What should a motorcycle use for braking on a muddy road?

Using engine braking on a muddy road is the most effective choice because it helps to maintain better control of the motorcycle. When you rely on engine braking, you are reducing speed by downshifting and letting the engine's compression slow the bike down, which can minimize the risk of losing traction. This method provides a smoother, more gradual deceleration compared to applying brakes, which can cause the tires to lock up and skid on slippery surfaces like mud.

In contrast, using only the rear brakes can lead to instability as it emphasizes less traction on the front wheel, which is critical for steering and balance. Similarly, relying solely on the front brakes could easily cause the front wheel to skid, especially on a slippery surface, which may result in loss of control. Changing gears frequently does not directly contribute to safer braking; instead, it can create additional complications without effectively addressing the primary need to slow down safely in muddy conditions.