WP, established as a leader in motorcycle suspension technology through OEM partnerships with KTM and other premium brands, has entered the braking systems market with the launch of WP Braking Systems. The new division will introduce 19 components engineered to deliver race-derived braking performance across multiple motorcycle segments.
Highlights
- New four-piston radial caliper weighs 740 grams, positioning it among the lightest units currently available
- Vertically integrated 6,000-square-meter facility capable of producing 300,000 brake systems and 1.5 million hoses annually
- Development team comprises 11 specialists, each with more than 20 years of brake engineering experience
- Braided PTFE hoses rated to 40 bar will be included as OEM equipment
Development and Manufacturing Infrastructure
WP’s braking division operates from a production-ready facility featuring complete vertical integration. Manufacturing capabilities include hose braiding, extrusion, machining, and assembly, alongside a dedicated 100-meter anodizing line for surface treatments and cosmetic finishes.
The engineering team specializes in CAD design, supplier development, and full validation processes. Testing and prototyping facilities support the complete development cycle from concept through production.
Four-Piston Front Radial Caliper Specifications
The flagship component is a four-piston front radial caliper featuring:
- Weight: 740 grams
- Construction: Die-cast aluminum body with central bridge structure
- Pistons: Hard-anodized coated aluminum
- Seals: EPDM square and dust seals
- Pad compatibility: Sintered or organic compounds
- Application: Compatible with spoked wheel configurations due to optimized body width
The central bridge design prioritizes stiffness while maintaining a compact profile. This caliper stack-up optimization enables compatibility with applications previously limited to conventional mounting systems.
Radial Master Cylinder and Rear Caliper Development
A new radial master cylinder targets smaller displacement motorcycles, extending race-level technology to additional market segments. The accompanying rear floating calipers incorporate open-bridge cooling architecture, oversized brake pads, and service-oriented designs intended to simplify maintenance procedures.
Braided Hose Technology
WP braking systems incorporate braided hoses utilizing polytetrafluoroethylene construction rated for pressures up to 40 bar. This specification provides consistent brake feel and improved responsiveness compared to conventional rubber hose configurations.
Performance Engineering Focus
Development priorities centered on weight reduction, thermal management, and drag torque minimization. Engineers designed components to deliver performance characteristics typically associated with larger displacement motorcycles to smaller engine classes while optimizing fuel efficiency and extending pad service life.
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