A popular modification for owners of R series classic BMW's who have the under tank brake master cylinder fitted as standard is to move the master cylinder to the handlebars.
This modification replaces the original cable operation meaning more positive and consistant braking performance, alongside the fitment of a master cylinder with a smaller bore size more suitable for the performance of the standard brake caliper.
There are a few ways of doing this, with some being easier to achieve than others mostly due to parts availability.
The easiest way is by using a Monolever (1985 onwards) handlebar clamp. No cables are required as this way uses the original twin pull pre 1981 cables.
See the table below for the part description and part number to achieve the conversion:
| Part description |
Motorworks part number |
| Monolever clamp (fitted to bikes built from 1985 onwards) |
HAA54461 |
| 1981 onwards lever and lever pivot |
HAA42555 & SSA30870 |
| Top cover to suit Monolever clamp |
HAA57039 |
| Top cover screw |
SSA32668 |
| Master cylinder to clamp bolt x2 |
SSA22418 (M5x20) x2 |
| Master cylinder (12mm or 13mm) |
BRA10784 13mm / BRA02369 12mm |
| Upper brake hose |
Check handlebar height |
| Throttle bevel and chain |
40mm carbs use HAA33535D / 32mm carbs use HAA33535H |
| Brake light switch (torpedo type) |
ELA59569 (connectors require modification) |
| Hose splitter (3 port) |
BRA41568 |
When carrying out changes like this, it is important to not overlook the condition of the other components of the braking system currently fitted, such as your calipers, brake pads and brake discs.
