Bikers have a 6^th sense, it is called logical sense.

Braking Techniques for beginners is an art that is best mastered early. Be it navigation, mechanics, riding skills or handling emergency situations, I believe if and when used effectively this gift from God can prove to be a Ram-Baan. Over a decade ago while riding to work on my CBZ  back then, I started to slow down even after turning the fuel knob to reserve. All of a sudden the bike came to a grinding halt almost hurtling me to the ground in rush hour traffic.

To find the cause I tried to pull the bike to the side but it refused to budge. It had its front [disc] brakes jammed with the disc smoldering hot. With some help I parked the bike in a compound nearby. Then poured some water to cool it off. Later on, I took it to the hero Honda service station. Then I escalated the issue wherein it seemed like the brakes were “over serviced”. The brake overhaul was something recommended by the adviser. After a detailed conversation, the manager got the fault rectified to my satisfaction. Thus I figured that:

“Jo hazeer woh Vazir” –

Be present when the part/parts in question are being taken off the bike. Also, take pictures if necessary should the case of mitigation arise. Presence always gives you the edge whether you are an ace rider or technician. When it comes to ignorance or knowledge about your vehicle. On the other side desperation creates perspiration and haste makes obviously not BIRYANI. In an extreme case ride at a slow pace. But keep to the side of the roads if the vehicle is somewhat ride-able. The front discs have enough stopping power to lead you to the nearest safe house like a fuel bunk or police station if need be.

A to Z –

It’s a colloquially used term by locals in any area (well in a way) from Ace engineers to localised mechanics. There are those who do a thorough check. Before you give your vehicle to the service station, a check list made by you is helpful. In this case check for unusual brake pad wear, erosion of the discs, brake fluid leakage/air pockets and any other faults.

Second your notion –

When on a forum be it online or in friends circle check to see what they have to say. Show them your findings[as noted in 1. &2.] They may find the “photo bomber”/fault. I had changed the 1^st set of brake pads at about 7000 odd kms [too lazy to check my records]. I was like “Damn you Pulsar…” but let’s face it, it could just be incidental. In my case, instead of worn out brake pads a set of iron plates came off. But nothing like getting a 2^nd say from someone who has more experience in the matter.

Escalation –

For those of us who have had a sound education, am sure you would not be googling this term. Escalation with the authorities would have a proper channel. It’s OK to lose your cool. If the cooker never blew the prescribed number of whistles how would the cooks know whether our favourite dish is ready to serve? But then when it comes to serving they would follow a method, won’t they? Check with the resources available to you. Website, phone numbers, references etc. For the path between the customer care and consumer court, there will be a land of opportunities waiting to be explored. Do not just mudsling and a legal notice “Serve if you must”. But well decorate it with complete documentation. However whatever you do, leave the loud words and actions to the uncouth. You are a civilized lot – approach the situation in a tactful manner.

Do keep in mind these “Braking Techniques for beginners”.