Coaster brakes enough?

Definitely not. You're unsafe, in my opinion, if you risk it.

Do a test -- get up to 30mph, and simulate a panic stop: lock up your coaster brake and see how long it takes to stop. I assure you the distance is unacceptable.

Add a front brake, and you'll increase your safety immensely.

I have a caliper style brake. Don 't like the looks or the (lack of) effectiveness. I'll be taking my bike down to the shop or a drum brake install on Saturday...if it doesn't snow again. :-/

I think a drum brake might suit the barebones look you're after. Give it a look.

Brenton

I used my MB with only coaster brakes for years and thousands of miles...But I would recommend using front brakes; its so much safer!

I you're going to put an engine on it then yes, you need additional braking. I got my last 4 parts donor bikes at Goodwill. $7 apiece. 2 had usable caliper brakes. 2 had usable MTB suspension forks with braze-ons and V brakes front and rear.

If you don't want to swap forks, most cruiser forks have a hole at the bottom of the steerer for caliper brakes and/or fender. Most also have a brake bridge at the top of the seat stay for mounting a fender and/or caliper brakes.

I would definitely put additional brakes on it. I would add front calipers, at the very least. Coaster brakes are not dependable enough on their own for the speeds of a motorized bike.

Ted

I'll agree with Calgary, a front drum brake might help with that barebones look...you'll still need a brake lever for it though.

I'm using one of these on my first build. ( Pics to come )


Bikeman: Sturmey Archer X-FD Front Drum Hub 36 hole



I found it cheaper somewhere else. $44.00 I think. But it was out of stock so I ordered it from bikeman. Good luck.

Ride safe.

Heres a link for a HD spoked steel rim sturmy drum $79 + $35 s&h (mine comes tomorrow)

26" FRONT WHEEL WITH DRUM BRAKE HUB: Husky Bicycles