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[Porschestan]

I am still learning and not a expert in this area. (for that matter I don't think I am an expert period!).  Anyway after owning a 2012 Softail Convertible for 2 years I was just thinking:  why did they only put one disc brake on this bike verses dual discs on the other bikes?  It seems a bit questionable because the bike weighs less and has same/similar engine 110?

So here are my questions? Of course why only one disc? and do you guys think some modification would be advisable? Can it be converted to dual? If not, is there anything else that can be done to improve braking?  Is braking capabilities as is adequate?  I really don't know?

Thanks everyone..!  Looking forward to get your opinions...Stan

[2018_FLTRXSE]

I am still learning and not a expert in this area. (for that matter I don't think I am an expert period!).  Anyway after owning a 2012 Softail Convertible for 2 years I was just thinking:  why did they only put one disc brake on this bike verses dual discs on the other bikes?  It seems a bit questionable because the bike weighs less and has same/similar engine 110?

So here are my questions? Of course why only one disc? and do you guys think some modification would be advisable? Can it be converted to dual? If not, is there anything else that can be done to improve braking?  Is braking capabilities as is adequate?  I really don't know?

Thanks everyone..!  Looking forward to get your opinions...Stan

The breakout and the deluxe are the came way.

One our guys bought a breakout and is on the hunt to convert it to dual disc..

[Porschestan]

The breakout and the deluxe are the came way.

One our guys bought a breakout and is on the hunt to convert it to dual disc..

Did he tell you why he wanted to convert it to dual disc?  Did he feel that what he had was inadequate? 

[05Train]

You can convert it to dual disc, but it's not cheap.  There are aftermarket forks from Storz (for example) that'll both give you a better front end (inverted with cartridges) and the ability to add dual discs.  Then, of course, you'd need a larger master cylinder, new brake lines, and the additional rotor/caliper.  I think you can convert your front end to an FL and use Harley parts as well.

What I did on my Night Train was to use the dual disc master cylinder from an FXDX, a custom brake line, and a V-Rod Brembo and rotor.  Not as good as a dual disc setup, but far better than stock.

[GregKhougaz]

Hey Stan,

I am sure that those with more expertise will comment on this but here is my 2 cents. With a single disc, but for your ABS, you have more than enough braking power to lock up the front tire.  Another disk is superfluous and would add unnecessary weight.  If you were to install a second disk, you'd be under utilizing both.  Note the touring bikes with twin front brakes are significantly heavier than the Convertible, and carry more weight.  

GK

[Porschestan]

Hey Stan,

I am sure that those with more expertise will comment on this but here is my 2 cents. With a single disc, but for your ABS, you have more than enough braking power to lock up the front tire.  Another disk is superfluous and would add unnecessary weight.  If you were to install a second disk, you'd be under utilizing both.  Note the touring bikes with twin front brakes are significantly heavier than the Convertible, and carry more weight.  

GK

Hi Greg:

I get what you are saying and I am aware about the ABS, but I was thinking about the braking action prior to the ABS kicking in..In other words slowing down/stopping with less effort under normal braking.  I guess I should take a test ride on a bike with dual discs to compare how it feels..Thanks! Stan

[Pete7539]

If you may end up on an expensive brake conversion, maybe start off with a lyndall ceramic composite rotor and pad set. Buy one and try it out. If it's enough of an improvement then you're done. If not continue on with the rest of the conversion and buy another set. Just a thought... And last I knew he did offer 10 or 20% off for forum members. Call them directly to get discount.

[Porschestan]

If you may end up on an expensive brake conversion, maybe start off with a lyndall ceramic composite rotor and pad set. Buy one and try it out. If it's enough of an improvement then you're done. If not continue on with the rest of the conversion and buy another set. Just a thought... And last I knew he did offer 10 or 20% off for forum members. Call them directly to get discount.

Pete

Thanks for the suggestion.  Maybe to get improved braking I would only need to upgrade the rotors and pads?
Can anyone tell me what difference I might feel with this type of upgrade ?
Thanks!

[Pete7539]

I had duals on my ultra to begin with, but they were warped and after reading about the hd quality I only wanted to replace them once. I felt a big improvement over stock. Others who have them have had positive things to say as well. Plus they're a lot lighter, unsprung weight, but I'm not on a rocket anyway lol

[Porschestan]

I had duals on my ultra to begin with, but they were warped and after reading about the hd quality I only wanted to replace them once. I felt a big improvement over stock. Others who have them have had positive things to say as well. Plus they're a lot lighter, unsprung weight, but I'm not on a rocket anyway lol

Thanks for the report.  It's not as if there is anything "wrong" with my brakes.  They work fine, it's just that I am thinking that applying the brakes maybe one would need less strength applying the brakes, and the bike would slow down faster with less effort.

[Pete7539]

I think you'll feel less effort applied to lever and better braking. I did, and the rotors themselves look very nice IMO. Wheels stay cleaner longer, less dust.

[hogdooz]

Interesting thread, see my new post about brake system operation; maybe it will help improve your braking.

[Porschestan]

Interesting thread, see my new post about brake system operation; maybe it will help improve your braking.

Thank you, I read you posting...

[2018_FLTRXSE]

I think you'll feel less effort applied to lever and better braking. I did, and the rotors themselves look very nice IMO. Wheels stay cleaner longer, less dust.

I used LRB Gold pads on my 03 fatboy... loved the lack of brake dust and the improved braking power.

Now both our current HD's have them