MrDave

Does anyone know if a smaller compatible emergency brake handle exists? It's an isor.

Japan8

Try AutoExe... they have a matching shift **** and steering wheel...

RX8_GT

Hopefully the aftermarket people are listening. The original is unique 0 but an eye-sore and functioally poor. It is near impossible to tll if it's engaged by looking at it. A simple lay-down flat one would be great. John

AF-RX8

I really like the look and feel of the emergency brake handle . . . I think it's unique and adds to the character of the car.

stickman

I think the emergency break set up is unique and consistent with the other unique aspects of this car. True, it is difficult to tell if it is engaged by looking at it, but then there is the light on the dash to tell you if it is engaged.

MrDave

What is the website for AutoExe...?

Texas 8

I agree wholeheartedly. I like it.

moRotorMotor

I understand what you guys are saying about the emergency brake. But my take on the handle position is like that so you can grasp it easier during AutoX or drifting. I know, I know, it sounds ridiculous, but what about the HUGE tach staring back at you? Maybe this car is designed with a lot more of sporting in mind than other sport cars and so the cockpit is designed the way it is?.

To me, it looks like an ejection handle on a jet fighter or something but I don't mind it. On the other hand, I would understand it to be annoying for those with RHD (right hand drive) because it is so close to you and it might get in the way of changing gears (like Tiff Needle mentioned on Top Gear)

Feel free to comment on this because I could be the farthest from the truth. This is just my view on this topic and isn't the absolute reason.

winter

I like the handbrake, for the most part, but it gets awfully awkward when you've got a male friend sitting shotgun. I know most of you are talking about changing the e-brake handle, but I suggest simply finding a cute girl to sit in the passenger seat at all times.

flatso

I think the handbrake would bother me if I lived in the UK where it interferes with shifting because it is in the same spot as the US model they just moved the steering wheel.

hotpot

I have a RHD RX8 and the hand brake in no way interferes with shifting. But I would also have preferred it to be flush with the centre console.

BTW, Why do some of you call it an emergency brake handle? Is it the American name for it? I've always known it as hand brake or parking brake.

Japan8

It's all Japanese, but... http://www.autoexe.co.jp

You can try Japanparts.com, Vividracing.com or RotaryExtreme and see if they carry it. I am pretty sure one of them does. The steering wheel is a bit steep at about $500 though...

I hate it too. The shift **** is so so for me. Mazda could have used a little bit less rotary accents IMO. When I finally get my 8, I'm changing the handbrake, shift **** and steering wheel with the AutoExe ones...

flatso

We call it an "emergency brake" in US because it's suppose to be used if your primary brakes ever fail for any reason in an "emergency" situation.

AN5-23b

Wonder what would hapen if you just cut off the bottom part-loop?
Would brake fall flush or stick partially up still?