Are Braided Brake Lines a Good Safety Investment for Your Motorcycle?

The question of whether to upgrade to braided brake lines is a common one among motorcycle enthusiasts. The short answer is yes, but the long answer is a bit more nuanced. Let’s explore the factors to consider.

Overview of Rubber Brake Lines

Rubber brake lines are a tried-and-true solution for motorcycle braking systems, having been used successfully for decades. These lines are made to perform their function of transmitting hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder to the brakes. However, there are a couple of main drawbacks to rubber brake lines.

Firstly, they tend to expand under pressure and heat. This expansion can result in a spongy braking feel, which, while not immediate, can be noticeable to experienced riders. Secondly, rubber brake lines are more prone to damage, particularly in off-road scenarios or any situation where they are subjected to physical abuse.

Advantages of Braided Brake Lines

Braided brake lines, on the other hand, offer significant advantages. They do not expand under pressure and heat, and they are more resistant to damage. This can result in a sharper, more consistent braking feel, which many riders appreciate. In off-road situations, where the sheep stopper effect of a spongy brake line is more pronounced, the benefit of braided lines can be even more pronounced.

Safety and Performance Considerations

From a safety perspective, braided lines can be considered an upgrade. They provide a more reliable and predictable brake feel, which can be reassuring for riders. However, it's important to note that brake safety is not solely dependent on the type of brake line. Other components of the braking system, such as pads, rotors, and master cylinders, also play a crucial role.

Improving Brake Pad and Rotor Quality: Brake pads are the first line of defense when it comes to stopping power. Replacing old, worn-out pads with high-quality ones can significantly improve your braking performance. Similarly, upgrading to better quality rotors can offer marginal but significant improvements, especially under heavy use.

Master Cylinder and Fluid: An often-overlooked component is the master cylinder. A better master cylinder can increase the pressure applied to the brakes, thereby enhancing overall stopping power. Additionally, regular maintenance and servicing of the brake fluid can ensure it remains fresh and effective.

Conclusion: When to Upgrade

For riders who frequently take their motorcycles off-road, braided brake lines can indeed be considered a safety upgrade. The added resistance and sharper braking feel can be crucial in challenging terrains. Similarly, for track riders or those who engage in high-performance riding, a minor improvement in performance can be worthwhile.

However, for everyday road riders, the decision to upgrade may come down to other factors such as cost-effectiveness, the need for new lines, or a desire for an aesthetic upgrade. Regardless of the reason, it’s important to ensure that the entire braking system, including pads, rotors, and fluid, is properly maintained.

Additional Considerations

While braided lines can be an effective upgrade, it's crucial to not overlook the other components of your braking system. Regular maintenance and the use of high-quality parts are key to ensuring optimal performance and safety. Always use top-brand components when making any upgrades, as the safety and well-being of the rider should be the primary concern.