Hand Brake Master Sizing Explained

[SIC Nate]

When talking about the 'feel' of the brake system, the key to the whole issue is the master cylinder piston size. Smaller will give higher psi at the calipers, but will have more lever travel. Same size will do the same psi. Larger will have less psi at the calipers with less lever travel, so to get equal power you have to squeeze harder.

The lever ratio will play a factor too. The length of the lever from the pivot to the plunger rod as compared to the length of the lever where it is gripped will make a difference too.