Brake lines Kevlar or SS

superbs929rr · 09-08-2007, 2:06 PM

I really want to dump my factory brake lines soon for some kevlar or Stainless steel. What do you guys think are better. I really like the Goodridge kevlar my friend got those on his gsxr 1000 and it feels amazing. Are the SS lines just asgood or no where close. Thanks

slickwill · 09-08-2007, 2:56 PM

I think that in most circles SS are considered to be far superior to kevlar. The only advantage that kevlar has is a little less weight. For all other factors, durability, pressure, etc, the SS win. Check out Galfer and HEL. Can't go wrong with either. Cal-sportbike will make a package deal with front and rear, Motul 5.1, and a double banjo bleeder for under $150. I installed my rear line Thursday night and the front lines this morning. I can't fault the Galfers at all other than the rear could be two inches shorter. The craftsmanship is top notch. They look amazing. I coughed up the extra $20 to have all my fitting be gold and they look great.

superbs929rr · 09-08-2007, 6:28 PM

What about the kits without the banjo bolts the kits for racing are those a lot better . I see some Galfer kits that bolt straight up to caliper without banjo bolt.

SpikedLemon · 09-09-2007, 3:36 PM

My $0.02: both are significantly superior to rubber.

The purpose of the braiding, either Kevlar or SS, is to prevent the interior tube (which is still rubber), from expanding when you apply the brakes. Hence: it provides better force to the brakes instead of wasting it expanding the brake lines.

When I had to choose: I went with SS. Why? I felt that SS looked better and I wasn't 100% on how long Kevlar would last over time with UV rays breaking down the material (yes: UV rays break down Kevlar - but with a suitable sleeve to block the UV on the brake lines; it'll be good for many years). It's not to say Kevlar wouldn't last (which is likely would) or will burst (which it likely wont) but I just felt more confident with SS.

benmoore929RR · 09-11-2007, 4:15 AM

You could piece together a really nice set of steel braided brake lines of the Goodridge brand. They're easy to assemble and they make banjo's of all three typical angles to match the ones on your hoses. Also if you don't have banjo's then they do make the fittings to thread on also. Put it this way I only spent a grand total at the dealer $100 in total parts. They look sick and work very well.