Loss of rear brake - 83 650GL

[kerrfunk]

I was riding yesterday and I noticed my rear brake suddenly felt very firm, like I had to press it a lot to feel any action.
When I got back into my garage, I notice that the brakelight does not activate when I press the rear brake, although it does with the front brake.

I'm guessing two things here:
One, that it's probably something simple and easy to diagnose and
Two, I might possibly be able to handle it myself (with the guidance of GSR naturally).

So. What now?

[dorkburger]

Not sure of the exact layout of your L, but the shaft that the brake pedal connects to may be tight where it passes thru its bushing and in need of a disassembly, cleaning and lubrication. Since you didn't mention the brake being stuck on / dragging, I'm thinking that the master cylinder is ok. once proper movement is restored the brake light may work.

[Steve]

First, make sure there is nothing wedged between the lever and the frame that will prevent its movement. Then do as Glen suggested. Remove the brake lever from it's pivot, then remove the clip and pin on the inside of the pivot that are on the end of the rod that pushes on the master cylinder. Be sure to remove the spring that pulls on the brake switch, then pull the arm out of the frame. Clean off all the rusty grease, then apply some fresh grease to ensure it's good for another 35 years. Re-assembly is the reverse of removal.

.