Few Pointers which i came across random websites--
Mr. X--I've been to various performance riding courses, and most (not all) insist that you DO NOT cover the brake. They say when you have an "oh crap" moment you may unconsciously grab the brakes.
Another school I went to says that most lowsides in the novice level at the track are because the rider unconsciously grabs some brake.
They say to cover it when you're anticipating a need to use it...approaching the corner at the track...but immediately removing it when you know you won't need it...like when you've gotten all your braking done for corner entry.
On the street I follow the same advice. I'll cover it when I'm anticipating a need, like when I'm in traffic, or going around a blind corner while not leaned over. If I'm ever leaned over I will make sure my fingers are off the brakes.
Mr. Y--(advise to those who favor pumping)
wow you're not serious are you? who or where did you get the idea to do something that dangerous and innefective?
First of all the shit they taught car drivers a couple decades ago to pump the brake is stupid but aimed at people who are not really competent enough to control a car.
When you apply the brakes on a motorcycle in a gradual and firm manner. While braking with the bike straight up and down in dry weather you squeeze the lever smoothly and can do so all the way until the lever goes hard. Do not try and pulse the lever.
few links-
Motorcycle Riding Pacing Tips - Sport Rider
Trail braking - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
On road, finish off the braking prior to apex-ing a corner, it is good to arrive slow and ride out fast instead of arriving fast and looking like a stupid trying to brake/countersteer/look through out the corner at the same time.