any concensus on what's the best steel brake line??

[snowbeard]

I think I'm going to get some to replace my 23 yr old lines 8O and wondered what is the preferred?? Russell? HEL? Goodridge? might have a line on some Russell...

also, I've only seen a few, but they're smaller than mine, is it just because the steel can be thinner with the same strength or can you go down in inside diameter without hurting performance??

also, can you got to a straight bolt in as opposed to the banjo bolt with these or should there always be a banjo?

thanks a ton!!

 

[cbxchris]

They are all basically the same. I think at one time or another I`ve used them all. Last year I put a set of russells on one of 1150`s. Really make a difference. Yes they are smaller due to the metal being stronger and the inner core of different material. Its not a big deal to make your own if you are close to a speed shop. I had to make the rear line for the 1150 because they are no longer made. I used Earl`s lines and fittings.

 

[snowbeard]

did you just get a roll and start fabricating?? I suppose you need a special cutter and a crimper, maybe something to help spread the forces of the crimps down the line a bit? maybe I should start a new business, cause none of the places I've looked are cheap!! 8O

 

[rodcwer]

yes you still have to use banjo bolt.you can purchase new with lines if needed

 

[cbxchris]

You can buy line with a adapter already made on each end then just screww the fitting or banjo in you need to complete the line. Very simple. You just need to know the length including the fittings.

 

[KEITH KRAUSE]

I have Russell's. Bit expensive, but I'm happy with 'em.

 

[fastpakr]

I have Russell's. Bit expensive, but I'm happy with 'em.

About how much are we talking about for the Russell lines?

 

[oldschoolGS]

I have Russell lines on the GS and Goodrich on the TL. Goodrich has a better finish and are plastic coated. The Russell's were bought 15 years ago for the GS, so they might be better finished now. Either way they do make a noticable difference. Combined with premium rubber and pads, two fingers gets the job done. Good Luck, Ed.
1983 GS750ED
2001 TL1000S
http://groups.msn.com/SuzukiGSGarage/gs750edbacktolife.msnw?action=ShowPhoto&PhotoID=3191

 

[KEITH KRAUSE]

I have Russell's. Bit expensive, but I'm happy with 'em.

About how much are we talking about for the Russell lines?

Back in '00, for my '79 GS1000E, the rear were $47 and the front (dual disc) were $118. Like I said, expensive, but they were made perfect. No leaks or bends that stick out and they have nice chrome fittings and clear protective tubing.
I have a close up of them at my website if you want to see them. Just click the WWW symbol below.

 

[KGB]

I have Russell's. Bit expensive, but I'm happy with 'em.

About how much are we talking about for the Russell lines?

Back in '00, for my '79 GS1000E, the rear were $47 and the front (dual disc) were $118. Like I said, expensive, but they were made perfect. No leaks or bends that stick out and they have nice chrome fittings and clear protective tubing.
I have a close up of them at my website if you want to see them. Just click the WWW symbol below.

I also installed Russel lines many years ago, over 10, less than 15.
Price was about what Keith quoted, and fit perfect.

yes the ydon't have plastic coating, no performance advantage.
Disadvantage? non realy since they fit so well they don't rub anywhere.

Still work

 

[fastpakr]

Keith (or anybody else) - do you know where you can buy them online? I found a reference on Russell's website that they do indeed make a set for the 82 750E, but I'd like to find a place to confirm pricing and to order from, in a month or so.

 

[lhanscom]

Dennis Kirk deals with Russell

 

[Mr. Jiggles]

I didn't think that Dennis Kirk stocked the russell kits that were specifically made for our bikes anymore. I had a tough time finding a set for my 82 1100e. You might want to try flanders (www.flandersco.com), where I got mine.

Jeff

 

[fastpakr]

Excellent, they had the prices right on the site. $106.95 for fronts, 42.95 rear, 12.95 per valve for the speed bleeders. Thanks for the link.

 

[Guest]

They list the Russell front lines at $175 for the '82 1100E....guess you guys got a heck of a deal!

 

[Anonymous]

Out of the Canadian Motovan Catalogue the price is 300 with tax for a GS1100EX. They were plastic coated Russell lines. I bought 3 lines, 6 banjos, a double length banjo bolt with switch, and a box of 10 washers for this price. I had to get a 2" longer line for the back though... I'll post lengths once I get it all together.

Lines are generally 50 bucks each and 10 bucks per banjo, regardless of length.

Steve

 

[Mr. Jiggles]

They list the Russell front lines at $175 for the '82 1100E....guess you guys got a heck of a deal!

I placed the order over the phone. When the sales person told me that the lines were uncoated I hesitated to go for them. She then offered me a 50% discount which I couldn't pass up (justified it by saying that it was a part for an old bike - second time that's happened to me). I put some tygon tubing over the sections that might rub against other parts. They work great and look fine.

Jeff

 

[Anonymous]

One other thing I forgot is that you need to adjust the brake light switch when you switch to braided lines. Your bike will be doing cartwheels down the road before the brake light comes on. 8O It is pretty tricky to get it working with braided lines because you're trying to set-up a hair trigger with low tolerance parts.

Steve

 

[Guest]

I managed to score a nos Russell rear kit .....unfortunately, no matching front ...it is uncoated Russell Cycleflex ss line wth the end fittings and new crush washers....the stock banjo bolts have to be re-used.....still, for $25.00 U.S I think its a good deal.

Tony.

 

[Guest]

I managed to score a nos Russell rear kit .....unfortunately, no matching front ...it is uncoated Russell Cycleflex ss line wth the end fittings and new crush washers....the stock banjo bolts have to be re-used.....still, for $25.00 U.S I think its a good deal.

Tony.