AS3 Performance Forged Brake Lever
MSRP: $45.00
$36.00
Exact Fitment Guarantee
The AS3 Performance Forged Front Brake Lever is a high-strength replacement brake control component engineered to deliver outstanding reliability, precise hydraulic modulation, and superior crash resistance compared to brittle cast aluminum OEM levers. Standard cast levers possess internal porosity that causes catastrophic fracturing during low-speed washouts or roost impacts. AS3 Performance eliminates this vulnerability by forging the lever blade from high-density 6061-T6 aluminum alloy before CNC finish-machining, aligning the grain structure of the metal to provide immense tensile strength and elastic resilience.
Finished with a high-durability anodized coating and laser-etched AS3 Performance branding, the lever resists wear from abrasive dirt, sweat, and brake fluid contact. The lever profile is carefully radiused along the finger contact zone, distributing braking pressure evenly across index and middle fingers to eliminate pressure hotspots during aggressive braking sequences into tight corners. The lever incorporates an adjustable reach set-screw with a locking nut, allowing riders to position the lever bite point precisely where their hand mechanics operate with peak leverage.
- Manufacturing Process: High-pressure hot forged 6061-T6 aluminum blade with CNC pivot junction
- Finish: Anodized protective treatment in factory-matched colorways
- Reach Adjustment: Threaded stainless steel set screw with locking hex nut
- Master Cylinder Interface: Precision-machined pushrod pocket with return spring alignment
- Weight: 95 grams (optimized strength-to-weight balance)
### Step-by-Step Installation & Safety Protocols Installation is straightforward. Using an 8mm or 10mm wrench, remove the pivot bolt and locknut from the front brake master cylinder perch. Slide out the stock lever, taking care not to dislodge the master cylinder pushrod, rubber dust boot, or return spring. Clean the perch saddle and apply a light dab of waterproof grease to the pivot sleeve and pushrod contact pocket. Position the AS3 Performance lever, slide the pivot bolt through, and secure the lower locknut to 5-7 Nm. Check that the brake light switch (if equipped) and master cylinder piston activate smoothly without dragging. Test brake lever feel and verify that the front wheel spins freely when the lever is released.
### Maintenance & Safety Checks Maintenance involves periodically inspecting the pivot bolt for play, cleaning the pushrod contact pocket of road grime, and ensuring the reach adjustment screw remains locked tightly in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is a forged brake lever better than a standard cast lever?
A: Forging compresses the aluminum alloy under extreme pressure, eliminating microscopic air pockets and creating a continuous grain flow. This makes the AS3 lever significantly more resistant to snapping, often allowing it to bend slightly during a crash rather than breaking off completely.
Q: Can I adjust how close the brake lever sits to the grip?
A: Yes. An adjustable stainless steel reach screw allows you to set the resting position of the lever blade closer to or farther from the grip, tailoring the initial engagement point to your preference.
Q: Does this lever require bleeding the brake system to install?
A: No. Installing the lever is purely mechanical on the exterior pivot perch and does not require opening or bleeding the hydraulic brake fluid circuit.
Q: What should I do if the lever bends in a hard crash?
A: Because the forged alloy is ductile, minor bends can often be carefully straightened once in a vise; however, if the metal shows stress whitening or cracking, replace the lever immediately.