Mountain Biking - Single finger levers

Ok lets say I have a problem where I am missing my second and third finger and my left hand is signifigantly smaller (the entire amrs musclature is smaller) then my right hand (my right hand is normal sized). I have issue with strength and/or consistency when braking using the front brake (left = front brake). Sometimes I can lock it and sometimes all I can do is get a good feathering. It is solid so this is not a mechanical issue this is definately a hand thing.

I have considered switch the brakes sides but it will require a new tube as it isn't long enough to reach over there. So my question is simple, do those single digit brake levers really work or is it more poppycock of the biking world. The only way I can consistently stop myself now is by using my first finger and pinky but that removes my hand from the handlebar (not safe when jumping etc...) I have switched to hydros which helped a tonne over my mechs but I do need some help here to get a consistent stopping.

I don't normally use this as an excuse or a need for anything (most people never even realize it when they meet me) but I am having issues here.

Cheers.

Mael, I seriously only use one finger on the brakes, but FWIW, I am a tradesman, and there aint no fat on my hands... (too bad bout the rest...)
Ive got Avid SD-5's, and they are 100% better n the Shimano STXRC's I had before... lots more power and alot obetter leverage.

Just a question, but have you done some physio? Or a touch up even for pointers, just to explain the need, and see if it can be addressed.

Scoob

:)...it is actually a musculature thing. My entire bone structure is smaller in my left hand. I have worked out for many years and it has never been noticable and in fact I am sure it isn't strength issue but a leverage one. To explain further I only have a single digit in my pinky and my first finger. I essentially have three thumbs (they look normal but don't function that way). That why I was hoping the different leverage levers would help.

But no I haven't seen anyone professionally to help. This is kind of an odd issue ;)

Btw I 1 finger brake entirely with my right hand :)

just look for a company that sells differant levers that are compatible with the Hayes, or the best option; Go Moto with the brakes

I am not sure what you mean by GO MOTO...you mean use mx brakes?

Can you adjust your contact point in? then you have the advantage of more leverage in close?

Yes...because of the size of my hand I have it moved in as tight as possible...in order to fully be allowed to close the lever...

I just read this. You need to check out Razor Rock Levers. There are two adjustment points on these levers. They are IMO exactly what you need. I think there address is http://www.razorrock.com/

My only question, why can't you switch sides? The hose won't reach? That doesn't make sense to me. The levers are/should be equidistance from the centerline of the bike. If the hose is too short to get to the end of the handlebars, loosen up the faceplate of the stem until you reverse levers.

I've got the razor rock levers and they are so much more comfortable that the standard Hayes lever.

L8R

"Go Moto", front brake right lever, rear brake left lever.

I too only use one finger when braking. It allows you to have more control on the bars at speed.

Give Razo Rock levers a try. Everyone I know that uses them likes them.

:beer:

Originally posted by a2psyklnut
I just read this. You need to check out Razor Rock Levers. There are two adjustment points on these levers. They are IMO exactly what you need. I think there address is http://www.razorrock.com/

My only question, why can't you switch sides? The hose won't reach? That doesn't make sense to me. The levers are/should be equidistance from the centerline of the bike. If the hose is too short to get to the end of the handlebars, loosen up the faceplate of the stem until you reverse levers.

I've got the razor rock levers and they are so much more comfortable that the standard Hayes lever.

L8R

I will look into those. I notice go-ride sells them. Thanx.

Problem is it is equidistance. If it were I would go moto. I actually have the levers that will unbolt completely off of the handlebar so I don't need them to reach all the way.

Thanx for the suggestion :)

How much are they at Go-Ride, you can buy them direct from Razor Rock for $69. I suggest you also get the tool to mount those from Balle Racing. Tool is like $55.00, but make install a breeze.

L8R

Thanx a2 I always wondered what that tool was for. Now I know ;)...gonna have to save for this as in canadian this is gonna cost around 200$ :)

I've got the cheaper Shimano M525. They are really powerful. Supposedly the M555 are even more powerful, but I don't see how. I always only use one finger for braking. If I use two, I'm over the bars or skidding. I have tested several bikes with several different brakes, even with 8" Hayes, and mine seem to be more powerful than any of them. They're probably alot heavier though. I've let my friends ride it, including one that works in a bike shop and has been in about 100 races over the past 10 years, and they can't believe how powerful they are. Anyway, not trying to toot my own horn by any means, but they may be something to look in to.