classic motorcycle forum

Motorcycle Discussions => Japanese Bikes => Topic started by: sean1 on January 23, 2007, 04:28:20 AM

Title: cb550
Post by: sean1 on January 23, 2007, 04:28:20 AM

 :-/ hello there,ive just purchased a 1978 cb 550,its got 40k on the clock and is in great nick,its only my second bike,and feels like holding on to a wild horse,but great fun!i have only one question someone might be able to answer; the back brake seems soft. i have to give it plenty of boot to start getting purchase on the brake.is this normal for a bike of this age,im told the bike has just been serviced,and if so should i consider an upgrade?thanks sean

Title: Re: cb550
Post by: VintageBike on January 23, 2007, 04:49:01 AM

what bike are you used to riding?  Brakes on older bikes are usually "poor" compared to more modern bikes - but they should still be effective.
Nigel.

Title: Re: cb550
Post by: sean1 on January 23, 2007, 06:56:20 AM

i have a yamaha tw125 02

Title: Re: cb550
Post by: L.A.B. on January 23, 2007, 07:06:35 AM

I don't remember my CB550 (F1) rear brake being that bad (or the front brake), but I don't remember it being that good either! Well, it was nearly thirty years ago since I sold it.
But you cannot really compare brakes of that era with more modern types, but if you are in any doubt about it working correctly then I suggest you strip it down and check the assembly.