TCB Brake Systems

TCB Brake Systems is a small aftermarket supply business based around a single product - a US$90 replacement banjo bolt that slots straight into the brake systems of just about any motorcycle motorcycle in about 10 minutes. But why so expensive?

Each bolt contains a hollowed-out oversized head, which is sealed off from the hydraulic brake system by a strong and slightly flexible membrane. The theory goes that under high-pressure braking, such as in an emergency stop, brake pads tend to start to lock a wheel up when they grab onto tiny surface irregularities on the disc, sending pressure spikes through the hydraulic system.

The TCB bolt's hollow head contains about a cubic centimetre of air - which is compressible, where brake fluid is not - and the membrane, while not susceptible to flexing under normal braking pressures, has a little give in it at the outside edge of brake pressure, so that when those disc irregularities start sending pressure waves up through the brake system, there's something flexible in the system that's able to even them out.

So, according to TCB inventor Mark Lipski, the unit should prevent many front wheel lock-ups before they even start.

Source: gizmag.comAdded: 18 September 2008