No need for brakes at all, and you'll be amazed at how easy it is once you learn it.
How different are the balance points between hang5s and karlkruisers?I'm tempted to learn kks first since you can step into them until you lock the balance point. If they are similar enough to hang5s it might be worth it not having to throw myself over the bars a bajillion times.Elbow glides also look like a similar balance point except that you are leaned way forward to get your elbow low enough to hold the seat. Which of the two are closer to a hang5?Thanks,-Andy