Steel Braided Brake Lines Vs Rubber Motorcycle
As a motorcycle owner, you know how important it is to keep your bike in top condition. One aspect of maintaining your motorcycle is ensuring that its brake system is working efficiently. The brake system is a vital part of any motorcycle, and it is essential to choose the right components to keep your brakes working at their best. One critical decision you’ll have to make is whether to go for steel braided brake lines or rubber brake lines. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each option, so you can decide which one is best for you.
What are steel braided brake lines?
Steel braided brake lines are made up of an inner hose made of Teflon or rubber, which is then covered by a braided steel sheath. The steel braiding helps to protect the hose from damage and provides additional strength and durability. Steel braided brake lines are typically used in high-performance motorcycles because they offer better braking performance and last longer than rubber brake lines.
What are rubber brake lines?
Rubber brake lines are made of a rubber hose that is reinforced with a braided or woven textile material. Rubber brake lines are the standard choice for most motorcycles because they are affordable and easy to replace. They work well in most situations but can deteriorate over time due to exposure to heat, moisture, and chemicals.
Pros and Cons of Steel Braided Brake Lines
Pros:
- Improved braking performance: Steel braided brake lines offer more consistent and reliable braking performance than rubber lines. They are less likely to expand under pressure, which means that they provide a firmer and more responsive brake pedal.
- Increased durability: Steel braided brake lines are highly durable and can last longer than rubber lines. They are less likely to crack, split or leak, which means that you’ll have to replace them less frequently.
- Enhanced safety: Steel braided brake lines are less likely to fail under extreme conditions, which means that they offer enhanced safety and protection for you and your motorcycle.
Cons:
- Higher cost: Steel braided brake lines are more expensive than rubber lines, which can be a disadvantage if you’re on a tight budget.
- Installation difficulty: Steel braided brake lines can be more difficult to install than rubber lines because they require specialized tools and expertise.
- Appearance: Some riders feel that steel braided brake lines look less attractive than rubber lines because of their industrial appearance.
Pros and Cons of Rubber Brake Lines
Pros:
- Affordability: Rubber brake lines are significantly cheaper than steel braided lines, which is a significant advantage if you’re on a budget.
- Ease of replacement: Rubber brake lines are easy to replace and can be done without specialized tools or expertise.
- Appearance: Rubber brake lines are more attractive than steel braided lines because they have a cleaner look.
Cons:
- Deterioration: Rubber brake lines can deteriorate over time due to exposure to heat, moisture, and chemicals, which means that they may need to be replaced more frequently.
- Poorer braking performance: Rubber brake lines can expand under pressure, which means that they may not provide as consistent or reliable braking performance as steel braided lines.
- Safety: Rubber brake lines can fail under extreme conditions, which can be dangerous for you and your motorcycle.
Conclusion
Both steel braided brake lines and rubber brake lines have their pros and cons. Steel braided brake lines offer better braking performance, increased durability, and enhanced safety, but they are more expensive and difficult to install. Rubber brake lines are affordable and easy to replace, but they can deteriorate over time and offer poorer braking performance. Ultimately, the choice between steel braided brake lines and rubber brake lines depends on your budget, riding style, and personal preferences. Whatever option you choose, make sure to maintain your brake system regularly to ensure optimal performance and safety.