Rear Brake

[stryder]

I've always maintained when peeps complain about their rear brake that if you use it regularly, it will work well enough. Last night, while out for a ride and during the time I rode in stop and go traffic in town, I used it exclusively which I often do. It worked so well I felt compelled to remark about it today. No issues with stopping power or modulation. That being said, yes, it's not the most powerful, but otoh, I used a bit of force on the pedal at times and it never locked up/slid the rear. I still have the OME pads on the rear, and bleed the system yearly.

[Gearbox]

It can be pretty pathetic as it arrives from the factory but a little careful adjustment and regular maintenance helps immensely.
Mine was useless initially but after a little work now operates fine and sufficient fotr its purpose.

[ptourin]

You guys are jaded - you should ride a Norton and then get on your ST - the stock front disc on a late Commando feels like you're pushing a block of wood against the rotor <g>...

[DuckMan]

The rears on all three of my bikes work about the same, PERFECTLY !

They give me exactly what I want and need when I ask for it. I couldn't imagine them being any better.

None of them can lock the rear tire when used by themselves. 45mph, pull in the clutch and mash as hard as I can. No lockup. I can get more braking power by downshifting than using them.

For fine control while riding I wouldn't want it any other way.

[MarkST]

Originally Posted by DuckMan

For fine control while riding I wouldn't want it any other way.

Agreed.
I love my ST rear brakes.

[Puffin64]

only brake to use on low speed turns or gravel, and for rolling up to a give way junction and virtually stopping without putting a foot down.

[MarkST]

Wet autumnal leaves also spring to mind Tim, as does early unexpected frost.

[il_randy]

Completely agree with this thread. Had to make adjustments to the pull of the lever but once I did that it works great and I use it all the time.

[DuckMan]

Just for grins, on the way home I did an experiment (played around).

There's a road that goes by a big pipe lay down yard. It's smooth polished asphalt and always covered with a very visible layer of white dust. More slippery than rain on good pavement.

50 mph, pull the clutch in and nail the rear brake. Pressing way harder than I would normally, I was just able to engage the ABS. In fact, first time I've ever done that on the rear. I was impressed how well ot worked and could just feel the pulsing through the pedal.

[kaysystems]

Dare I ask . . . .what's the favourite brake pad?
I need to change mine. I'm at 30,000 miles and assume that I'm not using the original pads (I've done 7,000 miles since I bought it)

thanks

David