[Fwd: RT Linked Brakes]

["Tom Brown" <tbrown@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Bob:

The way these brake work is that they use both brakes whether you use the
rear pedal or the front lever.  The rear pedal is very sensitive.  I
adjusted my linkage (10mm wrench) so that I have to push the pedal further
to get brake engagement and it's really helped with the sensitivity issue
for me.   The new ABS system works better than the old one and it's more
effective at letting you steer etc.   When I'm going downhill, I just use a
low gear for rear wheel braking.   First gear at 4 to 6000 RPM is not
unheard of for me.  The bike makes a racket, but you can do this all day
without side effects.   If you're going very slow, to the point that 1st
gear isn't slow enough, well, rear braking is only marginally effective
anyway.  I just feather the brakes to keep my pace steady and make sure the
way is clear so I won't have to stop mid-way down, avoid target fixation and
go for it.  If I keep my head up and my attention on where I want to go
rather than where I don't, I can usually steer out of any sliding trouble.

These brakes take a bit of technique adjustment, as does the 6-speed, but
once you've become used to them, you can do virtually anything that a
standard brake system can do...and you've got stopping power to burn with
never a need for more than two fingers on the brake lever.   Also, I agree
that the brakes seemed pretty grabby for the first few thousand miles, but
they get better with miles, just have a little faith.

The only other tip I have for a new RT buyer is to run the p-ss out of it
after the initial break in oil has been changed at 600 miles.   Step it up
gradually, but don't baby it for the full 6,000 miles.  Make sure bike is up
to full temp before giving it the spurs, but do give it the spurs.  Lots of
different engine speeds and loads are needed for proper break-in of the
cylinder walls, and seating of the rings.   If you want to change oil at 3K,
go ahead.  No synthetic until 12 to 20K.

- -TB

>I would like to hear any firsthand stories from anyone with an RT that
has the linked brakes who has ridden it on bad surfaces, like muddy
downhill dirt roads or any situation where one would ordinarily like to
apply ONLY the rear brake. I like the RT, but end up on crappy roads a
few times a year (not enough to want a GS) and the linked brakes concern me.

Bob

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