Stainless Steel Brake Lines

[REFFI]

OK, OK, I did it.

I had SS brake linesinstalled a couple of weeks ago (Mesa Hose, Costa Mesa, CA $110 for a full set for my '80G) by the dealer. I was the parts runner. Dealer removed the lines, I ran them to Mesa Hose. Two hours later, I picked the new lines up and took them to the dealer for installation. All it took was money and time. (I've kissed off the cash I sent to Chris Rawson.)

Two things:

1. When I went to pick up my new lines, the guy told me that the rigid portion of the line connector broke when he tried to take it apart. Now, when anyone has replaced their lines, have you replaced the rigid section, too; or have you just put new stainless up to that point? Were you able to take that section apart. Acccording to the dealer, the factory permanently affixes the fitting (by epoxy or brazing, I don't know which) to the hard line. The guy just made me a new section with a union and flexible stainless brake line, the dealer said it went in easily and was easier to align, so I'm not mad at anybody, I'm just curious.

2. Finally took the bike out for a ride today. All I can say is WOW! I've got serious braking now. Didn't know how spongy my brakes had become. They are little touchier, but I'm being gentle in my applications.

A note: Mesa Hose will make any lines you want (they are biker folk). The catch is you have to send in your lines for duplication. The turnaround would be a day at most. They advertise in Full Throttle magazine (free subscription). I have no financial or other interest in their enterprise, they just gave me good service and value for my money.

Ralph

[Pat Kelly]

Hi Ralph,
When I replaced my lines with SS (from Chris Rawson) 2 years ago I had no problems.
The front was 3 flexible lines. The rear has 2 short flexi sections with a solid line in the middle.
The replacement rear was a single SS line that went from M/C to caliper. I was able to disassemble the three pieces without any problems.
I will upgrade every bike I ever own with SS lines. I have 2 XS750's to go.

[Robert Haller]

Originally posted by Pat Kelly
Hi Ralph,
When I replaced my lines with SS (from Chris Rawson) 2 years ago I had no problems.
I will upgrade every bike I ever own with SS lines. I have 2 XS750's to go.

Is there any consensus as to what's the best deal for SS lines now that Chris doesn't seem to be an option any more?

[REFFI]

I guess it would depend where you live and how fast you need turnaround on your lines. My price from Chris Rawson was $130. My price from Mesa Hose was $110 ($100 cash).

Ralph

[jetmechmarty]

I need to compare the length of the lines on my XS1100 to my XS650. If they are the same, the stainless lines can be sourced from MIKE'S XS. Each section is $45 or $135 for all three.

[justyn.smith]

G'day,

WOW!

Every time I've needed parts for my '81sport I've had to look to the USA for a better deal than I can get here, but that seems to be just for original XS parts...

I recently had a complete set of SS lines made up to specs (change of h/bars) at a total cost of AU$60.00

It pays to shop around huh!

[randy]

I can supply a full set of 4 hoses, three for the front and one for the rear in stainless with clear hose covering. Based on the Standard, my FRONT hoses are 16" M/C to Union, 22" Union to Front Calipers. REAR is one hose run 19" that fits into the stock mounting clamp on the swingarm.

Tested to 2000 PSI, my hoses come with 10mm screw on banjo's (just like the goodridge) for $120 a set. That's my cost, passed through to you. Shipping is $7 anywhere in the continental US. Turnaround is 2 weeks to ship after reciept of order. Interested parties e-mail me back.

Randy

[2fast]

another possible supplier

FYI, another possible source for stainless lines is pirtek, they are a national (international) franchise that makes all types of specialty hoses. I am going to get oil cooler lines from them, teflon and stainless for about $83. http://www.pirtekusa.com

[morticiaann]

http://www.denniskirk.com/jsp/produc...true&brand=658
Try Dennis Kirk. I got a set of stainless front brake lines for $160.00. Watch for street legal brands. The local shop told me not to worry about warnings on the lines that they were not for street.

[pathfinder]

SOURCE for S/S Brake Lines

Wow, these things really work. Look great to. Remember to tell Randy if you have a handle bar riser. On a 78 XS11E you need a 19" front M/C Line not 16" if your riser is 1-1/2" up & 1-1/2" back. I screwed up, but Randy took care of it ASAP. Great guy to work with. The best part about the whole thing is he's right here on the list Randy Ragos better known as "The Swamp Thing"
I've got pics here after install. http://www.imagestation.com/album/?id=4286970403

Dave Delzell (AKA Pathfinder)
delzell@iname.com

[TopCatGr58]

Update!

First,

I've posted in several threads praising the performance of my new HEL USA SS brake lines!! They are available on the NET, and in a variety of colors to match your color scheme. A little pricier, but custom made, and they can provide custom lengths at no extra charge!

Secondly,

Randy regrettably lost his source connection for the parts for the SS brake lines, and is NO LONGER able to provide them!
T.C.

[TADracer]

I replaced the stock lines with Russel SS lines about two years ago. They make your brakes rock hard. Try em and you will NEVER go back to stock lines. Upkeep is minimal too.

[REFFI]

Randy Lawson

I don't want to whine, but it would be nice if he sent back my money.

Ralph

[randy]

Ralph,

Different Randy!

[REFFI]

OOOOOOPPPS

Ralph