Brake upgrades 99 vn1500 drifter

[mittico68]

(I have a similar problem with the kickstand bolt hole being wallowed out - making the kickstand stick out further than it should when deployed - Not sure how I'm going to fix that one - maybe weld up and drill a new hole),

I have the same problem on my '99 Drifter 800.
As I was planning to fix it, last summer I made a research on the net for the how-to's, so I came across a video of a kawa's owner (maybe a Classic? I can't remember) with the same issue.
But I guess you already know the way to accomplish the task.

[Bucko]

The OEM part number for 99/00 REAR pads is different from the 01-later. But aftermarket pad makers use the same pads for all years... if that makes sense.

Yea, that's a bit odd - or maybe it isn't.  At one time I think MFR used less grabby pads on the rear to make it more difficult to lock up the rear tire??

I don't think braking is different between years, so it really has to be something in the braking system... Pads, bleeding/air, rotors within specs, brake cylinders inspection/rebuild.

Yea, I need to take a look over the winter.  I will put on SS lines at some point.  One issue I do have, and maybe it's normal on the 99's (but I doubt it), is the pivot shaft for the brake pedal is really wobbly in it's hole.  So, when pressing on the brake pedal, a portion of the initial pedal travel is simply taken up by the pedal 'twisting'.  (I have a similar problem with the kickstand bolt hole being wallowed out - making the kickstand stick out further than it should when deployed - Not sure how I'm going to fix that one - maybe weld up and drill a new hole),

[Bucko]

I was thinking for along the lines of dual rotor front brakes...

Not easy if you're planning on keeping the drifter front fender.

[Troll]

Well, that can't happen.

[Highc5555]

I was thinking for along the lines of dual rotor front brakes...

[gwilki]

I replaced the 22-year old rubber brake lines with stainless steel. It's just seat of the pants observation, but I believe the brakes, particularly the rear, are much better. I'm sure that others here will say that it's not possible, but since you are looking for options, I believe that new lines are one to think about.

[chief]

Here is some info which may help with brake pads.

Brake Pads and Bleeding

The OEM part number for 99/00 REAR pads is different from the 01-later. But aftermarket pad makers use the same pads for all years... if that makes sense.

I don't think braking is different between years, so it really has to be something in the braking system... Pads, bleeding/air, rotors within specs, brake cylinders inspection/rebuild.

[Bucko]

I would suggest you have a look at the brake pads first, and then check out the brake system itself. I've found the braking to be good on my 2002.

Agreed.  Having said that.  The brakes on my 01 are better than the brakes on the 99 (which are still good enough).  I assume it's different pads, however the work invoice I got from the PO shows the 99 has the same pads (double sintered) as the 01 - I need to verify that sometime.  I flushed both front rear of the 99 when I picked it up and the front improved dramatically but the rear (which is exceptionally stong on my 01) didn't improve with the flush.

[chief]

Does anyone know if there is a brake upgrade I can put on my 99 Drifter? I'm a big guy and I find the braking leaves something to be desired when decelerating from highway speeds. thanks in advance.

I would suggest you have a look at the brake pads first, and then check out the brake system itself. I've found the braking to be good on my 2002.

[Highc5555]

Does anyone know if there is a brake upgrade I can put on my 99 Drifter? I'm a big guy and I find the braking leaves something to be desired when decelerating from highway speeds. thanks in advance.