Brake upgrade

When I was talking to Andover Norton a couple of months ago, they were expecting a batch of original front master cylinders but with a narrower piston bore to give a better cylinder area ratio. They used to do a Grimeca master cylinder and adaptor plate but have now discontinued that. Plenty of options from RGM, Norvil and Hemmings with discs and calipers - just putting a Hemmings twin disc on my mk3.

I have the Andover Norton Grimeca upgrade, chosen in part because unless you're paying mega bucks for a complete front end, I find the plethora of adaptor plates and dustbin lid sized discs rather unsightly.

Using Ferodo platinum pads with the smaller bore master cylinder completely transformed the front brake performance, I can now ride in a 'spirited' fashion, confident that I can stop or slow down on cue, which makes it all so much more enjoyable...

I've also invested in the rear cylinder upgrade too, but as yet haven't fitted same.....

The biggest benefit IMHO is probably achieved by fitting a smaller master cylinder. Ebay is awash with quality Honda items that include an adjustable span lever. The next biggest benefit is probably a better caliper. I think the least benefit is from a larger diameter disc.

I fitted a Grimeca master cylinder years ago and it was very good but a broken lever was irreplaceable, I'm running a CBR600 item now, I wouldn't go to a modified Norton item due to the cost.

I use an AP Lockheed CP3125 master cylinder which I've had for about thirty years.

It's not that they need to be adjustable but it allowed me to have a good fiddle before deciding on how I liked to have it set.

As Charles says, a decent ratio master cylinder combined with Ferodo Platinums (or NOS asbestos pads !) gives a perfectly adequate brake for 'normal' use.

However, the bike won't stand on its nose like a modern machine and the single disc reaches it's limits two-up with luggage in the mountains.

Disadvantage is the loss of the right hand switch gear which will need to be compensated for if you have the electric start thingy. Careful choice of a Japanese production item would be a way round this. A handlebar control mod will always be less obvious than a change to disc or caliper

Previously ronald_dickson wrote:

I own a 1976 Mark 3 Commando and the brakes are not all that good.

What would be a good solution to the problem, bearing in mind cost and keeping the bike looking good? eg single disc or twin disc conversions, disc upgrades, new calipers etc

ronald.

i have a 1974 850 commando owned for 28yrs.we all have had to improve the front brake to coupe with modern traffic.over the years i.ve tried a dog leg lever.googridge hose.gramica caliper and rgm re,sleeved master cylinder.and the brake was not much better.you can try floating discs twin calipers ect.ect.the list and expence can be endless.about two years ago i fitted a master cylinder off a modern triumph 955i second hand £35 and improved it to a acceptable level.if you want to keep the bike original you will have a 1970s brake.not good in modern traffic.good luck ...tony