SOHC.co.uk Forums > CB500/550

Front brake

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matthewmosse:
They do get better if a bit warm, especially if raining. I have managed to lock the front wheel using a single front disk and standard master cylinder with the addition of a braided stainless hose. Add that the bike is fitted with a sidecar so plenty of weight on that front end.

florence:
I would agree about the braided hose, it makes a big difference.  I don't think this problem is about the age of the bike, it is about design, I have ridden plenty of older bikes which stop better. 

However, in the bikes defence, I think it has a lot to do with feel as well.  For me, it was worth conducting a test just to see what the stopping distance was.  On a very quiet road near my house there is a straight bit which is about a mile long.  About half way along I placed a stick in the verge, turned round, went back up the road before setting off again.  I accelerated up to 60mph and rode to the stick marker, whereupon, making sure no one around, I slammed on the brakes as hard as I could and came to a stop.  I have to say the result was much better than I had thought possible.  Although it feels like the brakes aren't doing much the stopping distance is quiet respectable.

As with all equipment on the bike, make sure it is well maintained.  Make sure the caliper is in good order, strip and clean, replace seals, bleed correctly, fit new pads (the ones from Dave Silver are the best I've had), adjust correctly, use a braided hose etc...etc...

matthewmosse:
I would think the brakes compare as about the same as my ntv 650 to be honest, and the ntv is probably a fair bit faster.

wolfheze:
Might look at gathering the bits and pieces for a twin disc set up. Previous owner obviously thought  the same about the brake perfomance  as the ******* advertised some parts for a twin disc conversion  on here a week after I had bought it rather than throw them in with the bike. Think they turned out to be wrong anyway!

totty:
It might be worth checking a few basics before modifying.

Is the pivot seized
Do the hoses bulge
Are the pads seized in the caliper
Are the pads contaminated
Are the pads bedded in

I've had the pivot seize twice and it makes a noticeable difference, it's worth cleaning it every service.

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