I've done several things to improve the M50s brakes. When almost new I installed Dunlopads, DP323 if I remember correctly. These are NOT the HH rated pads, rather the normal Dunlop metallic pads. Great improvement and they last a long time. I've now got about 18K on them and they're about 1/3 worn. Got them from Dennis Kirk at <www.denniskirk.com> for about $43.
Centralizing the rear brake backing plate helps with rear brake effectiveness. To do this you start with the rear wheel jacked up off the ground. Loosen the rear axle nut until just finger tight. Then, spinning the rear wheel in a forward direction, clamp down on the brake pedal and hold it firmly while tightening the rear axle nut. It helps to have a second person holding the brake pedal down. This action forces the brake backing plate and shoe assemblies into the center of the drum and achieves better shoe to drum contact.
Another addition to my bike is Dunlop rear brake shoes. From Dennis Kirk again, they're of higher friction material than the originals and seem to offer much improved braking with less force. Of course I "centralized" the rear brakes when installing them!
I'd say I've achieved about a 30-35% increase in braking power with these techniques. The bike feels more surefooted as a result.
Hope that sheds a little light on the subject.
Ray Nielsen, in Minneapolis and went for a ride today!
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