On a relaxed cruise yesterday (45 mph), I encountered a full grown doe about to enter the road about 100 feet in front of me.  I reacted like an ABS system, pumping both front and rear brakes hard three times.  The deer startled and turned back away from the road.  I was pleased for two things:  I didn't hit the deer and that the car following me was far enough back not to run me over.  Whew! 

Nice going!   

Glad you didn't collect the animal.  Rather than me give you advice do some reading on how to stop quickest on a non ABS bike.  The key is practice - like in a parking lot.  Every bike is different so you need to learn the one you're riding.  ABS systems modulate the brake hydraulic pressure MANY times per second and based on input from wheel speed sensors keep the brakes from locking.

For shortest stopping distance, that's what you need to do.  On most bikes and DRY pavement you can usually pull the front lever very hard but you have to be careful with the rear.  I've seen too many over application of rear.  You'll get the bike sideways and then when you dump the rear the bike will spit you off.  OR you'll low side.  Or high side.  None good.

Again, glad you missed the animal but I'm not sure pumping the brakes three times will save you every time.  Practice.  Practice.  Practice. 

Quote from: rkjjeep on October 03, 2011, 05:29:12 PM
On most bikes and DRY pavement you can usually pull the front lever very hard but you have to be careful with the rear.  I've seen too many over application of rear.  You'll get the bike sideways and then when you dump the rear the bike will spit you off.  OR you'll low side.  Or high side.  None good.

Glad you made it out unscathed.  Keep in mind that the harder you brake the front, the lighter the rear end gets so it is easier to lock up the rear under heavy braking.  It seems counter intuitive but in a fast stop you have to be lighter on the rear brakes   

-Jessie

Good Thinking.  Glad you made out OK.  Nothing spoils a ride and future rides than a mishap.