"SS" Brake lines??

[Rhumba]

When we say stainless steel brake lines, are we talking SOLID SS lines that are used in our cages or regular rubber ones with a SS sheath on the outside?

If we are talking the rubber with a SS wrap, how does this wrap make the brake line stronger, or does it at all? Is it just for show?

In other words, what is the biggest advantage to "SS" brake lines?

[XSPastor]

SS lines with with a rubber core. The SS keeps the line from expanding when it is pressurized so the brakes have a more solid feel and less hand (or foot) pressure is needed to get the same braking.

[Rhumba]

I wonder if that "braiding" is like those Chinese finger puzzles? You know, push the ends together and the diameter expands setting you free. I hope the braiding on the brake cables doesn't do that over time or do they lock them together somehow?

[Guy_b_g]

The SS lines don't have a reinforced rubber core like the OEM brake lines...it's generally a harder, less flexible teflon core. It doesn't bend as easily as oem, but is easier to kink and less resistant to rubbing/chafing damage...thus the stainless outer sheath. The stainless sheath itself can rub and cause damage to whatever finish it's rubbing against, so it often gets a plastic cover on it.

SS lines don't expand nearly as much as OEM rubber under hard braking, and give a firmer feel, and more feedback about how much force you are using. On oem brake lines they expand enough to cause more lever travel for the same amount of brake force, and tend to feel more "spongy".

Oem lines are also less long lasting than stainless lines, because rubber degrades more over time from ozone in the air, heat, UV, and chemicals they may have come in contact with.

Stainless is better, lots of newer bikes get them from the factory, but they are more expensive, so some still don't.

[TADracer]

Well, for whatever reason, if you have stainless braided lines you will never go back. The difference in pedal/lever feel is like from sponge to rock. Plus, they look so much better.