In the ever-changing world of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, the Motor Company upgraded the braking system across the Touring line starting in 2023.5 and has now fully integrated new rotors and calipers. In this blog, we explain the difference between the older models and the new line, how to fit custom rotors and calipers, and the supporting parts!
In the 2023.5 model year, HDMC went to a 12.6” rotor (320mm) on all CVO/ST models. These come equipped with radial 100mm Brembo calipers using 8102 brake pads with a hub-mounted rotor design for the front braking equipment. The rear rotors on 2023.5 and newer models have stayed with the legacy 11.8” x 7mm rotor design and legacy caliper 7254 brake pads. On 2024 base models (non-CVO), the 12.6” (320mm) rotor was introduced as a spoke-mounted rotor, available as Part #6-630, 6-631, and 6-632. for non-CVO Touring models with the use of the legacy front calipers using 7254 brake pads. This new rotor posed a challenge for the aftermarket rotor segment that we immediately recognized and focused on for our customer base. With the introduction of our OEM fitment for the non-CVO models, first on the market we boasted our lifetime warranty against warpage and the full line of finishes (Machine Finish, Black, and Gold).
Important notes for fitment: The hub-mounted 12.6” rotors on CVO/ST models are offered by us as an upgraded size to 13” and include 5mm spacers for your caliper bolts. This moves the caliper further away from the axle. This is made possible by HDMC’s use of a radial-mounted caliper, which we strongly commend the Motor Company for moving to a superior caliper design. Lyndall Brakes offers a full line of 13” hub-mounted rotors with our patented Full Floating Lug Drive Technology™ in all designs, friction area patterns, and colorways. For the spoke-mounted 12.6” rotor options, we offer OEM fitment, plug-and-play, and hardware kits for direct fitment as well.
Customizing braking equipment on 2023.5 and newer models: The CVO/ST models will accept a larger rotor without the need to change calipers or the caliper mounting system. The spoke-mounted non-CVO models require modifications in many cases, other than OEM fitment.
Scenario 1: “I want to put radial Brembo calipers on my 2024 non-CVO Touring model.”
Answer: This can be achieved by using 11.5” TTi radial caliper mounts using our T27211RA and T27211BL as well as any 108mm caliper. Lyndall Brakes recommends Brembo M4 Monobloc radial calipers. 11.5” radial brackets are used because the cast caliper mounts on the fork lowers are in a different position versus the 2023 and earlier non-CVO models. This will keep the caliper in the same location, but convert it to radial instead of axial mounting.
Scenario 2: “I want to put your wheels on my 2024 non-CVO.”
Answer: We have two different paths for this. Option 1: We offer an OEM fitment front hub for the 12.6” spoke-mounted rotor. This is the most affordable option and keeps your calipers in the OEM position. Option 2: A traditional hub-mount rotor option that will need a radial caliper and mounts as referenced in Scenario 1, along with the use of caliper spacers. This is the more performance-oriented option and also allows you to have rotors matching your wheel design. You’ll also be upgrading to a 13” rotor. For help with this option, please contact us directly.
Lyndall Brakes is more than a brake company, we are product and fitment specialists. When ordering our products, you have technical support for the lifetime of your purchase. Please don’t hesitate to contact us to ensure you're getting the best products for your needs. We take pride in supporting our customers and dealers beyond the purchase. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for tech tips, new product info, and event news for the years to come!