RE: [CR]Centerpull brakes

(Example: Framebuilding:Brazing Technique)

Date: Fri, 08 Mar 2002 23:25:27 -0700
To: "Beyer Jr., Chris (C.C.)" <cbeyer2@volvocars.com>, "'Thomas Rawson'" <twrawson@worldnet.att.net>, classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
From: "Bicycle Classics inc" <bikevint@tiac.net>
Subject: RE: [CR]Centerpull brakes


My vote for an older Hetchins is Mafac. Hetchins sold bare frames, and Mafac parts were very common in the UK from what I understand. A typical 60's or early 70's Dural Forge model (OK, even the Racers) can be set up to stop like crazy. Its a bit hard to get them not to squeek.

With soft original MAFAC pads I've ridden bikes with Mafac centerpulls that seem to have worlds more stopping power than Campy sidepulls. I ride a bit here in Colorado on dirt mountain descents where speed build ups are a problem - lots of switchbacks and all sorts of nastiness - and a bike set up with Mafacs just gives a lot of confidence. But - if you use those no-name Mafac look alike pads that melt under heat, then you will certainly perish. Mike "once scrapped an entire brake pad off a rim" Kone

At 01:36 PM 3/6/02 -0500, Beyer Jr., Chris (C.C.) wrote:
>Tom:
>
>Given the origins of the bike, my vote would go to GB centerpulls, such as the 66, which are quite aesthetically pleasing. Nowhere near as common as DiaCompe/Weinmann/etc., but they're out there and not hideously expensive if you look around. Personally, I think either Mafac or Universal would not be appropriate for a Hetchins. Hilary Stone, Martin Coopland, Pete Paine, and others are good resources for some of the British bits which didn't make it to this side of the pond in large numbers.
>
>Hope this helps.
>
>Chris
>_________________________________________________
>Chris Beyer
>Volvo Cars of North America, LLC
>Customer Relations
>Rockleigh, NJ USA
>
>Telephone: 800.550.5658
>E-mail: CBeyer2@volvocars.com