Actually, this is less dangerous than riding a bronc with a saddle, but
more difficult to stay aboard.
Balance is all-important, since the cowboy is without benefit of
stirrups or saddle and must depend upon his knees for controlling his
position on the horse. One hand holds the halter and the other must
swing free, never touching the horse.
Even the good bareback riders are often thrown, but the fall as a rule
is “clean” and results only in the cowboy being thoroughly jarred.
[Illustration: BIG BRAHMA AND COWBOY PART COMPANY]