Katana Owners Club U.K.

Hi recently I had my shoulder completely replaced, unfortunately the op caused some nerve damage in my arm. Result is that my right hand is weaker and operating the front brake feels less than comfortable when hurtling into the corners. Add to that 1985 brakes and I started to wonder if anybody has looked at upgrading the front callipers and getting some newer ones that fit directly into existing holes in forks. Would prefer to keep original size discs just to make whole thing easier. But if some one has done this and would kindly send list of all parts and where to get any special bits, then I would happily go down that route. I have two 1985 pop up Katanas which I love riding and enough bits go allow me to be in the process of making a a Katana pop up cafe racer with a modified frame, souped up engine, upgraded front and rear suspension. For the more extreme days out on the bike.

You could try an adjustable ratio master cylinder. AP Lockheed or HEL if you want something a bit modern looking.

This bike on ebay has upgraded brakes:

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/164822236976?ul_noapp=true

Does anyone recognise where the front calipers come from? I spoke to the seller and he said he didn't fit them, but they fit directly to the standard forks with just spacers added.

If you measure the mounting hole centres and ring a breaker with that info, I am sure they could tell you what they have that might work.

I tried all that and Honda VFR Nissins came the closest but no cigar.
PreTech made callipers that fit the GS wheels/discs but are no longer in business.

After some online research it looks like the calipers are late 90s Bandit 1200 or GSXR1100, but the bolt hole spacing on the forks are 90mm. Mine are 70mm, so it looks like the upper fork mount has been cut and re-welded.

You could start with some braided hoses while you’re searching for calipers.
I have them on mine and they made a noticeable difference.... brakes are still shit compared to the new bike though