Poor brakes - pads and lines?
 

I had a chance to test ride some Suzukis last Saturday, and apart from realizing how much I love SV, I also noticed that my brakes are not good at all.
So brain storm began - what to do?
I don't think I will be trying to swap brake system for something from another bike (if possible at all) so I am thinking about getting braided lines and new pads (although mines are absolutely fine - plenty of 'meat' still on them). I've got some questions then:

1. Is it a good idea to change lines and pads at the same time? Does it make anything easier/harder (never done anything on brakes apart from changing fluid)?
2. Which lines should I get?
3. Which pads should I get?
4. Should I change pads at all?
5. Is there anything else I could do?

Thanks in advance!

Re: Brakes - pads and lines
 

when was the last time the callipers were serviced, e.g. stripped, cleaned and greased?

Re: Brakes - pads and lines
 

probably - never

Re: Brakes - pads and lines
 

well that's a good place to start rather than spend money on things that are going to make no difference unless the callipers are in good state to begin with.

Re: Brakes - pads and lines
 

ok - good suggestion

I guess I just have to figure out how to do it.
Lines need to be replaced anyway (according to service schedule) so I could as well get proper ones...

Re: Brakes - pads and lines
 

don't worry to much about the rubber lines but since your draining the system then i suppose now would be a good time to put some braided on.

once you learn how to service your callipers i would suggest that you do it once a year. doing this will save you money and keep your brakes in tip top condition.

the SV brakes are more than up to the job of stopping the SV if working correctly.

Re: Brakes - pads and lines
 

As above, maintenance first, replacement parts 2nd.

I'd personally strip & rebuild the calipers, using red rubber grease on the seals, boots & sliders. I'd also clean the discs and pads up with some cloth and brake cleaner or other high flash point de-greaser. If you have any build up of dirt in the holes in the discs, take the time to clean those out before cleaning the discs. Put the pads back in the same calipers, and do not get any oil or grease on the friction surfaces.

Bleed the system through with fresh DOT 4, or 5.1 fluid (5 is different stuff entirely and not suitable for the road) depending on how flush you're feeling. I've yet to have an issue with standard DOT 4 even under track conditions so I'd say that's just fine.

At the same time, take the brake lever off, clean the pivot and the surfaces, and just put a little dab of red rubber grease / silicone grease on the surface of the master cylinder piston where the brake level nub touches it. You're rebuilding the whole lot, it'd be a shame if it felt bad because of a gummy lever :)

Jambo

Re: poor brakes - pads and lines?
 

Rebuilt mine earlier this year - had 3 seized pistons! Well worth stripping the calipers and seeing whether they're working correctly.

Re: poor brakes - pads and lines?
 

thanks Jambo, I changed fluid about two months ago, so I don't think I have to do it again.

but will definitely do some proper cleaning.

still would like to replace the lines - any suggestions there?

Re: poor brakes - pads and lines?
 

cleaning callipers involves replacing brake fluid. you have to strip the callipers down to individual parts, this includes popping the pistons out and cleaning behind the seals.