If you think this spindle will make you a fast spinner you will be disappointed but if other wheels are too slow for you this could be perfect. The wind resistance on the flyer is the brake. If you want to pull the yarn harder you need to treadle a little faster. When you want to stop spinning you need to put your thumb on the flyer to stop it. If you don't it will continue to spin and turn the yarn into a big knot. The head has a brake that can help control the speed while you learn to use the full speed.