braking problems

hello fellow forum members,


got few problem when slowing down on my K3 (25,000miles). the brakes are pretty rubbish crap compared to my k5 (10,000 miles). i have checked discs and brake pads and they fine and re-bleed brakes. i have heard of these braided hoses, does anyone think this willl solve my problem.

for clarity i can stop with my brakes they work fine. just comparing them to a newer bike they just don't seem to have the same crisp performance. and as we all have those moments of going that little bit to quick, i need to sort it.



i have had a small look at some on intobikes.co.uk and have no idea what to get. can someone point me in right direct for how many lines i need, recommend some good reliable makes and fair prices. looks at spending £50

Have you serviced your calipers at all?

I'd suggest giving that ago, there are plenty of threads on here about it. As it's your brakes be sure you know what you're doing, or get them looked at my a mechanic.

Braided lines do help, but don't offer any advantage over rubber hoses except that they last longer.

Originally Posted by sam anon

Braided lines do help, but don't offer any advantage over rubber hoses except that they last longer.

Are you sure about that?

i think my dad serviced the callipers, i will double check on it. i was thinking that the bike is coming on 8 years old maybe the rubber hoses need changing? and if they not worth buying why do people buy them to pimp their machine?

[Geodude]

AFAIK Braided hoses give less expansion of the tubes so offer better braking pressure or so i was told but im no brake expert

[andrewsmith]

Originally Posted by Geodude

AFAIK Braided hoses give less expansion of the tubes so offer better braking pressure or so i was told but im no brake expert

thats the theory.

Suzuki say that the hoses should be changed every 4 years (well not at around £175 for fronts). I know a few mechanics that say the hoses will last a lot longer under normal conditions.

Most effective way to improve the brakes is a service/ overhaul (seals etc..) and braided lines. Mine are too brutal atm, hellish for pulling stoppies tho

Do you use the bike to commute?

If the brakes never really get used in anger the pads could be glazed.

Braided hoses can help make the brakes sharper, but rubber hoses give more feel. Rubber hoses are supposed to be replaced after 4 years anyway.

The easiest way to make sure all the air is out is to zip tie the brake lever back to the grip overnight. Cut it next morning and then check system for any sign of fluid leaks. Hope this helps.

I'm with the give them a good servicing gang. You m,ay be amazed how much better they'll feel.

Just a thought but if the calipers/disks/pads/lines etc are all serviced and in good nick it could just be different pads between the two bikes giving different feel.

[yorkie_chris]

Originally Posted by TazDaz

Are you sure about that?

Yes. Between braided and new rubber ones there's no difference.
Between braided and 7 year old squishy rubber OTOH...

you need to diagnose what is wrong with the brakes, are they squishy? Is there drag in the lever? Or are they lacking bite (less deceleration for the same pressure)