Stainless steel brake lines upgrade: Difference between revisions

No edit summary
Line 17: Line 17:
[http://cyclebrakes.com/ Cycle Brakes] is a good place to start. They have a lot of info on their site, different colors to choose from, and they carry all sorts of brake-related stuff.  
[http://cyclebrakes.com/ Cycle Brakes] is a good place to start. They have a lot of info on their site, different colors to choose from, and they carry all sorts of brake-related stuff.  


All three of the top brands ([http://www.galferusa.com/MOTO.html Galfer], [http://www.spieglerusa.com/cfm/brakelines.cfm Spiegler], [http://www.goodridge.net/usa/motorcycle.htm Goodridge]) are, for most bikes, equally good. However, as of July, 2007 only Galfer has a kit for the EX250 (part #FK003D249 front, #FK003D249R rear); with Goodridge you'd have to use a universal line. This is generally not recommended. Spiegler claims to have a kit, but theirs is far from plug-and-play. It involves bending some of the fittings, and we don't like it because of that. Safety-related items should work right out of the box.  
All three of the top brands ([http://www.galferusa.com/MOTO.html Galfer], [http://www.spieglerusa.com/cfm/brakelines.cfm Spiegler], [http://www.goodridge.net/usa/motorcycle.htm Goodridge]) are, for most bikes, equally good. However, as of July 2007 only Galfer has a kit for the EX250; with Goodridge you'd have to use a universal line. This is generally not recommended. Spiegler claims to have a kit, but theirs is far from plug-and-play. It involves bending some of the fittings, and we don't like it because of that. Safety-related items should work right out of the box.  
 
'''Galfer part #s'''
 
On [http://www.galferusa.com/MOTO.html Galfer site] pdf:
 
*front: FK003D249 
*rear: FK003D249R
 
At [http://www.cyclebrakes.net/index.asp?PageAction=PRODSEARCH&txtSearch=+D249&btnSearch=GO&Page=1 Cycle Brakes]:
 
*front: FK003D249-1 
*rear: FK003D249-R 
*Front/rear kit (saves money):  COMBOD249-1F-1R


The manufacturers generally sell through dealers. Contact your local dealer, or use a search engine to find out who sells them online. There are other makers out there, too, so poke around. eBay has dealers who carry parts as well. You can also get ss lines made up from a reputable local hot rod/speed shop.  
The manufacturers generally sell through dealers. Contact your local dealer, or use a search engine to find out who sells them online. There are other makers out there, too, so poke around. eBay has dealers who carry parts as well. You can also get ss lines made up from a reputable local hot rod/speed shop.  


One thing to make sure and look for is that the line has a plastic covering over the steel braid. Without this, you run the risk of lines cutting through fenders, radiators, or even tires. This is generally not a problem. You'll probably be trying to decide what color your covering will be; just make sure that the line comes with one before you order.
One thing to make sure and look for is that the line has a plastic covering over the steel braid. Without this, you run the risk of lines cutting through fenders, radiators, or even tires. Most suppliers have this taken care of; in fact, you'll probably be trying to decide what color your covering will be. Just make sure that the line comes with one before you order.


Price is usually pretty cheap, somewhere in the US$50-60 range up front, slightly less for the rear. Plus, you'll have the pleasure of knowing your braking systems (and hence, your safety) are up to snuff. Even better? You can easily do the upgrade yourself with simple hand tools.   
Price is usually pretty cheap, somewhere in the US$50-60 range up front, slightly less for the rear. Plus, you'll have the pleasure of knowing your braking systems (and hence, your safety) are up to snuff. Even better? You can easily do the upgrade yourself with simple hand tools.