Harley-Davidson 1926 JD "Horrible brakes by any standards,"

Harley-Davidson 1926 JD Ness the spray of sparks disappearing into the dark as the machine flies by. The sparkling and thundering spectacle is to any fireworks finale on the Fourth of july. What a sight and sound.
"Horrible brakes by any standards," remarks Carmem. Harley-Davidson had as yet to fit a brake in 1926 to its Big Twin models, so the impeding workload was born by a single external contracting rear brake band when the boot brake was applied, the clamping effect of the brake lining on the thin steel brake shell created enough friction and heat so as to cause serious distortion and brake fade. There was a real threat of colliding with immovable abjecs and others if care and skill were't exercised while trying to bring the beast to planned halt. A skilled rider could downshift and use the big engine's compression to assist the rear brake when coming to a stop. To remedy the brake shell distortion problem, some of the period motorcycle shops and blacksmiths applied a creative modification to minimize brake fade. A hollow steel insert with thick wall surface, like a large diameter pipe, was machined to fit inside the shell and sweat brazed in place. The insert was permanent.It strengthened the shell's brake surface, reduced the warpage, and gave the brake more efficient stopping power.



The beautifully restored Arctic Howler now graces the antique motorcycle display at Carmen's Harley-Davidson Motorclothes branch store located in Seattle, where it is looked after by store manager Michelle. It's ridden on special occasions and to promote local charities in the Seattle area. -M.F. Egan