More proof that racing improves the breed comes from Dime City Cycles, who are developing a 3-piece brake conversion kit to replace the rod-actuated rear brake setup used on vintage CB350s and similar bikes. Learning from his time on the track with their CB350 in AHRMA racing, Dime City’s Herm Narciso developed a cable-actuated rear brake setup to eliminate the possibility of unintended braking on full swingarm compression, which can result in brake rod pull. “It’s not enough to stop you,” Herm notes, “but in a bumpy corner it can get your attention.” The cable also aids converting to rearsets since you don’t need to adapt the brake rod.
We installed an early beta version on my son Charlie’s project 1972 CB350, and Herm’s definitely got something here. Installation was straightforward and brake actuation excellent. Production kits will feature a revised rear bracket for more direct cable pull and the bracket will accommodate the Honda’s stock brake plate stay bolt. Expected price: $69.95.