I had a great ride last fall on my '56 KHK. I led our antique motorcycle club (Vintage Iron Riders) on a 2 day, 300+ ride into Western Illinois where we visited motorcycle collections, enjoyed great food, slept under the stars, and rode on some great motorcycle/sports car roads. The bike ran great, but its stopping power was less than what I would like. I recently acquired a '64-'71 full width front drum brake.
My question is: Has anyone had problems with the later front drum brake?
Both Buchanan and the Vintage Brake guy expressed concerns that these brakes were prone to crack and break. They also say that a properly tuned older brake will have essentially the same stopping power of the newer brake. Members of my club who have used this brake tell me they have had no trouble with their brakes.
I am inclined to use the newer brake with a new aluminum rim. The newer brake will be tuned to provide its best performance. I figure it will give better braking with less fade. With the new, lighter rim I should have less unsprung weight up front, which will give a better ride with better handling.
I definitely will not discard my original front wheel and brake that is now on the K model.
So, what is the wisdom out there? Is this a good plan?
My question is: Has anyone had problems with the later front drum brake?
Both Buchanan and the Vintage Brake guy expressed concerns that these brakes were prone to crack and break. They also say that a properly tuned older brake will have essentially the same stopping power of the newer brake. Members of my club who have used this brake tell me they have had no trouble with their brakes.
I am inclined to use the newer brake with a new aluminum rim. The newer brake will be tuned to provide its best performance. I figure it will give better braking with less fade. With the new, lighter rim I should have less unsprung weight up front, which will give a better ride with better handling.
I definitely will not discard my original front wheel and brake that is now on the K model.
So, what is the wisdom out there? Is this a good plan?
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