Lamonster Hand Brake

[Lamonster]

I get more calls, PM's and emails about how I made a hand brake work on the Spyder that I thought I would show you how I did it. I won't be doing any kits for this mod so don't ask. ;) The real reason is to maybe give you some ideas on how it could be done. This is just a Lamonster way of doing it. :doorag:

I used a Moose Racing Fly Clutch Assembly just because that's what a local dealer had. I'm sure you could find something to work in it's place.

I used a Suzuki M109R clutch cable because that's what I had laying around. I had to straiten the one end a bit to get it to work. I'm sure you can find a better cable too.

The rest was just a little fab work. I tried doing this as a bolt up deal because I really didn't want to take the peddle off and weld on it but after many many trys to get that to work right I decided to give in and weld that sucker. I should have done that in the first place because it was really no big deal. ::)

You can click on the pics to make them bigger.

These are the parts that had to be made.
http://img2.putfile.com/thumb/4/11817414268.jpg (http://www.putfile.com/pic/8065162)

I had a alignment hole to gage where I needed it to be welded.
http://img2.putfile.com/thumb/4/11817414341.jpg (http://www.putfile.com/pic/8065163)

The stock pin is back in the clevis now and is not bolted to my bracket like it was before. Here a couple of shots of the brake arm bolted up.
http://img2.putfile.com/thumb/4/11817414346.jpg (http://www.putfile.com/pic/8065164)http://img2.putfile.com/thumb/4/11817414326.jpg (http://www.putfile.com/pic/8065165)

The cable goes to the top hole and the two bolts have washers to space it out so the cable can move.
http://img2.putfile.com/thumb/4/11817414331.jpg (http://www.putfile.com/pic/8065166)http://img2.putfile.com/thumb/4/11817414325.jpg (http://www.putfile.com/pic/8065167)

I'm pretty darn happy with it now. I don't have any binding issues like I had before and I have a good hard brake now. I still need to run it to see how good it really is but I expect at lease 90 to 95% brakes with the lever.

Here's a little video of it working. This is a little better quality video. http://media.putfile.com/welded-hand-brake

R2NBDlIwxvI

[Magic Man]

Hey where'd you get the idea to weld it to the brake arm barrel? :bigthumbsup:

[Lamonster]

Hey where'd you get the idea to weld it to the brake arm barrel? :bigthumbsup:


I had the idea I was just trying to get around it. ;)

[Magic Man]

Great minds think alike! :agree:

[LittleJohn]

Thanks Lamont, and MagicMan!!!
I know youve both been working on a very simialr system.
Im glad you posted this, as I was about to contact both of you soon for some good pics and thoughts on your systems.
I understand about not wanting to provide kits and all, but would either of you be willing to provide some measured drawings and or parts lists for your setups?

Did you both end up with about thesame angle and length of pull? If not, any guesses on which one provides more positive braking?

Thanks again, as Im sure you remember I will be installing this type setup on mine as I will have limited use of the foot brake without applying my whole foot (thats how I did the test drive, it worked but not comfortable in emergency situations) and this would provide me a lil more peace of mind.

Thanks guys!!! :bigthumbsup:

[Magic Man]

I had this set up type of system on my Spyder in Daytona when Lamonster came to see me. He had the same idea but was not sure how it would all work out till he say how good mine worked. Then he went back and made a real nice system for his too. He is the best at photos and such, however I don't know now that both of our bikes are together if a drawing is possiable as the parts are all welded together at least on mine. Maybe Lamonster made a drawing of his bracket as he is real good at keeping a log of his mods? The photos he has here show real nice how he did it and it looks pretty clear on what to do. If you need any advice I'd be glad to talk to you on phone anytime. Lamonster has a real nice lower bracket picture here and I think you might be able to use it as a good guide for yours.

[Lamonster]

Like MM said I saw his setup in Daytona and his worked better than my bolt-up setup. I was able to use the same bracket and just scoot it over and weld it. I think the fact that there is no slop now and the cable has a good strait pull is what made it work for me. You can pretty much make the top bracket first and then make the bottom bracket to fit the top with the right angle. It's not that hard of a job. :doorag:

[LittleJohn]

Thanks guys!!!
Ill get mine tore apart and take a look at it when I get it, and Im sure I can fab up something from all your descriptions and pics.

[trikester]

Lamonster, have you looked at the possibility of having the cable end move freely through the barrel that connects it to the bracket you made and welded to the brake pedal? In other words, passing through the little barrel with a stop-bead on the cable end.

I ask this because I once made a setup for a hand brake on the rear brake pedal of a dual sport. I still had the normal hand brake for the front disk and then another right side hand brake lever so I could drag the rear brake when "tripoding" with both feet, going down steep, sandy, drop-offs. I found that I didn't like the cable slacking when I used the foot pedal for braking so I rigged it up to allow the cable end to slip through, when the foot pedal would try to push it up. I liked the setup much better after that.

Frank

[Lamonster]

I didn't try that but I'm sure it would work great. Mine works fine the way it is for me and the lever doesn't move when to step on the brakes but it is a little loose like you say.

[Lamonster]

Just got back from a little ride to town and back (about 100 miles) and the hand brake is working great. :bigthumbsup: I can't wait to show the BRP guys at the Homecoming! :doorag:

Like I thought I have about 90 to 95% brake and I was able to panic stop with it but I found if I pumped the brake once I could lock it up if need be. I'm very happy now and I think you guys that have limited or no use of your right leg will do just fine with this setup. Now the only downside I can see is cables do break and if that's all you were counting on that could be bad. :yikes: Mine is more for keeping my good habits of using the front brake first and then the rear.

[LittleJohn]

Cool!!!



...the only downside I can see is cables do break and if that's all you were counting on that could be bad.


Believe me, Ive had this in my mind as well. I can still brake with the foot if I rock my hip forward, or slide my whole foot onto the pedal. I will probably make it a habit to keep the foot at the ready to back up the cable system.
Thanks again for all the help!

[Last Spyder]

:bigthumbsup:Now that you have had the brake on there, how do you like the hand brake. I really do not like the foot brake and am interested.

[Lamonster]

:bigthumbsup:Now that you have had the brake on there, how do you like the hand brake. I really do not like the foot brake and am interested.


I love it. This was the second day riding with it and I don't use the foot brake much at all now. :doorag:

[Dyno824]

Thanks for taking the time to post pics and info, i will be going this route. Thanks

[NancysToy]

What purpose do the two bolts serve?
-Scotty

[Lamonster]

What purpose do the two bolts serve?
-Scotty


They space and hold the barrel in place but alow it to move in the bracket.

[pphantom538]

Great idea & execution. Now we'll have to wait until someone comes up with a kit so the mechanically declined (sic) rest of us can convert.

[NancysToy]

They space and hold the barrel in place but alow it to move in the bracket.

Thanks! Not having had it apart, I just wasn't sure. Knew there had to be a good reason not to weld in a spacer.
-Scotty

[Lamonster]

Thanks! Not having had it apart, I just wasn't sure. Knew there had to be a good reason not to weld in a spacer.
-Scotty


I guess I could have welded in a spaced but this worked just as good and if I go with a larger cable I can add a washer if need be.

[SpyderGimp]

Toyota slave cylinder behind the factory slave to a Brembo Master on the handlebars...works great!
http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm53/dswisher1/SpyderBrake008.jpg

[LittleJohn]

Toyota slave cylinder behind the factory slave to a Brembo Master on the handlebars...works great!
http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm53/dswisher1/SpyderBrake008.jpg


Excellent!!!
Looks great! Did you fab the "yoke" that ataches it to the pedal point or is that off the shelf for something else?

[Lamonster]

Nice job. :bigthumbsup: I didn't think about running hard line to the slave but that will work great if you then run a flex to the master. :bigthumbsup:

[Derwin]

I don't get it. The foot brake on the Spyder is for the back or front? You installed a HAND brake for the FRONT? So does this mean that when you press on the foot break, it is ONLY for the back? Or does it work for BOTH front and back? Sorry if I'm asking something that seems basic.

Derwin

[MrChet]

I don't get it. The foot brake on the Spyder is for the back or front? You installed a HAND brake for the FRONT? So does this mean that when you press on the foot break, it is ONLY for the back? Or does it work for BOTH front and back? Sorry if I'm asking something that seems basic.

No, there is only the one brake on the bike and it does all the brakes. Adding a hand brake just gives you the option of using it to stop instead of the foot brake.
When I ask the reps at the demo ride why only a foot brake they said the ABS pulses and freaks people out when they felt it in their hand so they let go. That's why they took it off. I think it's a good idea to have and makes it easier to ride. Then all I need is to make myself some leg rests on the sides and get the SE5 and I'd never have to put my feet down!

[Twodog185]

I like the cable idea over the hydraulic, but I don't like kinking or pushing the cable if the foot pedal is compressed. How about this variation of the plate for the hand brake? The hand brake lever can be spring loaded via the cable, or at the lever itself.



http://i288.photobucket.com/albums/ll171/twodog35120/brakebracket.jpg

[larryd]

twodog 185, Hand brake cable..I too like the cable idea but I have a similar idea that requires only one plate at the brake pedal end..The plate would look very similar to yours with a slot milled in the plate that is closed on both ends. You would need a cable that has a threaded stud on the lower end and you would need a clevis attached to the cable and the clevis pin would ride in the milled slot..No cable kinking or binding..when you push on the foot brake the clevis pin would follow the slot in the welded on bracket..What do you think ??

[Twodog185]

Larryd,

It sounds good. Instead of the open end, you'd have a sliding clevis in a closed slot. I can't even find a cable with a beaded end, much less a threaded end. Still looking though. I don't have a garage full of spare parts. I tried the local rocket shop, the parts guy was a numbers guy, not an idea guy. I'll do this though. I hope BRP comes out with a hand brake add as the SE5 comes out. With the automatic, you wouldn't even need a foot brake because the foot shifter would disappear. Nothing but highway pegs and scenery.

[ataDude]

There is another, more pressing, reason for this mod as I see it. If one continues to ride two-wheelers (as I will), the ability to continue to use a "front brake" lever allows you to maintain the habits required for the safe riding of both types of bikes/trikes/roadsters.




I don't get it. The foot brake on the Spyder is for the back or front? You installed a HAND brake for the FRONT? So does this mean that when you press on the foot break, it is ONLY for the back? Or does it work for BOTH front and back? Sorry if I'm asking something that seems basic.

Derwin

[larryd]

Twodog 185, My two older Honda Atv's both have rear brake cables with threaded ends on the lower end and beaded ends for the brake handle end....they go from the left handlebar brake handle to the rear axle..they are 88 trx 300 and 98 trx 450..I need to get one and measure the overall length...Lamonster said they need to be about 77" or 78"..

I just ordered a Honda cable #43460-HNO-A-00..TRX 450 rear hand brake cable, beaded top end threaded lower end, 80" oal $16.79 + PA tax..

I will find or make a clevis.

Lemonster used a Suzuki M109 clutch cable with some modifications..beaded on both ends..

I won't put my highway foot pegs on till I get this hand brake deal installed.

larryd

[Lamonster]

There is another, more pressing, reason for this mod as I see it. If one continues to ride two-wheelers (as I will), the ability to continue to use a "front brake" lever allows you to maintain the habits required for the safe riding of both types of bikes/trikes/roadsters.


:agree: That's the main reason I did this mod. :bigthumbsup:

[Twodog185]

Larryd,

Thanks for the info on the cable. The spring attachment to a clevis is a far better idea. I spent 35 years grabbing a front brake...I'd feel better knowing it's available.

thanks

[trikester]

I agree with the need to do this mod if you ride other bikes. When I ride my Yamaha trike conversions (see my photo) I find myself stopping with the foot pedal rear brake only, because I have gotten accustomed to riding the Spyder. This especially applies to me because I'm riding another front wheel trike (tadpole type) but the foot is only the rear and the hand brake is only the front, and I should be using both. :yikes:

I think it is time for me to start taking a serious look at doing one of the hand brake mods. :read:

[scottmanesis]

:congrats: I too am awaiting on the bolt on version for the non welder but somewhat mechanically inclined. Keep us posted. This is an oversight by BRP in my opinion as many customers may actually ride both a Spyder AND a Motorcycle and the front brake first skill is one that could be deadly if lost and switching back to a two wheeler. I almost ran out into a busy street on my demo as being an avid motorcyclist my first instinct was to "OH, ****!....no front brake lever!"
Even though I already knew it was not there I went for it anyhowe!

[Putt-Putt]

A hand brake is definitely needed. Whether it operates just the front brakes or both front & rear. Although I prefer one that operates both front & rear. There are many reasons for this.

[GA-SPYDER]

Every time I ride my Spyder, I'm glad I did the hand brake mod. I very seldom use the foot brake now. MM 3" risers are next.

[Putt-Putt]

A hand brake is definitely needed. Whether it operates just the front brakes or both front & rear. Although I prefer one that operates both front & rear. There are many reasons for this.


Now who is making one? Both front and rear operation preferred.

[rmcalpin98]

Hey GA SPYDER. I'm in Augusta too. Saw you driving off from the shop one day. Who did your hand brake? I want to put one on mine when it gets in.

[Khristaphoe]

Any issues with the hand brake cable getting stuck?
So far are there any safety issues?


Khris

[spydeebike]

I can't do this mod on my own, but it is very much needed, I got in to a fender bender and could of been avoided if i had the usual hand brake. Anyone know where I can get it done.

[Motza]

Nice job. :bigthumbsup: I didn't think about running hard line to the slave but that will work great if you then run a flex to the master. :bigthumbsup:
What the hell you guys talking about? Running to the slave, then run to the master, does'nt sound good, to us Yankees up north! Where's the "HAND BRAKE KIT" for us mechanically handicap.

[GA-SPYDER]

Sorry about being so slow on a reply.
Did it myself. Got a buzz box in the garage. Followed lamonster's post on the how-to. Aredy had the M109 stock clutch cable. purchased a dirt bike clutch lever assembly and it works great!

[Putt-Putt]

I really would like a hydraulic front brake KIT; that works all three brakes off existing system. No loss of VSS system that way.

[rmcalpin98]

So what are the exact parts a person would need to have this MOD done? For the ones that have already dont this MOD which parts would you recommend for the ones that are'nt techincal wizards YET?

[aubierules]

did the hand brake according to lamonsters specs and after 750 miles, still going strong...i never use the footbrake now:thumbup:

[Oldfart]

I have spend many hours designing a kit, based on the original idea of Lamonster, that could be made without the need to weld brackets onto the footbrake pedal.

My design uses a braket that pivots from a stud and wraps round the underside of the brake pedal and into a position where cable can be attached. As there is only a 10mm gap around the foot pedal boss I had to make the bracket go around both sides of support casting which holds the micro switches for the brake light and over-travel detection.

When the brake pedal is depressed the lever justs hangs there and the cable is kept under tension.

Its easier to look at the photos to get an idea how it works. It took me a day to make and about 2 hours to fit and it works a treat......

Handbrake assy 1
http://i427.photobucket.com/albums/pp360/oldfartphotoes/PC060243.jpg?t=1228690088

http://i427.photobucket.com/albums/pp360/oldfartphotoes/PC060242.jpg?t=1228690026
http://i427.photobucket.com/albums/pp360/oldfartphotoes/PC060241.jpg?t=1228690142
http://i427.photobucket.com/albums/pp360/oldfartphotoes/PC060244.jpg?t=1228690209
http://i427.photobucket.com/albums/pp360/oldfartphotoes/PC060245.jpg?t=1228690236
http://i427.photobucket.com/albums/pp360/oldfartphotoes/PC060246.jpg?t=1228690268

What do you think of it.....

[tatt2r]

you are one impressive old fart....

[ataDude]

Very nice. That's next on my list once I get through fiddling with exhausts.

Thanks for the great pics!

.


I have spend many hours designing a kit, based on the original idea of Lamonster, that could be made without the need to weld brackets onto the footbrake pedal.

My design uses a braket that pivots from a stud and wraps round the underside of the brake pedal and into a position where cable can be attached. As there is only a 10mm gap around the foot pedal boss I had to make the bracket go around both sides of support casting which holds the micro switches for the brake light and over-travel detection.

When the brake pedal is depressed the lever justs hangs there and the cable is kept under tension.

Its easier to look at the photos to get an idea how it works. It took me a day to make and about 2 hours to fit and it works a treat......

Handbrake assy 1

What do you think of it.....

[mike3069]

Wow! Thats a real clean design. Very nice.

[Lamonster]

I hope I have those skills when I'm a old fart.:thumbup::doorag:

So how do you like it so far? :popcorn:

[NancysToy]

I hope I have those skills when I'm a old fart.:thumbup::doorag:
It's not the age, it's the mileage!
-Scotty

[jarhd3]

I've followed all the threads about the handbrake situation and how everyone feels the need to add one.I'll add just MY OPINION!The research BRP has done one the brake mechanism on the spyder more than meets the criteria for a safe operating system on a vehicle of this configuration.It seems to me that some riders cant adapt or break old habits and want the front brake lever as a source of "comfort".I do not think it is an issue of safety concerns that compels some of the riders to look into adding this acccessory to the spyder rather it is that thinkig that "I've always had one before and I still want one now."I checked with a local engineer for and opinion on this issue and we both through contact w/ the people at BRP and brake industry people that the system is designed as it is for the purpose of this motorcycle and the systems it interacts with that was done through extensive research.The VSS and it integrated systems work in conjuction w/ its integral back ups to make a safe and reliable braking system.Bosch worked on this type of system for racecars and aircraft.In the early 70s,I built choppers w/o front brakes and relied on the rear brake only and converted disc brakesystems to early harleys w/rigid frames and NEVER had a problem in a panic stop.With chaning laws I had to add front brakes to successive bikes I built-hated it.I've tested over and over the system on the spyder and found it-IN MY OPINION,to be very adequate for the purpose of this motorcycle.Too often I've seen someone use too much front brake w/near fatal results.How about better rider education.Still seeing motorcyclists hitting the front brakes pretty hard in a panic and flying over the handlebars or worse fliping the bike over.I'm leaving my spyders brake system the way it is designed to work in its present state,works fine,Ol saying"ain't broke,don't fix it!"Some times people don't like to have to make a little change to make a big difference.THIS IS JUST MY OPINION! SPYDER FOREVER!:chat:

[Lamonster]

Too often I've seen someone use too much front brake w/near fatal results.How about better rider education.Still seeing motorcyclists hitting the front brakes pretty hard in a panic and flying over the handlebars or worse fliping the bike over.I'm leaving my spyders brake system the way it is designed to work in its present state,works fine,Ol saying"ain't broke,don't fix it!"Some times people don't like to have to make a little change to make a big difference.THIS IS JUST MY OPINION! SPYDER FOREVER!:chat:

In your OPINION how much front brake should a person use on a motorcycle and still be safe?
This is a multiple choice question.

none at all
10%
20%
30%?
40%?
50%?
60%?
70%?
70-80%?

I agree about having more rider education. What rider education have you had, besides building choppers with a rear brake only?

You do know that we're not adding a front brake right? We're adding a hand brake that operates the rear foot pedal so there's no worry about flipping over the handlebars of a Spyder.

You may not be aware that most of the calls and emails I get about adding a HAND BRAKE is from riders with limited or no use of their legs or feet. What would you suggest they do? Quit riding? This is one of the guys who called me about a HAND BRAKE. http://www.spyderlovers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7960 :doorag:

[jarhd3]

Have taught rider ed on every duty station i was on in the Corps30+yrs.Have logged officially over 400,oomi.on motorcycles only.Remember back in the 70s front brake only was the style.As a veteran, I've built cycles for fellow vets w/modified brake and control systems for those w/amputations,limb loss and other disabilities.I'm currently doing one now so a fellow Marine can ride home fm Walter Reed when discharged fm the hospital/rehab center.The points are moot.Given a Perfectly good system that works, I see no reason to do much else.As for how much hand brake to use?It would depend on the riders own choice and experience and comfortablilty.I've riden for years w riders who use little or no front brake.UNSAFE!?Maybe to some but look at allthe insane stuff bikers are doing now and calling it entertainment.To each his own,free country(you're welcome).I've pitched the spyder to many veterans as a way to get back on the road again.its a GREAT MACHINE!!Maybe theres too much happening w the spyders that after awhile the'll be just like all the other bikes on the road.Can't happen.too good.NUFF SAID!!!

[deanarm]

It never ceases to amaze me at the number of people who read these forums and always no matter how it is said seem to miss the point.
Just like in this one all any one is trying to do is keep up good habits for riding thier two wheeler. I personally dont have much experience on a two wheeler, just the last 4 years, and when learning I used both front and rear at the same time but the rear not as much as the front. The reason for using the rear was for that time I had to make a panic stop and I did not want my feable brain to forget that I had another brake.
Having said all this I personally appreciate all the mods people are doing to the sypder and will make the brake modification when I get the time. The modification will like the others in no way interfer with the foot brake it will just give me another way to stop, for example when I am on the highway and have my feet proped up and need to get some braking before I can get my old legs back on the pedal.

[Lamonster]

Have taught rider ed on every duty station i was on in the Corps30+yrs.Have logged officially over 400,oomi.on motorcycles only.Remember back in the 70s front brake only was the style.As a veteran, I've built cycles for fellow vets w/modified brake and control systems for those w/amputations,limb loss and other disabilities.I'm currently doing one now so a fellow Marine can ride home fm Walter Reed when discharged fm the hospital/rehab center.The points are moot.Given a Perfectly good system that works, I see no reason to do much else.As for how much hand brake to use?It would depend on the riders own choice and experience and comfortablilty.I've riden for years w riders who use little or no front brake.UNSAFE!?Maybe to some but look at allthe insane stuff bikers are doing now and calling it entertainment.To each his own,free country(you're welcome).I've pitched the spyder to many veterans as a way to get back on the road again.its a GREAT MACHINE!!Maybe theres too much happening w the spyders that after awhile the'll be just like all the other bikes on the road.Can't happen.too good.NUFF SAID!!!

I think it's great what you're doing for your buds. I have two son's in the Marines now and one going in next year.

I am surprised at your answer about how much brake is safe. The MSF teach that 70-80% of your stopping power is your front brakes. I would think that the training you had would have said the same. :dontknow:

Bottom line is what I did does not hinder the stock braking system, it only makes it better. The foot brake still works as it always did, nothing has changed about that. I would think that a guy like you who's been building choppers and modding bikes for his buds would appreciate that.

[NancysToy]

Well, this has become a lively discussion! First, let me compliment Oldfart on the quality and professionalism of his work. I have concerns about the small size and the grade of the bolt, but it is the best conversion I have seen, bar none. No offense Lamonster.

I agree with others who have pointed out that this is not a front brake, but an additional mechanism to apply all the brakes. As such, it does not enter into any of the controversies about how much front brake to use. With either pedal or hand lever, you will apply all the Spyder brakes...plain and simple.

I wholeheartedly agree that a rider that switches from machine to machine has an advantage with such a system on his or her Spyder. Although I find myself more likely to "grab air" while on the Spyder, than to fail to use the front brake while riding my bikes, I do feel uncomfortable realizing I just had to think about what is going on. "Fail to adapt", not really...whatever you do to brake, especially in a panic situation, must be instinctive and second nature. If you have to take time to think about it, you may wind up dead, and you certainly will stop farther down the road.

Reasons for such an adapter vary. Keeping in practice when you switch rides is certainly a good one. I also loudly applaud the fact that such a conversion can open the door for people with mild to severe disabilities. Why shouldn't they be able to ride? One thing nobody has mentioned is the ability to use the brake lever to stop the machine when not riding it. Pushing out of the garage or into a trailer, for instance.

My only concern is that some able-bodied people, who also ride conventional motorcycles, will get in the bad habit of using only the hand brake lever. This is a recipe for disaster! Yes, 70% or more of your braking power on a motorcycle comes from the front brake. Unfortunately, most of your braking instability in anything other than straight-line braking on a clean, dry surface, also comes from the front brake. Ask any dirt rider about that one! Wet pavement, leaves, curves, oil, even slick manhole covers offer numerous opportunities to crash if too much front brake is applied. Learn to apply it excessively, indiscriminately, or exclusively, and you will eventually experience road rash first hand. Too much emphasis has often been placed on use of the front brake, without explaining that for optimum stabilty and stopping power, a rider must use both together. Fortunately, the Spyder takes care of that issue for us.

I cannot condone, and certainly wouldn't recommend no front brake on any machine, nor would I be as rash as to actually recommend it and cry about laws against it. Not to have and use one on the street is folly. Yes, I have owned drag bikes with no front brake. Was it comforting going 150 mph and trying to stop at the long end...NO! Yes, I mostly ride old bikes with drum brakes, and I have to try to ride and brake way ahead of myself. Comforting, not always...panic stop, I hope not. Write me from your hospital room and tell me how that worked out for you if the occasion arises. Less braking power is less braking power...period! Stopping distances will be increased. You can't fight physics.

Sorry for the long-winded tyrade. I just couldn't let this one slide. I remain among those who hope that BRP will one day double up with a secondary brake lever, and I may even rig one myself one day...although not likely as elegantly as Oldfart has done.
-Scotty

[Putt-Putt]

deanarm--Lamonster--NancysToy

I totally agree with you! :agree:

I do believe that there are MANY times when a hand brake is advantageous. What Lamonster has done is basically a linked braking system with hand or foot brake operation. Same principle as BMW & goldwing have. I also believe that with the human body the hand has a faster reaction time than the foot. Such as when you have your feet on hwy. pegs. Anyone with a lot of riding time certainly can recall when a hand brake came in handy or saved the day.

[Rando]

got brake?

[Bimjo]

Personally I think BRP took the hand brake lever off (prototypes had one) because the target audience was car owners, not motorcyclists. Complaints of the hand brake lever oscillating was disturbing to those folks, while a foot pedal doing the same was familiar because of ABS brakes in cars/trucks.

It's a big change going from a gas pedal to a twist throttle and some people have trouble making the leap. Adding a hand brake into the situation on top of a hand operated clutch just creates an overload condition that could lead to failure.

If you're BRP and you can reduce part of the potential overload for your target audience then it's a no brainer. Just like those of us who can handle the load putting a hand brake lever back on the bike think that's an no brainer too. :thumbup:

[zzneonzz]

Personally I think BRP took the hand brake lever off (prototypes had one) because the target audience was car owners, not motorcyclists. Complaints of the hand brake lever oscillating was disturbing to those folks, while a foot pedal doing the same was familiar because of ABS brakes in cars/trucks.

It's a big change going from a gas pedal to a twist throttle and some people have trouble making the leap. Adding a hand brake into the situation on top of a hand operated clutch just creates an overload condition that could lead to failure.

If you're BRP and you can reduce part of the potential overload for your target audience then it's a no brainer. Just like those of us who can handle the load putting a hand brake lever back on the bike think that's an no brainer too. :thumbup:


:agree: to that reasoning, however i also think that they could/should make an accessory that will allow a hand brake to be added even if it does exactly like this mod does and just uses the foot brake. It will help those of us with disabilities as well as those who still have a 2 wheel with a hand brake to not get used to using only the foot brake.

[jarhd3]

Inthe recent thread concerning the issue of the handbrake,I misrepresented myself on the thread,infact I stated an outright LIE!I stated that I accumulated 400'000 mi.,The fact is a total LIE!I made the statement out of total IDIOTCY AND HUBRIS!No legalese here I made a falsehood.I want to clear this up and apologize to all on the thread and ESPECIALLY TO LAMONT.I came off as a blowhard and idiot.In this medium I am a bit uncomfortable in expressing my views.I do not mean to make force of my opinion but it comes off that way.Lamont accept my apologies and I wish to say that it was not an attack on the proceedure just an opinion.My apologies to all on the site.

[trikester]

I haven't looked in on this forum in awhile but this time I wanted to see what new posts there might be about adding a hand brake to the Spyder.

It was interesting to see the posts about the use of front brakes on two wheel bikes. This was because I just finished converting my 1947 Matchless front brake from an almost ineffective drum to a hydraulic disk system. I love riding the '47 Matchless but it seemed like it took a city block to stop. The rear brakes on these old bikes aren't very good either so using both didn't help much.

I went to a large motorcycle dealer and picked out a hub that would fit my forks. It was from an Yamaha TTR230 and used the same disk as the TW200 which I just happened to have a disk, caliper, and master cylinder in my parts box, from my second TWTrike conversion. The beauty of this hub and disk from a small displacement bike was that it was not an oversize brake for the size and weight of the Matchless so modulation during a quick stop is easy without the brake "grabbing".

The second ride on my antique bike with the new disk brake I had to make a fast stop. What a difference! I sure was glad I made that change. :yes:

I realize this is off to the side of the main topic but I definitely want the hand brake on my Spyder because I ride many different motorcycles that have one thing in common - a brake lever on the right handlebar. It's quicker and easier to feel how much force you are applying.

BTW - If you are interested in seeing the Matchless conversion go to www.vintagebikeOC.com and page through the December photo page until you come to the photos of the Matchless. The vintage bike meet (once a month) organizer posted before and after shots.

Frank

[intothenew]

I came here for research, Martha wants a new ride. I don't think it is too hard to figure out what that could be.

I came with the prejudice of a "hand" brake as a must. After reading this thread, and listening to Martha, that just may not be the case. Terrific thread!

Lots of ingenuity, and lots of pragmatic opinions. Garage space just moved to the top of the list. I have learned to suppress my two wheel instincts and listen to the end user. I cannot commend the Lamonster enough, if it was for me, there would have to be a small chicken bar at the throttle.

This is going to be fun.

[NancysToy]

I came here for research, Martha wants a new ride. I don't think it is too hard to figure out what that could be.

I came with the prejudice of a "hand" brake as a must. After reading this thread, and listening to Martha, that just may not be the case. Terrific thread!

Lots of ingenuity, and lots of pragmatic opinions. Garage space just moved to the top of the list. I have learned to suppress my two wheel instincts and listen to the end user. I cannot commend the Lamonster enough, if it was for me, there would have to be a small chicken bar at the throttle.

This is going to be fun.
Welcome! When my wife was looking for a ride, she considered bikes and scooters. Never found anything that suited her. Then she saw the Spyder. The lack of a hand brake, and the presence of a clutch lever worried her at first, the brake even more so after her MSF course. In a few short parking lot sessions on the Spyder, a few rides around the neighborhood, and then ventures onto the highway, that was all quickly forgotten. It is as natural to her as riding a bicycle. I don't worry with her riding with me, either, like I am sure I would have on two wheels. She sticks right wityh me on my BMW, with a grin ion her face. I might add that I find the Spyder just as nice to ride, and adapt to the differences immediately when I switch back and forth. I'm sure you won't regret buying a Spyder!
-Scotty http://forum.thestompbox.net/images/smilies/1a_snow.gif

[trikester]

I'm very happy with my adaptation of the NEXUS hydraulic hand brake system now.

One thing I hadn't mentioned before was that I got so used to the "foot brake only" on my Spyder that I found myself beginning to not use the hand brake on my two TWTrike Yamaha dual-sport conversions. That bothered me, because like most motorcycles, my trikes foot brake only brakes the rear wheel. I felt I was beginning to form a bad habit there, especially in an emergency stop. :yikes: Now that I can stop the Spyder with a hand brake, that newly aquired bad habit should fade away.

This is an unusual situation that applies to me, because all three of my trikes have the two wheels in front, so I had a tendency to feel like I was riding the Spyder even when I was on the TWTrikes. I could ride any of my other two wheel motorcycles and not fall into that foot brake only habit, it only began to happen when riding one of my other dual front wheel trikes. :shocked:

[vt228]

nead decals for handle bars the ones on bike are gone came off while at dealers didnt no till today. plus nead info on what to air brush on my bike can someone give me info I do nead new decals vt228 trailer has web and spyder on it

[rosej]

I have spend many hours designing a kit, based on the original idea of Lamonster, that could be made without the need to weld brackets onto the footbrake pedal.

My design uses a braket that pivots from a stud and wraps round the underside of the brake pedal and into a position where cable can be attached. As there is only a 10mm gap around the foot pedal boss I had to make the bracket go around both sides of support casting which holds the micro switches for the brake light and over-travel detection.

When the brake pedal is depressed the lever justs hangs there and the cable is kept under tension.

Its easier to look at the photos to get an idea how it works. It took me a day to make and about 2 hours to fit and it works a treat......

Handbrake assy 1
http://i427.photobucket.com/albums/pp360/oldfartphotoes/PC060243.jpg?t=1228690088

http://i427.photobucket.com/albums/pp360/oldfartphotoes/PC060242.jpg?t=1228690026
http://i427.photobucket.com/albums/pp360/oldfartphotoes/PC060241.jpg?t=1228690142
http://i427.photobucket.com/albums/pp360/oldfartphotoes/PC060244.jpg?t=1228690209
http://i427.photobucket.com/albums/pp360/oldfartphotoes/PC060245.jpg?t=1228690236
http://i427.photobucket.com/albums/pp360/oldfartphotoes/PC060246.jpg?t=1228690268

What do you think of it.....

G'day Old Fart,

John from Australia here,

Congradulations on an impressive modification.

I am very interested in your modification for a front brake lever.
The bracket looks relatively easy to fabricate, just fiddly..
Just a couple of questions, if you don't mind.

What lever and cable etc did you use?
And what material did you use for your bracket?

I am looking at doing this because I intend to fit a set of highway pegs and like the security of being able to get to the brake quickly in an emergency if my feet are on the h'way pegs.

I have installed a number of extras to my Spyder including Corbin seats, Givi Panniers and additional rear lighting in the panniers as well as MM rear light.
Also modified the tail to give it a cleaner look as per attached photo. We here in Oz have to have a reversing light, so needed to make it look good.

I would be grateful for your assistance.

regards,

John
:2thumbs:

[Oldfart]

G'day Old Fart,

John from Australia here,

Congradulations on an impressive modification.

I am very interested in your modification for a front brake lever.
The bracket looks relatively easy to fabricate, just fiddly..
Just a couple of questions, if you don't mind.

What lever and cable etc did you use?
And what material did you use for your bracket?

I am looking at doing this because I intend to fit a set of highway pegs and like the security of being able to get to the brake quickly in an emergency if my feet are on the h'way pegs.

I have installed a number of extras to my Spyder including Corbin seats, Givi Panniers and additional rear lighting in the panniers as well as MM rear light.
Also modified the tail to give it a cleaner look as per attached photo. We here in Oz have to have a reversing light, so needed to make it look good.

I would be grateful for your assistance.

regards,

John
:2thumbs:

Hi John,

The cable I used was a Honda cable #43460-HNO-A-00 rear brake cable from a TRX 450, it is 80" long.

The lever is a universal one for a 7/8" bar, which I found on ebay.

The plate is 3/8" aluminium, it took a while to get the profile right to go round the brackets, there are also 2 spacers required at the pivot point so that the bracket sits in the centre of the foot brake lever.

I have changed the design slightly so that the cable can be placed in one of 4 positions on the 3/8" plate this enables the pull on the handle bar lever to be adjusted giving a hard or soft pull (short or long lever travel).

I understand that NM is working on a kit so maybe an off the shelf version is not far away.

Mike