In the past B&F Specialties has
offered “Electric” brakes for our trailers. Some time ago, Dexter, the
manufacturer of the brake units, issued an “Alert Letter” stating they do
not recommend using brakes on a trailer pulled behind a motorcycle, with
their brake systems. This is due to the fact that their lightest
assembly is for 2000# trailers and motorcycle campers are considerably
less than that weight, thus having too much braking power for the weight
of the trailer. Since they were the only manufacturer who offered
electric brakes, and would not assume any liability with respect to
their brakes behind a motorcycle, a problem had arisen. Since they, the
axle manufacturer, and therefore B&F Specialties would no longer assume
liability for those systems behind a motorcycle, we, B&F Specialties,
have chosen to use an alternative system. We have tested and used this
new system with the safety of our customers in mind.
The “new” brake system we are using is an ELECTRIC/HYDRAULIC DISC BRAKE
SYSTEM, NOT an electric or a hydraulic surge system. We feel this is
also a more positive system, no magnets to replace, and a system that
has worked for years in other auto and trailer systems. The system
consists of hydraulic brake units such as those on a auto, and a
hydraulic pump mounted in the rear of the trailer. The brakes being
applied on the motorcycle activate the unit. A pressure-regulated pump
with a valve, that is adjustable, controls the amount of brake applied.
Simply load your trailer as always, adjust the pressure, and you’re
ready to go. Assuming that you regularly load your trailer the same, no
further adjustments should be necessary, if however, you feel that your
load is significantly lower or higher, simply adjust very slightly to
apply more or less pressure to the brakes. We understand this system is
costly, but you should and must understand, that it is more reliable,
positive, and a safer system for behind a motorcycle. This system is
designed to stop the trailer from pushing the motorcycle, not to stop
the trailer or bike/trailer combination.
If you should have any questions please feel free to call us and we will
be happy to answer any further questions you may have.
