Motorcycle Brake Lines

The majority of modern motorcycles are equipped with hydraulic brakes based on the principle of transforming kinetic energy into heat through friction. This kinetic energy is created by the rider who pushes the lever or steps on the pedal to apply pressure to the pistons in brake calipers. The pressure is transferred through flexible brake lines or hydraulic hoses that connect master cylinders to the calipers. The efficiency of the system directly depends on the ability of brake lines to resist expansion. In certain emergency situations, milliseconds may determine the fate of the rider, so the sooner the brakes start to act, the better.

Many bikes come from the factory equipped with rubber brake lines. They are flexible enough to allow for easy routing along the motorcycle frame, but they can be relatively easily damaged by flying rocks and other road debris. Over time, the inner lining of brake hoses degrades resulting in cracks through which the fluid may enter outer layers and even cause visible bulges. It reduces the ability of the brake line to transfer pressure leading to less effective braking. To prevent brakes failure caused by external damage and lining expansion, consider replacing your standard brake lines with their braided counterparts.

Stainless steel braided motorcycle brake lines are designed to increase stopping power and improve braking control. Besides durable stainless steel armor, such hoses may be reinforced by Teflon or aramid fiber lining. The inner lining is designed to withstand extreme cold and high temperatures. Also, these lines may feature chrome-plated or powder-coated hardware to complement the exterior design of your motorcycle. In our online store, we offer a wide range of premium-quality motorcycle brake lines by some of the most reputable manufacturers in the industry. Here you can find products from such brands as Twin Power, Biker’s Choice, Accutronix, Galfer, Goodridge, and many others.

Before changing your brake lines, make sure to wear safety glasses. Keep your working area clean. Prepare a container with water to wash away any splashes. If you have never done this before, it would be a good idea to consult a professional. Use only the specific type of braking fluid recommended by the manufacturer. Remember that unlike DOT 5 brake fluid, DOT 3, 4, and 5.1 types are chemically aggressive. If spilled, they could damage your paintwork and plastic parts, so be very careful when servicing your braking system.

First, you have to drain brake fluid from the system. Remove the cap on the master cylinder. Attach a hose to the bleeding port on the caliper or simply undo the lower banjo bolt holding the fitting. Place the hose or the line into a chemically resistant reservoir. You can drain the fluid by using a vacuum bleeder or pump it out with the lever on the master cylinder. When the system is empty, you can undo the upper banjo fitting. Remove all clamps holding the old brake line. The new line must be oriented correctly. Usually, the fitting that goes to the master cylinder is marked accordingly. Use only new crush washers when tightening banjo bolts. Refill the master cylinder with brake fluid and pump the lever to fill the system. After that, bleed the system to make sure that all air bubbles came out.