Need help adjusting my Honda Shadow brake pedal position

I’m struggling with this one guys. The brake pedal on my Honda Shadow is either too high or too low, and it’s throwing off my entire riding experience. It’s not just uncomfortable; it feels unsafe. Has anyone else had this problem and figured out how to fix it?

Response

Oh I know how frustrating this can be. On my Shadow, I had to play around with the stop bolt and brake rod adjustments. It’s a bit of a process, but it’s worth it for the comfort and safety.

Solutions That Worked for Riders

Solution	Users Who Found Success	Approx. Cost (USD)	Time Needed (Minutes)
Adjusting the Stop Bolt and Brake Rod	3	$0 (DIY)	30-45
Re-indexing the Lever on the Rear Drum Cover	2	$0 (DIY)	20-30
Replacing Incorrect Adjustment Screw	1	$5 – $10	15-20

Symptoms

• Difficulty reaching or comfortably pressing the brake pedal.
• Brake pedal height inconsistency.
• Awkward riding posture due to pedal position.

Possible Causes

• Misadjusted brake pedal.
• Worn or incorrect adjustment screws.
• Changes in bike setup affecting the brake system.

Solutions with steps

Adjusting the Stop Bolt and Brake Rod

• What I Did: Fine-tuned the stop bolt near the pedal and the brake rod at the rear wheel.
• Outcome: Achieved the perfect pedal position for a comfortable and safe ride.
• Personal Experience: This adjustment transformed my riding experience.
• Estimated Cost: $0 (DIY)
• Time Needed: 30-45 minutes
• Detailed Steps:
  1. Locate the Adjustments: Find the stop bolt near the brake pedal and the brake rod at the rear wheel.
  2. Adjust the Stop Bolt: Turn the stop bolt to raise or lower the pedal height. Do this incrementally, checking the pedal feel after each adjustment.
  3. Fine-Tune the Brake Rod: Adjust the brake rod to manage slack or tension. This might require several small adjustments.
  4. Test and Re-adjust: Test the brake pedal after each adjustment. Aim for a position where your foot rests naturally and can easily apply pressure.
  5. Secure Everything: Once satisfied, ensure all nuts and bolts are tightened to avoid any slippage.
• Handy Tips:
  • Use a marker to indicate your starting position on the adjustments, so you can always revert back if needed.
  • Lubricate the threads of the stop bolt for smoother adjustments.
• Expert Insight: Regularly check these adjustments, as vibrations from riding can cause them to shift over time.

Re-indexing the Lever on the Rear Drum Cover

• What I Did: Adjusted the position of the lever on the rear drum for optimal pedal alignment.
• Outcome: Improved pedal accessibility and comfort.
• Personal Experience: A straightforward yet effective tweak.
• Estimated Cost: $0 (DIY)
• Time Needed: 20-30 minutes
• Detailed Steps:
  1. Access the Lever: Locate the lever on the rear drum cover. This might require removing some parts for better access.
  2. Re-index the Lever: Adjust its position to align better with the brake pedal. This might require loosening and then retightening.
  3. Test the Adjustment: Check the brake pedal’s feel and make sure the adjustment has improved the position.
  4. Ensure Stability: Double-check that the lever is secure and won’t shift during rides.
• Handy Tips:
  • Take photos before you start, so you have a reference for the original position.
  • Be gentle when re-indexing to avoid bending or damaging the lever.
• Expert Insight: Familiarize yourself with the brake system layout in your bike’s manual to avoid any mishaps.

Replacing Incorrect Adjustment Screw

• What I Did: Swapped out an ill-fitting screw with the correct M6X20 bolt and nut.
• Outcome: Restored proper functionality to the brake pedal height adjustment.
• Personal Experience: A simple yet crucial fix.
• Estimated Cost: $5 – $10
• Time Needed: 15-20 minutes
• Detailed Steps:
  1. Identify the Correct Screw: Confirm the size and type needed (M6X20 for a 2008 Shadow Spirit 750).
  2. Remove the Old Screw: Carefully take out the incorrect screw, being mindful not to strip the threads.
  3. Install the New Screw: Place the correct screw and adjust the pedal to your preferred height.
  4. Test the Adjustment: Ensure the brake pedal is at a comfortable height and the brake engages correctly.
• Handy Tips:
  • Keep a set of various screws and bolts handy for such adjustments.
  • If unsure about the size, consult a local hardware store with your bike’s model and year.
• Expert Insight: Regularly inspect the brake pedal mechanism for wear and tear, especially if you often ride in harsh conditions.

Motorcycle Models Where This Worked:

• Various models and years of Honda Shadow, including Shadow Spirit 750 and VT1100C.