|
|
|
The rearset footrest hanger and the one for the brake were fabricated from 10mm dural plate and fastened with 8mm stainless steel cap head bolts. The footrests were machined from 12mm alloy, knurled and spigoted into the hanger with 8mm stainless bolts. The spigots provide additional rigidity over and above what would be the case if the footrests were merely bolted through. The hangers were polished using proprietary polishing compound (blue) and felt mops. This really is the only way to get any sort of finish on unpolished alloy. Ordinary metal polish such as Solvol is OK for final buffing but the hard work needs to be done mechanically if anything like a decent finish is to be achieved.
BRAKE CONTROLS The rod operated rear brake was considered too inefficient for race use. The main problem with it was the number of bends required to connect the fabricated brake pedal to the brake operating arm as these lay in completely different planes. The solution was to make up a cable using SILVER SOLDER to attach the nipples, and route the cables through spigoted cable stops with adjusters. This method has produced an extremely efficient brake and is also pleasing to the eye (I think). A word of caution. Always use SILVER SOLDER when making up cables. It really is the only safe way to join dissimilar metals. It is slightly more expensive than ordinary solder, and needs a propane torch and special flux but the joint it makes is super-strong, more akin to brazing than soldering. If you think this is overkill, just think about the consequences of a failed solder joint when you are braking hard for the hairpin at Donington, Mallory or Thruxton..... and go buy some silver solder. If you need some guidance on the use of Silver Solder, look here. The site is designed for model engineers but is a mine of useful information for those restoring motorcycles.
The front brake is conventionally cable operated, although I did replace the standard cable with a new "Universal" one which looks much more heavy duty than the original. The lever, was a stock off the shelf "Bike-It" part, as was the clutch lever. I used many components from that company and cannot rate their value and quality high enough. In a word, excellent. They do not supply to the public but any number of dealers stock their wares and these were pleased to help on each occasion I had a question to ask. |
