Are Braided Brake Lines Better for a Motorcycle?

When it comes to motorcycle brake systems, the choice between traditional brake lines and braided brake lines can significantly impact performance and safety. While both options have their merits, braided brake lines offer a range of advantages that make them a popular choice among seasoned motorcyclists and experienced mechanics.

Understanding Brake Line Material

Brake lines are critical components in any motorcycle's braking system, responsible for transmitting hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder to the brake calipers. The design and material of the lines can affect the overall performance and feel of the braking system. Traditionally, motorcycle brake lines have been made from steel, but in recent decades, braided lines have emerged as a preferred alternative.

The Advantages of Braided Brake Lines

One of the primary advantages of braided brake lines is their superior pressure retention. Unlike traditional steel brake lines, braided lines expand less under pressure. This reduced expansion means that you get less piston travel in the master cylinder to achieve the same pressure in the system. This translates to a better 'feel' and more precise control over the brakes.

From a technical standpoint, this improvement in pressure retention is not just theoretical. Back in the '80s, at my workplace, we performed some rigorous back-to-back displacement testing of braided lines against original equipment manufacturer (OEM) lines on our brake dynamometer. The results were clear: braided lines performed exceptionally well. This led me to exclusively use braided lines on our dyno and subsequent motorcycle projects. Currently, four out of my six motorcycles are equipped with braided brake lines due to their superior performance.

Legacy of Braided Lines

The preference for braided brake lines is not just a recent trend. I have been a proponent of these lines for decades. My professional experience and personal experience with the benefits of braided lines have earned me a loyal following among my colleagues and clients. The vast majority of bike shops and enthusiasts agree that the transition from traditional steel lines to braided lines is worth the investment.

Even Novices Can Benefit from Braided Lines

While experts and seasoned motorcyclists often appreciate the improved responsiveness and better feel that braided lines offer, these lines can also benefit novice riders. For beginners, the 'softer feel' provided by standard steel lines can be more comforting and easier to control. It may take some getting used to, but the transition to braided lines can ultimately make for a more confident and safer rider.

Handling Vibrations and Engine Throbs

A key advantage of braided brake lines is their ability to handle and absorb the natural vibrations induced by a motorcycle's roaring engine, especially in single and twin-cylinder designs. These vibrations can vibrate traditional steel lines and even cause them to rust, leading to potential failures. Braided lines, with their textured surface and flexible nature, provide a more durable and reliable solution.

Long-Term Benefits and Cost

Switching to braided brake lines involves both short-term and long-term benefits. Initially, the installation cost and labor can be higher than traditional lines. However, the long-term benefits in terms of performance and reliability often make the initial investment worthwhile. Furthermore, braided lines often last longer than traditional steel lines, reducing the need for frequent replacements and saving money in the long run.

Conclusion

While the decision to upgrade to braided brake lines ultimately depends on individual circumstances and preferences, the advantages of these lines in terms of pressure retention, durability, and performance make them a compelling choice. For seasoned riders and those dedicated to optimal motorcycle safety, the benefits are clear. Whether you are a hands-on mechanic or a casual rider, considering braided brake lines is a prudent step in enhancing your motorcycle's braking system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes braided brake lines better than traditional steel lines?
Braided brake lines expand less under pressure, offering better pressure retention and a more precise feel, which can lead to improved responsiveness and better control over the brakes.

Are braided brake lines suitable for novices?
While more experienced riders might prefer the feel of braided lines, they can also work well for novices by providing a softer feel that is easier to control.

How do braided brake lines handle vibrations from the engine?
Braided lines are better at absorbing the vibrations from a motorcycle's engine, reducing the risk of rust and potential failures that can occur with traditional steel lines.

In summary, the choice between traditional and braided brake lines ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs. For those prioritizing performance, reliability, and safety, braided brake lines offer a significant upgrade.