Over the past month I've been working with 324 LABS to develop a new version of their Brake Adapter System. The brainchild of this system is local racer Tim Cannard (aka Timmy C) and I am very excited about this unique product. A handful of the prototype systems were developed by Tim and another smart tinkerer named Denzil. The first generation systems have been undergoing real-world testing since last fall and the performance is stellar.
OVERVIEW:
This unique system enables cable-actuated road brake levers to operate hydraulic disc brakes commonly found on mountain bikes. It is currently aimed at the cyclocross market and I also have plans to build a custom, dual-disc road frame to demonstrate the advantages of this system.
PRE-ORDER NOW!
324 LABS is now accepting pre-orders for the system and introductory pricing is set at $140 which includes the following:
- 1X Left Split Clamp, 31.8mm, Hard Anodized 6061 aluminum
- 1X Right Split Clamp, 31.8mm, Hard Anodized 6061 aluminum
- 2X Actuator Arm, Hard Anodized 2024 aluminum
- Stainless Steel Mounting Hardware
- 4X Wheels Manufacturing Alloy Brake Ferrules
NEW! Added image of 'kit' contents on 7/11/11:
To secure your pre-order, please contact Tim at 'timmyc@netmagic.net' and online transactions are expected to be working at the 324 LABS website shortly. Dealer and frame builder inquiries welcome.
DESIGN DETAILS:
My new design contains left and right 'split clamps' that secure the system to a 31.8mm handlebar, very close the stem. This frees up space across the flats of the handlebar where the first generation design mounts.
The split clamps are 12mm wide and provide a rigid mounting structure for the Formula R1 cylindrical-shaped hydraulic reservoir. Initial tests of this design show zero flex at the mounting clamp which translates into better braking.
I've selected Wheels Manufacturing machined brake ferrules since they are much stiffer than plastic ones commonly used. As the brake cable enters the split clamp, it travels in a straight line to the actuator arm to provide superior lever feel. The brake cable is secured to the actuator arm within a cylindrical housing that contains opposing set screws that pinch the cable on both sides.
After installation, the left and right clamps are nested very close together while still leaving access to all key mounting bolts, stem bolts, etc.
PRELIM MASS ANALYSIS FOR FRONT BRAKE:
Formula R1 Brake (Caliper + Lever Only) = 277g
Subtract R1 Brake Lever, Bar Clamp, Mounting Hardware = -26g
Add Brake Adapter System from 324 LABS = +30g
Total Mass Gain = +4 g
This analysis does not include the disc rotor since many options are available to the end user (Rotor diameter, ISO mount, post-mount 74mm, etc). The message here is that the 324 LABS Brake Adapter System adds less than 10 grams total (left + right) to the original Formula R1 Brake setup - sweet!
