Using 1" bars. Suggestions for retro clutch/brake controls?

[guitarmaker]

My current build is a 71 xs that's hopefully going to have the look of a 40's/50's bobber but I can't find much in the way of vintage style brake and clutch controls. All I can seem to find for the 1"bars is modern harley stuff. I ain't into that. Any suggestions?

 

[member3480]

I have used 1" bars on XS650 many times.
If you want old vintage parts you have to look for 60-70 Harley They had drum brakes on front of Sportsters in the 60's and clutch levers are also easy to get.
Now if you are running disk in front I use Honda VT750 brake master its 1" and you can buy new or used online. Some Vulcan and VTX also use the 1" format.
You are also going to have to change risers from the 7/8 to 1" also.

 

[guitarmaker]

Cool. Thanks. I am currently planning on front disc but I have a few drum wheels as well. I might change my mind during the mockup process. I'm using a DNA springer so I'm making custom risers.

 

[member3480]

OH ok if you go disk you have to use the DNA brake setup. Just to save you some money. The DNA threads are not the same as the Harley threads. I go to LOWES and buy course threaded bolts cut the head off and just thread the other half to fit risers.
One side will be course and other thin tread. Done a bunch.

 

[guitarmaker]

Excellent, that's a great tip. Thank you.

 

[fredintoon]

Hi guitarmaker,
how about going real old-style with inverted levers?
http://www.maundspeed.com/chopper_parts.html#!motorcycle-parts/c1yc2
Scroll the link to the 2nd page to see them.
The link that led me to the Maund site sez they come in 7/8" and 1" bar sizes.
You could run a cable to a hidden m/c for the front brake.

 

[guitarmaker]

Inverted levers crossed my mind but I'm thinking of doing an internal throttle cable. Not quite sure how to make both work.

 

[fredintoon]

Inverted levers crossed my mind but I'm thinking of doing an internal throttle cable. Not quite sure how to make both work.

Hi guitarmaker,
Some Harleys got electronic throttles these days and I saw a generic version offered at a bike show mebbe 10 years ago.
Should be easier to internalize a wire rather than a second control cable.
Or compromise with a straight pull BMW twistgrip?
BMW's design thought has always amused me; their boxer engine is as simple as a stone axe but their straight pull twistgrip has 2 bevel gears, a cam, a slider & link rod and a chain drive inside it.

 

[guitarmaker]

I'll look into those options. I also tossed around the idea of doing mechanical linkage like an old Indian. Lots of ideas that I'd like to try out. I'm feeling optimistic with the lathe and Bridgeport I just got.