Anyway to replace this thing with something less intrusive? I mean... its a long shot.. but whats it hurt to ask?

 

Someone should be fired for that design. Doesn't work with the rail accessories at all

 

Search CountrymanTalk for "handbrake" and you'll find lots of discussions...

 

aftermarket opportunity!

 

Have at it!

 

http://www.motoringwerks.com/p-1808-...ke-handle.aspx

It says it fits the R60. Not so sure.

 

I bet that motorwerks handle fits sideways like the original

 

From that exploded view it looks like a straight handle is possible? It's not easy to find wrecked mini's around here to attempt swapping.

 

From the drawing it looks like an alternative arrangement could be set up...a "normal" handle with latching and release for parking, combined with a more accessible handle (WRC style) that would not latch but one could use for handbrake turns? The latching handle would override, and it wouldn't have to be bent.

 

It would be great if this worked... i hope someone is brave and skilled enough to try it.

 

It seems to me that the part that they indicate fits the Countryman, is the Whalen Shift Machine...also advertised on that same web page. http://www.motoringwerks.com/p-1808-...ke-handle.aspx

"Whalen Shift Machine
The Stainless Steel, Brushed, Contoured Handle (left side of the photo) was designed to be the perfect complement for our matching Brushed Stainless Shift ****. If you are using one of these superb shift ***** on your BMW or MINI you will like the look with the complete the set with this handle."

 

Very interesting alternative...but I don't see how it can work on the R60 after staring at the drawing and then at the car.
Hmmmm....

 

The text on that web page is a wee bit perplexing ...handbrake, shift ****, left side of photo, fits a Countryman....

If anyone sorts it out, and finds a viable alternative to the stock handbrake, let me know.

 

All to often, people who post stuff for sale just roll-in the R60 to the list of models on which their product fits. Just go to the For Sale stuff on NAM and cheek out how many four-bolt wheels are advertised to fit the R60!

No doubt Whalen makes terrific products; I'm a customer for my 2004 MCS. However, I believe the fitment guide for the shift machine (which does fit the R60) was mistakenly cut and pasted into the handbrake handle info. The mechanics of the R60 handle have the release button actuating a lever that runs from the handle-end of the handbrake arm to its pivot point at the base. Theoretically this lever then disengages a toothed "stop" to allow the handbrake arm to pivot downward. Thus, the mechanics (and the 90º angle) are most likely not compatible with a plunger-type actuator.

Those interested in this item should call Whalen to verify compatibility with the R60.

FWIW,

 

One provided link points to a CravenSpeed handbrake product offered through MotoringWerks, part number CRMC-0059.

Tarin Shalow of CravenSpeed reports:
"You are correct, the Countryman handbrake is too different from other MINIs, our hand brake handle is not compatible."

Still looking...

 

Anyone know if the 2012 CM handbrake works like the 2006? If so, these guys might work. They also have a matching weighted shift **** like TMW/Whalen (2" diameter, SS) with two options for color. I'm thinking about buying both to save on shipping; but am hesitant until I can be more certain of the handbrake fitment.

http://www.storm-motorwerks.com/USA/...ke_handles_v1/

 

The pic on that website is at least a 2007.

I'm not totally sure how the handle attaches on the CM hand brake, but I doubt that would work.

 

RealOEM is your friend! I think there is absolutely no way the two would be compatible.

R56 Handbrake:




R60 Handbrake:

 

Thanks for the suggestion. Maybe I can reference that site when asking Storm Motorwerks to make a shift **** that would work.

 

I rather like the hand brake set up. I think it compliments the usefulness of the center rail and arm rest perfectly.

Sealy - Who wishes there was some way to block more of the switches when he uses the cup holder.