How do you brake on downhill and flat ground? Occasionally I have been hitting like 35-45mph and thinking about it. Normally, if I need to stop fast I would squeeze the front brake for about 3 seconds, push back and put my weight on the saddle then squeeze the rear brake (while still on the front). I would hold both brakes for like 3-5 seconds and avoid obstacle or let go of just the front brake, then trail to a stop with the rear brake. If at like 15mph/cruising I do opposite, rear brake first for 3 seconds and then front brake if necessary. Its not a technique for me, just basically natural reflex.