In most countries, motorcycles are designed with the front brake lever on the right-hand side of the handlebar. This arrangement is primarily due to historical and cultural factors, as well as considerations for ergonomics and rider control.
Historical and cultural factors: The arrangement of motorcycle controls, including the position of the brake lever, has evolved over time. Early motorcycles were often equipped with hand-operated controls on the right side, as many early motorcycles were adapted from bicycles with right-side handbrakes. This convention has persisted and become standardized in many regions.
Ergonomics and rider control: Placing the front brake lever on the right side allows the rider to operate the throttle with their right hand and control the rear brake with their right foot simultaneously. This setup is more intuitive for most riders since the right hand is typically the dominant hand for fine motor control. Having the front brake lever on the right allows riders to modulate the brake more precisely, especially in emergency situations.
Consistency with other vehicles: Motorcycles share the road with other vehicles, such as cars and bicycles. Keeping the motorcycle controls consistent with other vehicles makes it easier for riders to transition between different types of vehicles. In many countries, cars are designed with the brake pedal on the right side, which aligns with the front brake lever position on motorcycles.
It's worth noting that there are exceptions to this convention. In some countries, particularly in Europe, motorcycles are designed with the front brake lever on the left side. This configuration is more common for motorcycles originating from those regions and may have different historical and cultural influences.
Ultimately, the specific positioning of the front brake lever is a result of various factors, including historical practices, cultural norms, rider ergonomics, and considerations for rider control and safety.