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How to install a serpentine brake in the motorcycle?
How to install a serpentine brake in the motorcycle?
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How to install a serpentine brake in the motorcycle?
Serpentine brakes, also called brake savers or pedal anchors, protect the rear brake pedal from disasters on the trail.
The kits are economical and easy to install. Alternatively, you can build your own with some basic hardware and steel cable. They are very simple and quite effective.
First we'll look at how they work, then we'll walk through the setup process to prepare for a gnarly ride.
What is a serpentine brake?
A brake snake ties the rear brake pedal to the motorcycle frame to prevent damage and jamming. A typical brake snake consists of a short length of braided steel cable, some crimp ferrules, and a cable sheath, often made of rubber tubing. Fancy brake snakes might have screw-on rings and mounting tabs that screw onto the frame.
The basic idea is the same regardless of the design, so don't worry too much about choosing the “right” one. Off-road racers have used serpentine brakes since the early days of Baja racing to improve durability in technical environments. Some motorcyclists also tie gear levers.
How does a serpentine brake work?
Properly installed, a brake snake leaves enough room for free movement of the pedal, but not much more. Any outward bending of the brake pedal following a hard impact on the right side is limited by the length of the brake snake. Sure, your pedal might bend an inch from its usual position, but that's better than a pedal bent backwards into a U, or modified so much that the pedal, especially an aluminum one, breaks. Brake snakes should increase your odds of finishing a ride or race after a big wipeout.
Brake snakes also deflect debris. Have you ever gotten a stick or vine stuck between the brake pedal and the frame of your motorcycle? A stuck brake pedal is a safety issue, plus it takes some of the fun out of your ride. Brake snakes resist snagging by blocking the narrow space inside the rear brake pedal. While it doesn't guarantee jam-free operation, a brake snake should shrug off the worst of it.
How to install a brake snake
Adding a brake snake is a quick and easy modification that any rider can handle. You will need a brake coil kit, a drill, a drill bit slightly larger than the diameter of the cable, and cutting pliers. (Electrician's or lineman's pliers work well. Of course, kits with screw-on ferrules require screwdrivers instead of pliers.)
You can save a few bucks by recycling an old clutch cable into your brake coil kit. The clutch cables already have a braided steel core, a durable outer jacket and a ball end. All you need is a ferrule from your local hardware store to create the loop.
Find a spot on the brake pedal where you can drill a hole that will barely fit the brake snake's steel cable. Position the hole as far forward as possible. Some dirt bikes already have a hole through the rear brake pedal for this purpose. Slide the steel cable as we move on to the model step.
Proper positioning of the brake snake meets three conditions: a full range of motion of the pedal, secure support on the frame in front of the pedal, and complete blocking of the vulnerable space of the pedal frame. Try a few different cable mounting positions until you find the right spot: better too loose than too tight.
Once you've found the location, cut the protective sheath if necessary, then slide the sheath over the cable, followed by the ferrule. Insert the end of the cable into the ferrule to complete the frame loop, then crimp the ferrule to secure your new brake snake. Trim away the excess and hit the trail after making sure the brake pedal has a full range of motion.
The whole process takes a few minutes with basic hand tools and could save your next day in the dirt. Have fun out there!
⚠️ Legal Notice – Important Product Declaration
This product is not certified, approved, or homologated for use on public roads or highways in any country. It is intended for off-road use only, including closed-course racing, sports competition, or private testing . Installation and use of this product on vehicles operating on public roads is strictly prohibited and may violate traffic laws, emissions regulations, or roadworthiness inspection requirements.
By purchasing this product, the customer acknowledges and accepts the following:
- The product is sold “as is” for sports or off-road use only.
- It is not approved for road circulation and must not be used on public roads under any circumstances.
- Seller assumes no responsibility for improper, illegal or unauthorized use of this product.
- The customer is solely responsible for ensuring that the installation and use of the product complies with local laws and regulations.
- Use of this product outside of its intended use may affect your vehicle warranty and insurance coverage.
This notice applies regardless of the country to which the product is purchased or shipped, including (but not limited to) the United States, Canada, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.
By proceeding with the purchase, you confirm that you have read, understood and accepted this legal notice, and you release the seller from any liability arising from improper or unauthorized use of the product.
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