+) and have big hands and strong fingers.
I ride East Coast singletrack- i.e. lots of ups and downs, very few long fast downhills
I have used Shimano XT, XTR, Avid mechs, and Hayes.

Hope this helps- I strongly encourage everyone to at least give it a try for a few rides. It does take some getting used to, and I am sure that finger strength improves over time too.

 

[Legbacon]

1 Finger

I always setup me levers so that the index finger is inline with the end of the lever. You are not using your brakes to their maximum mechanical advantage if you are not using the end. 1 or 2 fingers depends on the brakes and you but I see so many levers snugged up to the grips and honestly don't know how people can ride like that.