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| Bill Dragoo | Gear
Missing the brake pedal can have dire consequences. Although most of our stopping power comes from the front brake, every foot we can shave from total stopping distance reduces risk.
Equally important for adventure riders is the added control afforded by effective rear brake usage. Tension between brake and clutch/throttle improves low speed stability, and a skillful brake skid can set up a turn or help direct the machine around obstacles when weaving down a steep slope. Relative pedal position changes completely from standing to sitting. For example, a maximum-performance braking maneuver requires the rider to move as far aft as possible, which limits forward articulation of the ankle, already somewhat limited when wearing stiff boots. BMW’s R Series Adventure models attempt to compensate for this with a flip-down pedal, but they are fussy and often left in only one position once set.
AltRider’s new Dual Control Brake System is a beautifully machined and brilliantly simple device that enhances the stock GS brake pedal in three ways. A fixed, billet aluminum enlarger plate makes the business end of the pedal almost impossible to miss; however, it is also more at risk for a rock strike. A folding design would be helpful here. A bolt-on riser (available in two height options) provides a taller perch for the toe to engage when needed, and optional grip pins can be screwed in place to optimize traction. The brake snake, a stout stainless steel cable, prevents weeds and saplings from fouling the pedal.
Ergonomics are critical to managing a heavyweight adventure machine. AltRider’s Dual Brake System is a serious improvement to the rear brake. Components are available as a kit or in individual pieces. MSRP: $69.97 AltRider.com
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Equally important for adventure riders is the added control afforded by effective rear brake usage. Tension between brake and clutch/throttle improves low speed stability, and a skillful brake skid can set up a turn or help direct the machine around obstacles when weaving down a steep slope. Relative pedal position changes completely from standing to sitting. For example, a maximum-performance braking maneuver requires the rider to move as far aft as possible, which limits forward articulation of the ankle, already somewhat limited when wearing stiff boots. BMW’s R Series Adventure models attempt to compensate for this with a flip-down pedal, but they are fussy and often left in only one position once set.
AltRider’s new Dual Control Brake System is a beautifully machined and brilliantly simple device that enhances the stock GS brake pedal in three ways. A fixed, billet aluminum enlarger plate makes the business end of the pedal almost impossible to miss; however, it is also more at risk for a rock strike. A folding design would be helpful here. A bolt-on riser (available in two height options) provides a taller perch for the toe to engage when needed, and optional grip pins can be screwed in place to optimize traction. The brake snake, a stout stainless steel cable, prevents weeds and saplings from fouling the pedal.
Ergonomics are critical to managing a heavyweight adventure machine. AltRider’s Dual Brake System is a serious improvement to the rear brake. Components are available as a kit or in individual pieces. MSRP: $69.97 AltRider.com
PROS |
CONS |
| ▲ Improved finesse when wearing stiff boots | ▼ Larger pedal is more susceptible to rock strikes |
| ▲ Enlarger plate is almost impossible to miss | ▼ A folding design would be helpful |
| ▲ Second position eases access, even when standing or moving rearward | ▼ No more excuses for running into your riding buddy |
| ▲ Brake snake sheds weeds and saplings | |
| ▲ Incredible fit and finish |
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