More braking power for 1986 VFR750??

Has anyone done an Economical upgrade to the front brakes on a 1986 / 87 VFR700 /750?

Thinking maybe a four piston set up to replace the twin piston stock pieces.


I do realize starters would be stainless steel brake lines and upgraded / new brake pads but after that the next sep would be better calipers.


Any suggestions / ideas?


Thank you

 

Mounting 4 piston calipers most likely will involve using the forks that they came off of. Now think of everything else that will need to be replaced or modified for a new front end. I think you already typed out your economical upgrade.

 

I would definitely try upgrading to braided lines and perhaps a sintered brake pad first. I run kevlar brake lines and sintered pads which have been a great improvement over stock, but the 86 VFR is still heavy and will never stop like a modern sportbike, even if you were able to upgrade to 4-piston calipers.

 

The 16" front tires can only take so much braking force. I bought my bike with 5 year old Macadam tires and the brakes were too strong. I could easily lock the front tire. So I deactivated the right caliper using a solid bolt instead of the banjo. It worked well and reduced the chance of a front lockup. This was with original brake lines and master cylinder. (Maybe the PO swapped in HH pads? IDK)

Maybe your stock brakes are not at full potential? Did you swap the fluid? Make sure to get out all the air. Make sure both rotors are the same temp after a few stops. Make sure the pads are not contaminated with oil or brake fluid. How far does the brake lever travel? If there is lot's of travel left, you could try a slightly smaller diameter master cylinder. It will use more lever travel, but apply more pressure to the pads without you having to pull on the lever any harder.

If you think your front tire can handle it, then you can swap to larger diameter rotors as well as different calipers. You would only need to fabricate caliper adaptor mounts. 4 piston or 6 is up to you. People do these swaps all the time, but not usually on the older VFR's.