I see it in the youtube comments a lot. Why is this?
If I understand your question, the theory goes that if you keep your hands on the brake and clutch you will be slightly engaging them and causing them to wear sooner. Particularly the brake as it could cause the rotor to heat up and you could get brake fade when you need it most. I've found that people on line like to express negative comments more than giving actual facts or opinions. I find that I do both when in traffic I usually keep a couple of fingers on the brake and clutch BUT when I'm cursing down the highway or open road I've been known to take my left hand off the handle bars and ride one handed. Which isn't very safe thing to do I know.
It's a habbit with most. It may also mean that your rear brake light keeps going on/off (If you're putting any pressure on the lever, and not notice it) which might confuse the vehicle behind. I think it's mainly about having full control over the bike, which is said to be better when both hands are fully on the handlebars around the grips.
I cover it whenever I am in heavy traffic. I don't depress it enough to light up the brake lights, and I have had no problems with premature wear on the front disc. I usually have 2 fingers over it when I think I might need it. They just float there above it, ready to work if I think I might need them. (I have pretty strong hands and can brake so hard the ABS triggers on my FatBoy, just with those 2 fingers.) Personally, I think it's a good habit to be in, as long as you don't keep flashing your brake lights or wear out your disc. If neither of those is happening, then you are doing fine.
