Longer brake and clutch levers

[pingxs]

Does anyone know of a Gen4 lever manufacturer that markets longer levers?
I don't know if it's just me, but I feel they are a bit short.

[jamieklb]

This is something I’m keeping an eye on but I’m looking for shorter ones. Not found anything yet.

[sirsidneyrd]

Strangely it’s generally shorter levers that appear - if it’s a question of reach quite a few companies do cranked levers

[dirtyduck]

Agree longer levers would nice, I can only get three fingers on mine and I don't have particularly large hands.

Really like the engagement adjusters though, wouldn't want to give those up.

[Dave354]

 It seen the gen 4 levers, but I guess they listened to customers and made the levers different to improve feel?

[pingxs]

I love this Gen4 bike, but it is curious how manufacturers like BMW or KTM use to equip quite long levers. In my opinion as a former user of both brands, the long BMW levers provide a good dose of comfort and feeling.
What is shocking is to have a wide handlebar, wide grips... and a medium length levers... For the brake control I use 2 fingers... for the clutch I will have to get used to using 2 instead of 3  !

[Meese]

I'm also using three fingers on the stock medium levers, and looking for good quality 2-finger shorty levers.

[Mumm-Ra]

What is purpose of longer levers? Generally schools advise best technique is to use fewer fingers (1-2 front brake, 2 on clutch)

[Nungers]

Originally Posted by Mumm-Ra

What is purpose of longer levers? Generally schools advise best technique is to use fewer fingers (1-2 front brake, 2 on clutch)

Was wondering the same thing myself. I have even cut the end balls off my dirt bike to make them a little shorter

[Will Morgan]

The reasons for longer levers are 1) when you REALLY need to exert maximum braking force its best to have room for all your fingers, and 2) its simple physics that a longer lever gives more powerful leverage = more braking force.
With a shorter lever you're using fewer fingers so have a weaker grip, AND less mechanical leverage so potentially maximum braking is compromised.
Of course this only is relevant in extreme braking situations which many riders will never encounter but that manufacturers still have to take into account.

As for cutting balls off levers.....I think in a lot of competition classes ball end levers were made compulsory after decades of stab wounds being one the commonest injuries requiring the attention of on-course paramedics. And I think in UK & EU all bikes (road  & off-road) made after a certain year are required to have them.