Quote Originally Posted by Owlie View Post

Does anyone have any suggestions to help me get over this and start using the brakes when I need to?
Being able to stop when and where you want to is super-important...

First of all, what kind of brakes do you have? Hand brakes or coaster brakes?

Are they functional? (Do they work?) If you squeeze the brake levers will they grip the rim and skid the tire? When you've got the brake levers pulled all the way, can you still fit a finger between the lever and the handlebar? Do the brake pads still have enough rubber left on them?

The drill that I use as an LCI is to set up an oval course about 100 feet long, and have the student ride around that, practicing smooth starts and stops. For a smooth stop, pick where you want to stop, level your pedals, brake, unclip (if needed) and put a foot down. Let the handlebars turn in that direction to lean the bike a little and help shift your balance and weight from the bike to the grounded foot. I make 'em practice until they're getting it right, doing it consistently, and feel comfortable with the process...