Random Design Question

[Gingernut]

I was thinking (dangerous I know!!!) and I suddenly wondered...

Could you mount the rear brake for a bike off the wheel, i.e. on the other end of the final drive. I suppose if it could be done it would have to be shaft drive because any slack in a chain drive would screw up the braking.

I know the obvious question is why would you want to, but its more just idle curiosity on my part, I'm pretty certain the way they do it at the moment is the best way.

Also does anyone know of any attempts in the past to relocate the braking system for either the front or back wheel (once again just curious)?

Thanks
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[mchaggis]

I can't think of any bikes like that, but originally brakes on vehicles were inboard on the back axle. Some tractors and things have enclosed disc brakes on their back axles still. Limited slip differentials and things tend to be on the axle too, though you do get them by the transfer box.

I think the lack of space on a bike would prohibit it. As an aside, the bikes with hydraulic drive are unlikely to have brakes other than the control valves varying the flow rate.
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[Lone-Wolf]

[Kickstart]

Hi

There are cars with inboard disk brakes. Make it a total pain to change the brake pads. The Alfasud had inboard disks on the front, with the handbrake on the front as well, and some models of Lotus Esprit had inboard disks.

I have a feeling that there are some shaft drive bikes with the brake on the gearbox.

The advantage of inboard brakes is that there is a large saving in unsprung weight.

All the best

Keith
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