I have recently bought a bike with a coaster brake. After over 50 years of cycling with brakes on both handlebars I am finding it difficult. Is it possible to change a coaster brake for a conventional back brake on the handlebar?
Noreen
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1More practical is to add rim brakes (assuming the frame and rims are reasonably compatible). No need to disable the coaster brake.– Daniel R HicksCommented Nov 30, 2020 at 15:51
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Do you want to just add a handbrake, or disable the coaster brake as well ?– Criggie ♦Commented Nov 30, 2020 at 18:38
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1Embrace the coaster brake. They are fun. Lay down some mad-skidddz.– whatsisnameCommented Nov 30, 2020 at 19:58
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1@DanielRHicks “no need to disable the coaster brake” – well, except to get rid of that horrible back-ratcheting preventer!– leftaroundaboutCommented Dec 1, 2020 at 0:28
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1 Answer
You can’t actuate a coaster brake with a brake leaver/cable, if that’s what you are asking.
You’ll have to install a normal, hand actuated brake and brake lever.
Apart from coaster brakes there are generally two types of brakes: Rim brakes and disc brakes. For rim brakes your frame will need rim brake mounting points and your wheel needs a rim with braking surface. For disc brakes you need a frame with disc brake mounting points and your wheel needs a disc brake hub.
For brakes with cables (i.e. not hydraulic), cable stops welded to the frame would be nice but a continuous cable housing works as well.
It’s quite likely your frame has mounting points for rim brakes. If you are lucky your wheel also has a rim with braking surfaces.
