Hey guys,

Iv got a Dunlop shredder. its got a great frame, but is brakes and handlebars are weak!!!! it uses the old brakes with the pivot above the wheel. they are totally useless! can a weld on newer v-brakes (i need the pivots on the forks) or are there good quality single-pivot brakes??? the stem( i think that what its called) is also inadequate!! it doesnt grip the hanblebars and so a always have to stop and bump them back into position. what stem should i get??? i really like this bike coz its really chunky and tough, but i need to do these pimps!! p.s. i dont wana have to take out a home-loan to buy all these things.

thanks for all your help.

You don't need to buy a new stem. For the stem, take a band saw and cut shallow grooves into the stem where the handlebars go (cut grooves parallel to the handlebars). Single pivots aren't that great, but you can add L brackets (like the ones used in bracing a shelf to the wall) between the brake pad and the brake arm. Have the bottom of the bracket to almost touch the frame; that way the brakes won't flex when you stop because the bracket will touch the frame. And use a straight cable. I'd do this before I would weld on new bosses.

okay thanks man. is there anything else i can do to relieve any friction in the caliper?

Make sure they're properly adjusted: http://www.parktool.com/repair/readhowto.asp?id=22

It might also be the cable that's the problem, try running some light oil down inside the cable housing