HOW TO BRAKE TAP || Private Lesson Ep.15

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Join me as I teach a private session with Daniel at Tomahawk Mx. This is episode 15 of a series I've created so that my riders have something to reference after class, and so all of you can learn a thing or two!
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Instagram: @ajcatanzaro
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[@Moto_Mills]

Hearing you reiterate you’re not going to go over the bars has me excited to work on this next weekend.

[@AjCatanzaro]

I promise you won’t, as long as you’re not already in an endo before you hit them

[@Matt-sn2ub]

It's second nature. Literally pick your foot up, pull in the clutch and give the brake a TINY little poke. Feels even cooler than it looks. One of my favorite things to do on the bike

[@bolas_dirtbike2066]

Same

[@kelsigraham4415]

Finally someone who explains break tapping in a simple straight forward way definitely helpful thanks!

[@jeffreymorgan5917]

Wow hes getting better. Great coaching Aj!

[@BrandonONeal1]

Daniel is the perfect student! He listens well, is confident, and commits!

[@markd2858]

Thanks again for a new lesson. As a 50 plus rider that has never brake tapped I think I'll give it a try next time I'm out now that I know its not going to throw my front end down. I appreciate the lessons.

[@skigod9]

Brake tapping was so hard and it took so long for me to learn then one day it clicked and it was a game changer

[@kieranmacca9370]

It took me so long to get the hang of this, but now its just second nature. Keep the vids coming!

[@Fenmore50]

Great videos AJ! Rode for the first time this season and some of your tips have helped tremendously.

[@quadintheuk8870]

Fantastic coaching AJ 👏 Your experience,skill and people skills are first class buddy

[@midwestmuskysquad]

Hey man good race at Daytona looked like a tough one were rooting for ya u know we love the brake taps

[@DonGH97]

I wish i had a private lesson from you dude! You are so calm and professional it’s great. Love the video’s and positive vibes man cheers👍🏻🍻

[@ThePBSamuel]

So good! Thank you Aj (and Daniel)

[@rcafmaintainer3723]

I stalled my 2002 YZ250F back in the day, and luckily I was in the down slope for landing, it started right away. It was an eerie feeling not hearing anything. It does start to feel like the bike is diving even more.

[@ShiftGearsMoto]

I always, like a lot of people, assumed it would throw you harder, but it seems pretty mellow. Time to finally learn how to brake tap - thanks for the tips.

[@nch-wf3tu]

For those never to this track,that last jump is pretty big. Good job!

[@ribbledean4111]

Aj you seem like a great coach, it’s so hard to explain the proper way to do stuff to a kid! Awesome helpful vlog thank u man! Definitely going to have kids watch it

[@AjCatanzaro]

Thank you!

[@budfox4368]

THANKS SO MUCH BRO! BEST EXPLAINATION BY FAR!

[@JFred2]

Not sure if you’re taking requests but this vid reminded me how much I’d appreciate if you could do a how to “tire/wheel tap” vid... Shokingly i haven’t been able to find a SINGLE one one anywhere on web. There are roughly 3,000 how to wheelie vids but they’re all solely focused on how to do a balanace wheelie from a slow/starting position. That’s cool and all but no where near as practical as learning how to wheel/tire tap at speed over bumps, into whoops, etc. Thanks in advance for your consideration, AJ!

[@AjCatanzaro]

100% will due this. I’m also a tire tap master 😬😬 There was a section today of super big rollers that I was teaching a student to tire tap but my dang GoPro died. Thanks for the suggestion

[@AjCatanzaro]

Do*

[@JFred2]

Awesome- much appreciated in advance, AJ! And given it’ll be the only such vid on the internet, feel free to give me a shoutout once it hits 10M views: )

[@metricmoto]

Super sick coaching! Thanks

[@52yamahar1]

Nicely explained an great camera views 👌🏻

[@busybeans87]

This is something along with the ever so popular, seat bounce, that i have to get confident doing

[@nyhusdieter4086]

Really great job Albert , from the both of you . I must be looking for some teacher like you over her in Germany ..... TX a lot

[@bradleylb5003]

The POV slowed down video is awesome!

[@HonRon211]

First! Excited to learn!

[@ballou1777]

Excellent camera work on this one

[@tylernewsome217]

Saw you in the pits at Daytona, was gonna stop by but you looked busy. Awesome job on the lessons and vlogs

[@AjCatanzaro]

Thanks!

[@birdystyle420]

lol my first time brake tapping i did the same thing, I didnt know i was supposed to pull the clutch in. Except it was on a 450 over a mid size jump.That front end was dropping fast!!!! SCARY

[@250txc]

Great riding technically explained!

[@suzukikid69]

I have to thank you AJ, you help so much with these youtube videos. I improved so much since i started watching your videos so thank you 🫡

[@AjCatanzaro]

Thanks for watching!

[@stuarthipkins8336]

My 1st race 1971..scrambles walden ny..they oiled track to keep dust down.I crashed turn 1..14 yrs old.#968..

[@stuarthipkins8336]

I need to learn this thx.

[@OldManLuffy]

When I was practicing this it was on a 60ft tabletop and my nose wasn't high enough I was about level and my clutch finger slipped off before I hit my brake and the bike shut off so the tire when from rotating at 4th gear 70% throttle on a yz450f and I nose dived over my handlebars and thought I was dying lol felt like I couldn't breathe for an hour but it was 20-30 seconds.

[@knolysjohnson7244]

I know you love the Kx 100, I got a bone stock 100 from 2008 and the thing rips lol

[@yamahondazuki95]

Shout out to the Walden playboy track! That's awesome 🤘🤘 I rember being young watching kids rip on the 60's and 85's just sending it bigger then dudes on the 125's and 250's. Who's knows that could have been you and Barcia 🤷‍♂️ just subbed 👍

[@AjCatanzaro]

Haha! Thanks!

[@ivanafeelcool9143]

I honestly never knew people thought brake tapping was hard or it would cause weird things to happen. First time I did it was like it was instinct when riding in the dunes. I hit a jump and the front end was super high and I just did a brake tap like I always knew what to do. With a paddle tire brake tapping is even more exaggerated because of the weight and centrifugal force of the tire compared to dirt tires. From there I did it whenever needed without any issues.

[@JFred2]

@AJ - speaking of “tapping” when are you going to do the video on “wheel tapping”?

[@RaTeDXPr0DiiGyz]

hey Aj, I have a good understanding of brake tapping and when and when not to do it, I struggle with physically doing it. I've actually adjusted my riding style to rely a lot on seat bounces to get my front end to come down. As my speed has increased I need to get this technique down. Any tips on getting the clutch in and tapping the brake?? I Struggle with the clutch aspect the most.

[@jnuxca]

I could brake tap easy on my older bike but i can't do that on my newer one, rode it for a couple of hours max so i'll figure It out but feels bad anyway ahahah

[@taylort123]

this about to be savage. i already have the hang of this but im sure ill hear a gem or two

[@evanjohnson019]

Just a quick question, When should you release the clutch when brake tapping?

[@jdavishornet]

Never tapped rear brake. Used to tap front brake if I remember correctly.

[@CodySnell_87]

So are you giving it slightly more gas off the takeoff? When your brake tapping it

[@Fixin2Ride-Official-]

Watching this video again AJ... Do you recommend trying to get the rear tire speed speed back up as you land by blipping the throttle? I see and hear a lot of riders doing this? Thanks.

[@AjCatanzaro]

You should just be getting on the gas barely before you touch the ground

[@caseysumner8674]

So do you just let off the clutch right after the brake tap with no throttle?

[@suzukimx45]

nice !!!

[@apittythefoo]

when/how do you brake tap and gear change in air?

[@kevinpeterson5779]

Is it just a quick tap and let offf and release clutch ?

[@joshhead9368]

My problem is I'm afraid to move my foot on the pedal in the air. But I'm taking it slow and gaining confidence.

[@Shrxmp]

anyone know what the music is called at tgat very start of the video??

[@danielarney9729]

Could this technique, on mellow motocross jumps, deplete forward, and rotational momentum as compared to just adj body position. I had to Adj. Stopping point a little higher up in pedal stroke of brake lever to make it a little easier in air and ground, it seemed to help, probably goes without saying, but I had it way down in travel so I wouldn't drag them all the time. Basic bike setup can help, spend 5 minutes instead of just going out, world of difference, same goes for putting shifter up one set of splines for big ass toe boots.

[@AjCatanzaro]

I would say no. You’re on the gas slightly before your wheel touches the ground anyways. Absolutely should know how to manipulate bike with body though and not completely rely on brake

[@chopfather2730]

How about when describing being level with the jump go with parallel with the jump or ramp? I'm just busting ur balls.i love your vids!

[@seanmiller2849]

Looks like even the guy disliking your vids enjoyed this one 👍

[@joslinnick]

Should you always pull the clutch in when you jump or just when you brake tap? I brake tapped once without pulling in the clutch, and the bike pitched A LOT further forward than I was expecting. I didn't crash, but it was scary.

[@510Redneck]

I know this is a year later but probably just hit it to early in the jump and it merely greatly added to the pitch you was already going to land in. I know many that do it without feathering/tapping the clutch as they brake tap (even some crazy good riders) but then when you stall out from locking the bike up you can't rev out to help correct mess ups and as he said you are landing virtually like hitting the brakes until the bike fires back up...can slide out in slippery conditions due to such or rocket ass over tin cups if a bit short. I agree, nothing worse than a nose dive.... I ate shit a billion times that way trying to learn with nobody to teach me because I thought my dumb ass could just position my body anywhere and cream big jumps without issues... I was always nose up... nose down way longer then I ever should have been... a smart man probably would have figured it out rather quickly but for whatever reason I was being completely dumb in that concept so ended up getting the tap and gas it out down before even a decent consistent body positioning to where I wasn't risking eating shit every jump. LOL I believe if I didn't have to experiment and learn the hard way of how to ride a track decently my ass would still be riding to this day right along with my brother whom I taught to ride. The lessons this man provides has probably saved not only many limbs from aches and pains but also possibly lives no doubt.

[@jasonmizejr8227]

Did he move his but back or it was just cause the bike was leaning forward

[@MrPsh-xs7ul]

I can’t seem to un-death grip the bike to pull the clutch in and tap the break 🤦‍♂️

[@kylehoward8778]

Hitting the rear brake can also be helpful when trying a jump for the first time. It gives you great confidence to jump a tad nose high with the ability to still be able to level out. One question. Is it fun to ride a supermini as an adult?

[@AjCatanzaro]

Good point Yes I think it’s fun! Like a really fast pitbike

[@kylehoward8778]

Thats rad!

[@markfletcher3104]

Can u do it on a step-up

[@daledavies4987]

Do you hold in the clutch till the landing or do you let off the clutch as soon as you are done tapping the brake

[@TheSavageKids]

let off

[@genaminin]

Great

[@darrylsmijan9123]

I’m going to be a pro if I keep watching these videos lol jk but lots of great tips thanks

[@universaltravellerslodgeho4230]

Man, this is the best video I´ve seen on this. It's explained and shown really clearly. I think i might get the nerve to try it now. Especially on the big table which has a steep receiver. There's a rumor at our local track about this guy that went over the bars, and he broke his collar bone I saw him hit the ground, they say his brake locked up in the air, (I don´t know front or back). At least that's his version of what happened. After seeing that its sticks in the back of my mind and Ive been avoiding the brakes like a landmine. Is there anyway you could screw it up? Like if you have really touch brakes, or if you like stomp on it? Thanks for the great videos.

[@kaic9712]

Your brakes aren’t going to lock up, worst thing that would happen is your brake doesn’t work so brake failure then your nose doesn’t go down the guy almost certainly kept is his foot stomped on the brake good luck and MAKE SURE to pull your clutch

[@kaic9712]

Practice just pulling your clutch in while you’re in the air like 5 times then tap the brake slightly just enough to make you land even on the jump

[@jacobfrancisco7580]

haha the first time I tried a break tap my brain thought "oh lets keep holding the back break and not let off of it" and when I landed I almost flipped over the bars I don't know how I saved that

[@Fixin2Ride-Official-]

Great Video AJ! Someone told me that you can also tap the front brake to change your land angle? I didn't think that this would be a good idea personally.? What do you have to say about that and why? Thanks! P.S. 43 yr old here, learning all I can!

[@AjCatanzaro]

Thanks! And do not grab front brake in the air! Pretty dangerous

[@Fixin2Ride-Official-]

@@AjCatanzaro Yw. Exactly. I never even would have thought of doing something like. It was my crazy neighbor. Hes hurt himself many times when younger so his advice is always taken with a grain of salt. Wish I had more guys to ride with around me. There are a couple of open tracks though. Dont know if I quite yet ready to hit one of those.... Ill keep watching your vids for now. Thanks again. Im on the east coast so its well past my bed time. Talk to ya later and thx for the quick response. Andrew

[@luisaramon7068]

What’s break taping

[@ccorbin18]

Great job, Daniel! AJ can you help out a 35 year old? Next time you are in MA,RI, or CT I'd like a lesson

[@AjCatanzaro]

I only offer private lessons at Budds creek or tomahawk mx, but you’re welcome to join any of my group classes in your area!

[@ccorbin18]

@@AjCatanzaro I definitely will. Thank you

[@rogersracing5058]

I’ve always had the question after break tapping in the air can I let the clutch out or do I have to give gas and let off or do I wait till landing. WhAt?

[@AjCatanzaro]

Good question. You can let the clutch out after you tap the brake

[@rogersracing5058]

@@AjCatanzaro okay thank you

[@s7ok3d54]

Tried to learn a brake tap for the first time on a 12m table, On my 450 enduro bike... Didn't pull the clutch Over jumped it And worst of all, didn't take my foot off the rear brake..... Basically, ticked every don't do this box

[@AjCatanzaro]

Well, now you know 😂

[@maxandreev27]

Hello! What is more effective: braking in the air with a rear brake or front? Are pros more likely to use the rear brake for this?

[@j-mx8021]

The front brake wont do anything

[@AjCatanzaro]

NEVER hit the front brake in the air!

[@kelrobins7476]

Please never hit front brake my friend trust me that's all I'll say lol

[@maxandreev27]

@@AjCatanzaro I saw only one person who used the front brake for this, it surprised me. It also works, as did the man who has been traveling since the 80s and to this day, he began to ride the CZ. Thank you for explaining everything! With the virus, of course, all races were canceled, it remains only to train.

[@FradetotheLIMIT]

How do you bring up the front after brake tapping?

[@AjCatanzaro]

Throttle!

[@FradetotheLIMIT]

@@AjCatanzaro do you pop the clutch out at the same time?

[@AlexBekkema]

I always take my left feet off to

[@mjones2305]

But Ronnie Mac said you want to air wheelie when you jump...

[@AjCatanzaro]

Very true

[@Rattle_canned_restorations]

I just don’t get how some of these guys are a minute + behind on race day.

[@emexduzentos]

ewok Racing is racing, all these guys are tough as nail! They deserve lots of admiration and respect doesn't matter the final result. Thanks AJ, awesome video!

[@dawsonstarkey4355]

Why do you have to pull the clutch in?

[@AjCatanzaro]

If not, the bike will stall in the air

[@dawsonstarkey4355]

@@AjCatanzaro holy crap! Thanks man! Love your riding

[@TheYesmanHD]

ai laik dis

[@redrive6874]

I didnt know Johnny Sins also taught moto cross

[@tomnekuda3818]

Make sure the first time you try this, you're near the ambulances. ......

[@brockhammond9575]

Watch the video on my channel of what happens when you don’t pull in your clutch. I did a frontflip 😂

[@Kawiisaki]

Brock Hammond dude that looked so cleeean too dang

[@jaredleavermx94]

20,001 view

[@ttt69420]

Brake tapping never seemed to be very effective to me, at least relative to how much energy it takes. A good skill to learn, but outside of supercross, rarely needed. And if you're not already pitching the bike forward with your body, it won't do anything.

[@whackinducks]

you bald af 😂