Is it OK to use the grub screw on the front brake lever to reduce the span to the lever? I've just bought an 821 Hyperstrada and I'm loving it but I find the front brake a bit enthusiastic for my tastes. Reducing the span to the lever might help but I'm already on '4' on the span adjuster.
No. The grub screw sets the return position of the piston. If it is adjusted too far the piston will not uncover the bleed hole that allows the fluid to return to the reservoir. It seems OK to start with until the brake gets hot and the fluid expands then the brake binds or worse locks on!
This happened to me once on a change of levers. Front end locked up solid as soon as it got hot, leave it in the correct position.
Happened to me on the clutch side only a few weeks back , I kept losing the clutch after about 15 minutes
The screw is there for adjustment otherwise why have one, having said that it should only be adjusted with extreme caution. I have needed to adjust mine on the clutch after fitting aftermarket levers, I did it with caution and have had no problem, I got the desired outcome. Just my opinion. Steve
The setup is like it in order to get the clevis pin into the lever\s. Although there is some adjustment possible I doubt Ducati envisioned it to be used as such. No manual I have read states that adjustment be made like this. Having said that do it if you can feel it is safe to do so.
Thanks Birdie. That's what I thought. Looking elsewhere, maybe some different pads would help? - the previous owner did say he'd changed them.... I still want the power, I'd just like a bit more choice about how much I get to start. Right now its like I've got a brake servo fitted. Must check what they are. PS. Like your signature - made me feel I should add mine:
Screwing it out will only increase the amount of free play before the lever begins to move the piston. It will not alter the rest position of the lever. If you feel you really want to play with the grub screw take note of the following (pinched from another forum) - Locate the screw on the side of the lever, then remove the master cylinder cover and seal. SLIGHTLY pump the brake or clutch lever (fluid will jump high if you operate it normally), and check for surface movement in the reservoir. Continue to slightly screw in the adjuster and check for fluid movement on top until there is no more (surface movement indicates that the return circuit is open, which is necessary to operate correctly). When you no longer see movement when pulling the lever, back out the adjuster counterclockwise one full turn, and check for movement again. You should be set then. Check for proper release and operation before heading around the block just to be safe.
