Originally Posted by DScott

Brakes (and braking) is not a binary proposition. You're allowed to use them in graduated amounts.

Almost all bicycle brakes can lock up either wheel quite easily, and once locked up, there is NO traction on that wheel. Not a good thing.

While the majority of braking comes from the front wheel, I aim to apply just enough pressure to maximize front and rear braking, just short of breaking loose. When you're depending on a tire-to-road interface that consists of two square inches of rubber, I say use as much brake as you have available.