Dumb observation of the day

I am looking for a 1971 Commando to buy, I was offered a nice, running, titled 1971 CDO by a buddy but it has a front disc brake. I thought all 1971's were front drum's?

Vince

What's the s/n?

I don't know, I did not get detailed pictures. Would late-production '71's have a front disc?

Vince

All '71's were sold with drum brakes. Disc brake was 1st sold on '72 Combats. '71 owners and earlier insist on drums as look better to them as factory issued. They work harder to slow though.

I thought that his bike had been updated but I was not sure so I didn't say anything.

I know that disc brakes work better but honestly my days of riding "in anger" are WAY, WAY behind me (and I love the look of the drum).

Vince

You can always replace it, but it'll be $$$$. Actually if the drum is set up right it's about as good as the disk, it just won't hold up to racing.



Dave
69S

The TLS drum brakes are going for 250 to 300 bucks on Ebay. More if they are laced to a wheel.

Russ

They listed the disc as a option , before std fittment . Probly supplied 10 sets to cover the whole of the U.S.A.

Above 80 mph a disc proves its worth , hardly a reason to put you off . Try a few wheelies and see if the front wheel falls of , when you put the brake on , to see if its any good , Theory was warm up ( 10 minutes run ) then redline , full brakes , a few bumpy bends listening for clunks or debri , BEFORE parting with hard earned cash .
If you havnt seen if itll withstand how you inteend to use it , you dont know if it will .

First Q. owner if its ' safe to redline ' .

If the suckers still running in , or tight , a bit more time spent feeling out its characteristics is called for . Heat Soak or not to heat soak .
Under 1.000 miles its notta brilliant idea . Oil Circulation & engine noises at full operateing temperature are worth a listen .
Should all be musical pices in motion , rather than rocks in can type noises .

Now its sorted!