WLA Front Brake Question

[emyoung35]

Hello all,

I finally got my WLA running well. My back brakes well, but my front brake is relatively nonexistent. Yes I realize the are mechanical and not disc. Is this typical of WLAs? Thanks in advance,

Erik
WLA and vintage bike newbie

[Rubone]

Generally 45/WL brakes work relatively well. They are nearly the size of Big Twin brakes with a much lighter payload. My personal 45 brakes work just fine, so there is an issue with yours. Shoes not centered, not matched to the drum,glazed, etc. A close inspection is in order. Have you followed the adjustment procedure in the Service Manual?

[emyoung35]

Rubone,

Greatly appreciate your reply. I was adjusting the cable and it broke. I have ordered another one. I believe it was old and didn't have enough travel to engage the brake. When I get the new one I will hope to adjust it accordingly. When I roll the bike and pull the lever I am getting resistance. Thanks again.

Erik

[Architect]

I agree they should work, but for me they are more for rolling the bike around and being able to stop it. Think pulling up to a red light and just rolling the last 10', or rolling her around the garage. At speed and you need to stop in a a hurry, it will be all about the rear brake. My experience is when pushed real hard, they give up the ghost pretty quick. But well adjusted, better then no front brake. Good luck.

[kitabel]

The front brake always does most of the work.

[DanM]

I sent my 45 front brake drum, backing plate and shoes to Vintage Brake. They trued the drum, glued the Ferodo linings to shoes then arced the linings to match the drum. It was very effective work. Www.vintagebrake.com

Dan

[Coolbreeze]

Good suggestion. I will call Mike Morse at Vintage Brake tomorrow to see what he can do with the front brake on my '66 Honda 150 Touring Benly. This is one of the reasons I am a AMCA member.