Brake upgrade
 

Considering upgrading the brakes on my '80s Schwinn Cruiser from the stock Weimanns to Tekro dual pivots. I'm, just not sure if I should. The Weimanns actually stop pretty good and they look the part, but I know dual pivots work better. Anyone has any thoughts?
https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...2ce8d7aaa1.jpg

With the style of caliper you have your options may be limited to better pads.

BUT you try these..... But they are spendy at $400 - - - - They are on sale from $700



https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...f69827db2e.jpg

But this is another option as you have a Springer and it keeps the look
https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...43d3c2927c.jpg


WHile you have to change the front hub you can go for a Brake Drum or go Modern with a disk and be Hydraulic or Mechanical
https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...2ee88aed91.jpg

Tekro makes dual pivot cruiser brakes : https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...W1WMD729&psc=1
https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...9e8fd51642.jpg

While I was trying to be light with the first ones I do wonder if these would clear the fenders as the forward arm hangs down a bit lower. In the picture I does look like the rear fender is squished or at least pushed down.


That said when I was a kid in the. 70s on of my friends had a very similar Schwinn. 5 spd with a springer fork and iirc a drum brake. I really liked the way it looked and that’s what I imagine for yours. On a heavier bike and being a heavier rider I appreciate the stopping power of the V brakes. Better too much than not enough.

She started life with the typical tube type fork. I was planning on motorizing her, that why I converted her to a springer but I grew to like riding her as a bicycle. The brakes are sufficient as is, but I know dual pivots are superior for braking power, but I'm afraid of screwing up the classic aesthetic . I know the fenders look weird it the pic, but the brakes clear just fine. As for the Tekro dual pivots keep in mind the front arm would be up higher when mounted on the bike and under cable tension. About even with the back arm.

I think it looks good. I was just thinking keeping the aesthetic with a drum brake would give you better and still look good.

Those Tektros look a little flimsy if you ask me. You won't get better stopping if they flex.

Are those Weimans more than 10 years old? If so, I'd get some new rubber on there and check the results.

I'm running fresh Salmon Koolstops.