What is the recommended braking technique when descending a long downgrade?

When descending a long downgrade, the recommended braking technique is to brake lightly to control speed. This method helps maintain a safe and manageable speed without overheating the brakes or causing them to fade. It is important in heavy vehicles where optimal control during a descent is crucial.

Braking lightly allows the driver to adjust their speed smoothly and prevents excessive wear on the braking system, which is vital during prolonged descents. This technique also aids in maintaining traction and stability, reducing the risk of losing control due to sudden braking or weight shifts.

While other options might seem viable, they do not promote the safest approach for managing vehicle speed on long downgrades. Continuous braking can lead to brake overheating, applying hard brakes can cause skid or loss of control, and shifting gears without proper monitoring of speed can be risky without first controlling the vehicle's rate of descent.