I have a 2015 Ultra Limited - Love the bike. Have a friend that got a new 2017 RG Ultra - He was telling me about the NEW brakes / I said Ya, Linked.. He said he was told that the NEW front brakes ONLY use one side (one pad) Unless you Really lay on the brakes? Whats he smoking? Or am I missing something here on the 2017 brake systems?

 

My understanding is that the front only applies 1 side when the linked system is utilized. Under normal braking, using both hand and foot, both front calipers are being used

 

This!

If you only apply the rear (foot operated brake), the "linked system" will apply some front brake for you using only the left front caliper.

The 2017 isn't any different than the 2015 in this regard.

Page 83 of the 2015 Touring owners manual.

 

Yep ,same as the 15.When You replace front brakes You will notice left pad wears first.

 

I did think both were the same, he was told ONLY on the 17?

Thanks,

 

Let me guess... a salesperson told him that? Big surprise!

 

Bingo - That is Why the 17's were Better than earlier years, LOL

 

that part of the braking system is the same.

However there are some differences to the braking system on the 17 I think it's got bigger internal Pistons maybe in the ABS something IS improved on the 17. I think the braking system on the 17 is the most underrated part on the 17. Honestly it's really the best thing I liked about 17 was breaking it's definitely improved. I just do not remember the exact details.

 

If you use the front brake lever, both front disc calipers are applied, single with foot lever.

 

He's on "salesman hype" and/or new bike ego trip, trying to justify how much money he just spent. Most notable chassis changes on the '17s is getting rid of the air shocks & dual bending valve front suspension.