Help improving front brakes on '82 RS

[waddyp]

The braking on my '82 RS (Brembo) is weak link. Has anyone experience upgrading brakes to contemporary power? I.E. 320mm rotors and multi-piston calipers, with modern master cyl. Can they be made to fit? Would it work? My brakes work as BMW intended, an improvement over those of my old 90S, but they pale compared to modern brakes in power. I'd appreciate any input. Thanks, Ed

[Ridealot]

If you have an extra bucket full of cash you could go with all modern equipment. But I don't think you are going to be taking advantage of modern brakes with 30 year old suspension, tire and frame technology.

I would suggest going the braided stainless steel brake line route and good pads. Then just ride the bike at the pace it likes. If you want to go fast and do stoppies then there are much better bikes for that. Wouldn't a Ducati look cool parked next to your RS. And a used Duc wouldn't be very much more money than you would probably spend trying to upgrade your RS's brakes.

Of course my opinion is just that, my own opinion. :wave

[flash412]

+1 on the SS lines.
Galfer Green brake pads.
That's all you need.

[carockwell]

You cannot make your bike stop like a modern bike without changing the front suspension. Its not worth it. Like the previous post says, you could buy a newr bike for less than the upgrade. Optimize the brakes you have. One thing you can do is get your new brake disks cryogenically heat treated. They will last almost twice as long for an extra $25 each.

[pmdave]

You might discover that the system isn't really up to snuff. The disc/pad relationship can make a big difference in brake performance.

You can buy semi-floating EBC rotors/carriers that will bolt right on. Fresh aftermarket friction pads will also be an improvement over the antique BMW pads. Yes, the SS braided hoses will reduce flex and therefore some of the "rubbery" feeling at the lever.

Check the brake switch. If it's hydraulic, consider replacing it with a new one. I've had old switches get sticky, adding flex to the system. See VW for cheaper switches.

Check the caliper/rotor alignment, to ensure that the calipers really are centered over the discs.

Flush the system, and check that the calipers are not partially seized by corrosion. Consider rebuilding the calipers if you havn't already done so. Fresh fluid also helps (you know, the stuff without all the water absorbed in it).

pmdave

[Bigrider]

Hey look on the lighter side, there are some benifits to the old brake system.

-Your right looks like it has been to the gym (left arm too, if you have an R90/6 and work the clutch)

-You eyesight is gets exercised. Who else can notice traffic stopping a mile down the road.

- Your four letter word vocabulary gets a work out when you get scared. (I've heard those words before, but never in that order.)

Dave H
San Antonio, TX