Lexikon
ABE - GENERAL OPERATING AUTHORISATION FOR MOTORCYCLE PARTS
The ABE (general operating licence) is a confirmation that the vehicle or vehicle part complies with national regulations. It is issued for series vehicles and series parts by the Federal Motor Transport Authority. If a modification approval must also be carried out by an expert, this is stated in the respective operating licence for vehicle parts. The operating licence is only valid in Germany. The ABE must be carried in order to be able to present it during a traffic check.
WARNING
Material loss (wear) on the surface of brake pads and brake discs caused by mechanical stress
ABS
The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is a technical system for greater driving safety. By reducing the brake pressure, the ABS counteracts the possibility of the wheels locking, thereby enabling the vehicle to be steered. A sensor measures the wheel rotations and balances them between the front and rear wheels. If the wheel rotations are too low, the computer releases the brake pressure and the wheel can turn again.
BRAKE PAD
The brake pad is a metallic component that is pressed against the brake disc. Metal carriers are used with brake pads made of various fibre composite materials and sintered metal. The brake pads wear out due to friction during braking and need to be replaced over time.
BRAKE PRESSURE
Brake pressure describes the pressure that is built up in the brake lines by the brake master cylinder and brake booster when the brake pedal is pressed and transmitted to the brake pistons via the brake lines.
BRAKE FADING
Fading or brake fade describes the reduction in the braking effect of the brake system due to heating of the brake, e.g. through repeated or prolonged braking processes.
This can significantly increase the braking distance. This effect can be reduced by using steel flex lines.
BRAKE FLUID
Brake fluid is used in the hydraulic transmission of vehicle brakes. As there is no reduction in the volume of the hydraulic fluid at high pressure, the same braking pressure is maintained in the brake system at all times. Brake fluids are harmful to health and can irritate the skin and eyes. Paintwork and metallic surfaces can also be attacked.
Brake fluids are categorised into DOT classes based on their different boiling points:
DOT 3: Glycol (boiling point > 205 C° / wet boiling point > 140 C°)
DOT 4: Glycol (boiling point > 230 C° / wet boiling point > 155 C°)
DOT 5: Silicone (boiling point > 260 C° / wet boiling point > 180 C°)
DOT 5.1: Glycol (boiling point > 260 C° / wet boiling point > 180 C°)
DOT 5.1 is used in almost all other motorbikes and cars. It is a synthetic brake fluid with a high wet boiling point.
In order to obtain a brake fluid compatible with DOT 3 (glycol-based) and DOT 4 (glycol-based) with DOT 5 specifications, the glycol-based brake fluid DOT 5.1 was developed. DOT 5 brake fluid (silicone-based) must not be mixed with any other type of brake fluid.
Glycol-based brake fluids in particular draw water and should be replaced regularly.
BRAKE FORCE
The force that must be applied to reduce the speed of a vehicle. The faster a vehicle is travelling, the higher the braking force must be.
BRAKE FORCE AMPLIFIER
The brake booster supports the force applied by the driver via the brake to the brake master cylinder, which significantly reduces the force required when braking.
BRAKE LINE
Brake lines or brake hoses are used to transfer the brake fluid and therefore the brake pressure within the brake system. Brake lines made of rubber become porous or swell over time, which means that full braking performance is no longer achieved. This is why we recommend steel flex brake lines, which do not suffer from these problems. They also have an almost unlimited service life.
BRAKE LIGHT SWITCHES
Also known as stop light switches. These are actuated by hydraulics and control brake light systems or other components.
BRAKE DISC
The part of the brake system attached to the brake hub that brings the vehicle to a standstill by applying pressure to the brake pads, usually made of a steel alloy. A higher braking effect can be achieved through perforations or „wave design“, as water, brake dust and heat are better removed.
BRAKE DISC DIAMETER
Diameter of a brake disc. The larger the brake disc surface, the better the heat dissipation can take place. The braking effect can also increase with the diameter of the brake disc.
BRAKE HOSE
Another name for brake hose (see brake hose)
BRAKING DISTANCE
The braking distance is the distance travelled from the start of the actual braking process until the vehicle comes to a standstill. The length of the braking distance depends on the speed travelled and braking deceleration.
brake caliper
The brake calliper presses the brake pad onto the brake disc. With hydraulic actuation, the pads are pressed onto the brake disc by one or more movable pistons, with mechanical actuation by corresponding levers.
BRAKE CYLINDERS
Brake cylinders transfer the required pressure to the hydraulics or pneumatics in the brake system,
A distinction is made between two types of brake cylinders. Master brake cylinders transfer the pressure to the pneumatic or hydraulic system, while wheel brake cylinders transfer the pressure built up by the master brake cylinder in the brake system to the brake shoes in drum brakes, for example. With disc brakes, the brake cylinder is located directly in the brake calliper and generates pressure on the brake pads. With air brakes, the pressure cylinder is attached directly to the chassis and actuates the brake cams, which spread the brake shoes.
CNC
Computerised Numerical Control refers to an electronic, computer-controlled process for controlling machine tools (CNC machines). The multi-axis milling machines are used for the three-dimensional milling of various components.
CORE
ride hard - brake hard
The "CORE" brake and clutch lever set from the probrake ROCK product series
You've always wanted one! The variably adjustable hand lever set “CORE“ offers a bold look, full control and guarantees casual cruising.
Less effort when clutching and braking with the custom levers anodised in DarkBlack or ShiningSilver and milled from the aluminium block.
Outstanding design - available for almost all Harley-Davidson models! One set includes the ready-to-fit levers - for brake and clutch
- 6-stage grip width adjustment ergonomically adjustable for each hand
- Improved leverage ensures optimum control and ease when braking and clutching
- Optimised hand contact surface of 80 mm length and up to 25 mm width
- Best fit and precise bearing - significantly less play than any standard lever
- CNC machined from a solid block of aluminium
- Available in the anodised colours „DarkBlack“ or „ShiningSilver“
- Delivery including ABE and assembly instructions
- No further registration costs - plug & ride!
... with our probrake “CORE“ levers you get the legal and optimal control over your bike!
Sealing rings
Are used between ring fittings and banjo bolts to seal the brake system. They are also used for some threaded connections. They are available in different diameters and materials.
DOT
DOT classes were created to determine standards and classifications for brake fluids according to their boiling point.
DOT 3: Glycol (boiling point > 205 C° / wet boiling point > 140 C°)
DOT 4: Glycol (boiling point > 230 C° / wet boiling point > 155 C°)
DOT 5: Silicone (boiling point > 260 C° / wet boiling point > 180 C°)
DOT 5.1: Glycol (boiling point > 260 C° / wet boiling point > 180 C°)
TORQUE
denotes a physical force that must be applied to set a free-moving body in rotation. This force is measured in Newton metres (Nm). Torque = force x distance.
The torque can accelerate or decelerate the rotation of a body. Together with the speed, the torque determines the transmitted power in drive shafts, for example.
Pressure point
The pressure point is the pedal travel at which a brake responds.
A change in the volume of conventional brake lines, e.g. due to a change in temperature or wear on the lines, can change the pressure point. A constant pressure point can be achieved by using steel flex lines.
Braking
Describes the gentle running-in of new brake discs and pads. This ensures that the surfaces of the brake discs and pads adapt to each other. If this is not done, uneven wear of the friction surfaces can occur, which can lead to uneven braking and squealing brake noises. Full braking should be avoided for the first few kilometres
.ELOXAL
Anodising (electrolytic anodic oxidation) is an electrochemical process that converts the surface of the aluminium into aluminium oxide. This process protects the aluminium from corrosion and the effects of weathering. Anodised parts are available in various colours.
VENTILATING
Bleeding the brake line system is necessary when replacing brake hoses or brake fluids. The bleed screw or bleed valve can be used to remove the air in the brake line, which reduces the braking effect.
FITTING
Designates the connections on the steel flex lines. A distinction is made between ring fittings that are fastened with a banjo bolt and threaded fittings that are screwed directly into the component
FLOATER
Floaters provide the connection between the inner ring and outer ring of the brake disc. Floaters ensure unhindered expansion and contraction of the outer ring.
FORCE
FORCEed to brake
The probrake “FORCE“ brake discs from the ROCK product series
Combine top performance with outstanding design! Made from the highest quality materials, the semi-floating brake discs are extremely robust and ensure exceptionally good braking performance.
- With general operating licence (ABE)
- Extremely good deceleration values
- Up to 40% lighter than OEM brake discs
- Best response behaviour
- Best modulation without brake rubbing / fading
- Optimised outer ring contour for maximum stability and cooling
- Stainless steel floaters guarantee a long service life
- Inner ring made of high-strength aluminium, anthracite hard anodised
- Semi-floating bearing
- Can be used with all brake pads
probrake brake discs can be used with all brake pad manufacturers. We recommend sintered metal pads from brand manufacturers. We can also supply you with the matching brake pads on request.
TORQUE INCREASE
There are a variety of different thread pitches for brake systems on motorbikes. Metric threads such as M10 x 1.00 are mostly used in European vehicles. Inch threads such as 3/8“ UNF are used in American vehicles! To make things a little clearer, we have broken down some common vehicles and products:
APRILIA, BIMOTA, BMW, CAGIVA, DUCATI, MOTO GUZZI
- M10 x 1.00
HARLEY DAVIDSON
- Until 2004: single front disc UNF 3/8 x 24 for the brake calliper and UNF 7/16 x 24 for the handbrake cylinder, double front disc UNF 3/8 x 24
- From 2004 mixed M10 x 1.00 and M12 x 1.5
- For Brembo/HD brake callipers M10 x 1.00
HONDA
- M10 X 1.25, even if Brembo brake calipers are fitted ex works
- The CB 500 has Brembo, (M10 x 1.00)
KAWASAKI
- M10 X 1.25
SUZUKI
- Until 1994: M10 x 1.00
- From 1994: M10 x 1.25 on the front brake callipers / clutch and rear M10 x 1.00
- From 2002 M10 x 1.25 / even if Brembo brake calipers are fitted ex works
TRIUMPH
- Until 1980: UNF 3/8 x 24
- From 1980: M10 x 1.25M10 X 1.25, even if Brembo brake calipers are fitted ex works
YAMAHA
- M10 x 1.25
- At production site Italy with Brembo brake calipers M10 x 1.00
- M10 x 1.25 / even if Brembo brake calipers are fitted ex works
GENERAL
- Brembo: M10 x 1.00
- Kustom Tech: M10 x 1.00
- ISR: M10 x 1.25
- Moto Master: M10 x 1.00
- Nissin: M10 x 1.25
- Tokico: M10 x 1.25
- ABM: M10 x 1.00
- SPIEGLER: M10 x 1.00
HARTELOXAL
Hard anodising (also known as hard coating) is an electrochemical process that converts the surface of the aluminium into aluminium oxide. In this special finishing process, particularly hard, durable and abrasion-resistant aluminium surfaces can be achieved.
MAIN BRAKE CYLINDER
The pressure-generating cylinder in the hydraulic brake system is known as the master brake cylinder. It converts the force applied by the foot or fingers into hydraulic braking force. Today, tandem brake master cylinders are required by law in passenger cars, where two brake cylinders sit one behind the other, which actuates the dual-circuit brake system.
Hollow bolts
Hollow bolts are used to fasten brake lines and are designed to feed through the hydraulic fluid. Metric threads such as M10 x 1.00 are mostly used in European vehicles. Inch threads such as 3/8“ UNF are used in American vehicles! To make things a little clearer, we have broken down some common vehicles and products:
APRILIA, BIMOTA, BMW, CAGIVA, DUCATI, MOTO GUZZI
- M10 x 1.00
HARLEY DAVIDSON
- Until 2004: single front disc UNF 3/8 x 24 for the brake calliper and UNF 7/16 x 24 for the handbrake cylinder, double front disc UNF 3/8 x 24
- From 2004 mixed M10 x 1.00 and M12 x 1.5
- For Brembo/HD brake callipers M10 x 1.00
HONDA
- M10 X 1.25, even if Brembo brake calipers are fitted ex works
- The CB 500 has Brembo, M10 x 1.00)
KAWASAKI
- M10 X 1.25
SUZUKI
- Until 1994: M10 x 1.00
- From 1994: M10 x 1.25 on the front brake callipers / clutch and rear M10 x 1.00
- From 2002 M10 x 1.25 / even if Brembo brake calipers are fitted ex works
TRIUMPH
- Until 1980: UNF 3/8 x 24
- From 1980: M10 x 1.25M10 X 1.25, even if Brembo brake calipers are fitted ex works
YAMAHA
- M10 x 1.25
- At production site Italy with Brembo brake calipers M10 x 1.00
- M10 x 1.25 / even if Brembo brake calipers are fitted ex works
GENERAL
- Brembo: M10 x 1.00
- SPIEGLER: M10 x 1.00
- Kustom Tech: M10 x 1.00
- ABM: M10 x 1.00
- Moto Master: M10 x 1.00
- Nissin: M10 x 1.25
- Tokico: M10 x 1.25
Please note that all information on thread pitches is subject to change and must always be checked on the vehicle.
We accept no liability for errors or deviations. Please check banjo bolts before installation!
HYDRAULICS
In the narrower sense, the term refers to systems that use pressure differences to transmit signals, power and energy. In motorbikes and cars, for example, hydraulic brakes use the brake fluid to transmit power continuously in the lines from the brake pedal/lever to the brake pistons.
Power steering, clutch or chassis control can also be controlled hydraulically.
CONFIGURATOR
We offer the option of customising steel flex lines specifically for individual car or motorbike tuning or for equipping classic cars and modern classics. By specifying the cable length, the types of connections and the type of sheathing, we manufacture the cable to fit perfectly and deliver it with a certificate.
CORROSION
Describes the reaction of a material to its environment, commonly the oxidation of metals due to environmental influences. Corrosion can lead to changes and possibly impair the function of the material. Moisture plays a key role in corrosion.
LOWER ENDS
These serve as a closure and vibration damper for the handlebars.
handlebar height adjustment
The risers are mounted directly on the original lower handlebar clamps and ensure improved ergonomics, a more relaxed riding position and a more direct riding experience. There are different vehicle-specific variants: in height, inclination and offset. We supply these with an ABE licence.
LEVERGUARDS
These originally come from Moto GP and are used as brake lever guards. Today, they are also used in public road traffic as additional protection for brake and clutch levers.
BLOOKING CIRCLE
In the case of brake discs, the diameter and number of threaded holes through which the tyre is mounted with the rim on the wheel hub is determined by the bolt circle
MONTAGE INSTRUCTIONS
You can find mounting instructions for convenient download as a pdf in our download area, here.
ORGANIC BRAKE PADS
Organic brake pads consist of a special mix of materials with a high proportion of organic substances (abrasives, fillers, binders, lubricants, reinforcing fibres, etc.) and are mainly used for cast discs.
PR NUMBERS OF THE VAG GROUP
Most car manufacturers have specified their brake components according to type code numbers. Models from the VAG Group (Audi, VW, Seat, Skoda, etc.) are also labelled with three-digit PR numbers (primary characteristic).
These PR numbers indicate which components or equipment variants are installed in your vehicle.
The PR numbers of your vehicle can be found in various places, for example in the boot or in the spare wheel well in your vehicle, on the customer service data carrier or in the service booklet.
On the PR number list you will find, among other things, the vehicle ID number, the vehicle type and under the item „Additional equipment/options“ the PR numbers. When searching for the PR numbers for the brakes, you can narrow down the following PR number ranges:
Brake components front axle: 1L_ and 1Z_
Brake components rear axle: 1K_ and 2E_
Only with the above codes can we determine the brake system of your vehicle and supply you with the correct steel flex brake lines.
Radial brakes
With radial brakes, the brake calliper is not mounted axially as usual, but radially. However, as with disc brakes, it also acts axially. As the distance between the brake calliper and axle can be varied here, radial brakes can be used with brake discs of different sizes.
WHEEL SENSOR
The wheel sensors electronically determine the data across the entire range of movement of a vehicle, which is sent to the ABS (anti-lock braking system) or ESP (electronic stabilisation programme), for example. Other safety and comfort systems, such as the automatic handbrake, are also supplied with this data.
RETOUR / WIDERRUF
Consumers have a right of cancellation, whereby a consumer is any natural person who concludes a legal transaction for purposes that can predominantly be attributed neither to their commercial nor their independent professional activity. Further information on cancellation can be found here.
REVO
REVOlution
Individually adjustable for every rider and every riding style, for maximum control and unconditional riding fun! Whether cafe racer, dragster or club style - with the completely CNC-milled and extremely lightweight clip-on handlebars, you can always decide for yourself which riding style and which look you want your bike to have.
- TÜV tested and with parts certificate
- Outer steering tube diameter 1" (25.4 mm) with inner diameter 12 mm and cut-out for Harley fittings
- Strong look and safety thanks to triple clamping with 44 mm height
- Laser scaling for symmetrical and correct adjustment in all positions
- For fork diameters from 39 mm to 55 mm
Due to its design, the clip-on handlebar can and may not only be mounted under the upper triple clamp, but also above the triple clamp to achieve even more comfort.
The probrake “REVO“ clip-on handlebars are supplied model-specific, with universal fitting instructions and TÜV approval for your motorbike. Standpipe clamps, bracket
and steering tube are black anodised, laser-scaled and supplied as a complete kit.
Attention - depending on vehicle type and conversion, further modifications may be required
ROCK (ROCK SERIES)
“ROCK-SERIES“ - PROBRAKE MEETS HEAVY METAL!
With the “ROCK“ product line, probrake presents selected items and parts specially developed
for Harley models. Whether levers, brake discs, handlebars or custom parts - the “ROCK-Series“ stands for the highest quality & performance.
FAST COUPLING
Mainly used in racing or sidecar applications. With a quick coupling, the brake system can be easily disconnected and reconnected without having to bleed it again.
SIDE POINT
The thermal energy generated by the braking process in the pipework system is absorbed by the brake fluid. If the boiling point is reached, vapour bubbles can form in the lines, causing the brake pressure to drop.
The „dry boiling point“ (new, airtight and moisture-free brake fluid) is approx. 280° Celsius. The greater the moisture in the brake fluid, the lower the boiling point. From a moisture content of approx. 3.5 %, we speak of a „wet boiling point“. The standard for wet dry boiling points and the viscosity of brake fluids is defined by the United States Department of Transportation, or DOT for short. (see DOT)
SINTERMETAL
Sintered metals are pressed together from metal powders under heat and high pressure. We recommend sintered metal brake pads on our probrake brake discs.
Predetermined breaking point
The predetermined breaking points on the levers prevent them from breaking off completely, allowing you to continue riding after a slip. Our lever model „TECTOR“ also has a folding function.
SPEEDBLEEDER
These are used to simplify bleeding of the brake system and are usually screwed directly into the brake calliper.
STAHLFLEX
The TEFLON® inner core of probrake steel flex lines is coated with an extremely robust steel mesh. This prevents the lines from expanding, even at high temperatures and under extreme loads. Conventional rubber brake lines suffer from everyday weather influences (heat, cold, moisture, UV radiation), which can cause them to become porous and expand. They lose their effectiveness and must be replaced every four years according to the manufacturer.
STUMMING LOWERER
Our clip-on handlebars are mounted directly on the uprights. Variable adjustment options enable a customised and comfortable posture.
DURP PADS
The highly abrasion-resistant nylon pads protect the frame, engine and fairing parts. In the event of a „fall“, the attachable shock absorber caps additionally absorb up to 1300 newtons. In the event of a minor fall or light crash, the actual crash pad remains undamaged and everything is fine again when the shock absorber cap is replaced. The aluminium support elements are milled from a solid piece, giving the parts significantly greater stability and quality.
Parts and components
The parts certificate is usually issued for components on vehicles that are retrofitted (does not apply if an ABE is available). A vehicle part with a parts certificate must always be checked by a test centre after installation.
UFO
Lens seals, also known as UFOs, are used between original lines from the vehicle manufacturer (including steel tubes) and our Probrake distributor. The lens seal can be installed on both sides.
PROBRAKE
The loss of material on surfaces due to stress is also known as abrasion or wear. Wear occurs on brake pads and brake discs and is a natural ageing process. Abrasion is caused by friction and is noticeable as brake dust. In general, wear occurs on the brake discs and pads, meaning that they need to be replaced at regular intervals.
DISTRIBUTORS
Distributors are used in the brake system to extend or split the brake lines. There are a variety of distributor types as well as special distributors for ABS systems.
DELAYER
Braking deceleration is also known as negative acceleration. Deceleration is used to express how much a vehicle is slowed down.
HEAT TREATMENT
Metals can be hardened through heat treatment. Brake discs are optimised with a special heat treatment so that they are more resistant to heat. As a rule, cold brake discs are heated again after production to such an extent that they begin to glow shortly before the melting point. These heated brake discs are then allowed to cool down again. This compacts the structure of the metal, which in turn leads to better thermal conductivity.
RETURN / RETOURN
Consumers have a right of cancellation, whereby a consumer is any natural person who enters into a legal transaction for purposes that are predominantly outside their trade, business or profession. Further information on cancellation can be found here.
CERTIFICATION
DECLARATION (GENERAL OPERATING PERMISSION)
Products with an ABE supplied are generally registration-free! It is sufficient to carry the ABE booklet with you for any inspections and for the main inspection.
Exceptions: Vehicles that were placed on the market with an EBE, vehicles that are not in series production* or combinations of product and vehicle that are not listed in the ABE are subject to registration**. For details, special requirements and instructions, please refer directly to the ABE.
*Standard condition: The legal standard condition is given if products that are dependent on the installed product are in their original condition. Example: An accessory handlebar with ABE is installed and an accessory licence plate holder. As there is no dependency here, the standard condition is given and the handlebar is registration-free. Another example: A handlebar riser from a manufacturer „A“ with ABE and a handlebar from a manufacturer „B“ with ABE are installed. Although both components have an ABE, they are dependent on each other. This means that there is no „standard condition“ and both components are subject to registration.
**If an ABE is available, but the component is subject to registration (= modification approval), the ABE is used as the basis for testing. The costs of the modification approval are usually the same as if a parts certificate for this component were available (usually a modification approval according to StVZO § 19 para. 3 is carried out here).
PREPARATION. IS DELIVERED WITH MANUFACTURER'S DECLARATION
If an ABE is in preparation, the product is subject to registration (= modification approval) until the time of approval of the ABE supplement containing the product and vehicle. The ABE is used as a test basis for the modification approval. A manufacturer's declaration (confirmation from the manufacturer that a product is suitable for a vehicle) facilitates the work of the technical service (e.g. TÜV). The costs of registration are usually about the same as if a parts certificate for this component were available (in most cases, a modification approval is carried out in accordance with StVZO § 19 Para. 3).
COURTS FOR TÜV REGISTRATION / TECHNICAL COURT
Products that are supplied with a parts certificate are subject to registration (modification approval). As a rule, the installation or fitting of parts is carried out in accordance with § 19 Para. 3 No. 4 StVZO. The cost of this modification approval is usually relatively low.
Products that are supplied with a technical report are generally subject to registration (modification approval). The modification approval is generally more complex than with a parts certificate, as an assessment of the vehicle in accordance with § 19 (2) i.V.m. § 21 StVZO must take place. The costs are usually calculated on the basis of working hours and vary depending on the technical service (e.g. TÜV). It is often worth comparing the testing organisations.
All information described here is written for vehicles with German registration and is aimed at end users in simplified form. For details and information, please refer to each expert opinion/approval certificate and the StVZO. Subject to errors and changes. Different regulations may apply in other countries, which are not listed here.
DUAL-CIRCUIT BRAKE SYSTEM
The dual-circuit braking system has been the mandatory braking system for cars in Germany for safety reasons since 1967. This involves two brake systems with two independent line systems. If one brake circuit fails, the vehicle can still be braked using the service brake.