Harley Motorcycle Brake Lines - Rubber or Stainless? - Harley Forum

Buzz Kanter · #1 04-14-2009, 09:15 PM

Curious how many forum members here have swapped out the rubber brake lines on their Harley motorcycles for stainless ones and how they like them?

Softailzz · #2 04-14-2009, 10:27 PM

I want to do this with all my cables. Thing is, what's the easiest way to find the size you need. Changed to the drag bars so should order shorter ones, right? 6" rise on bars, -2" short enough?

JCourneyaP · #3 04-20-2009, 11:33 PM

I swapped out the front brake line and clutch cable and went to stainless. No problems with them. Still look good. I did not do the back brake line because its pretty much hidden and not worth it in looks.

Now that I sit back and look at all the cosmetic stuff I did I wonder why? Did I just waste a bunch of dough or was it worth it. Hmmmm. I still ponder that.

Kinda leading on wasted alot of money........Live and learn I guess. If I get another bike it will be changed very little in looks from stock. Course new grips are always a must. Other than that.

03fxst · #4 04-21-2009, 06:59 PM

I switched to stainless on the rear when I put the forward controls on last year.Needed the longer line anyway so I thought I'd try it. I like the look. I didn't really notice the old one because it was a black line running along a black frame. The new one has functionality and style. I do think I'll foillow with the front now to match it.

03FXST

texan321 · #5 04-24-2009, 11:18 AM

I learned a lesson when I sold my 1997 RoadKing - I got no value for the upgrades I did. I had to sell it based on the book price.....so - I have chosen the upgrades on my )& carefully - not planning on getting a dime for them..strictly for me.....

sgtcowboyusmc · #6 04-24-2009, 11:38 AM

I have been thinking about changing mine out, when I get more money, because of the heat out here. The heat is tough on rubber type components. I too would be interested in hearing anyone who is in the hotter climbs and see how it effected them.

Gas Man · #7 06-14-2009, 04:22 PM

I have did this upgrade on rockets for both street and track. it has its benifits and downfalls.

Better braking power cause the SS lines don't expand under pressure like the rubbers do
If you have any small warp to the rotors you will feel it now, its no longer absorbed in the brake lines. Had this happen on a rocket once.
Better cosmetics on many bikes unless its black front end... then the SS line may stick out more.

My big dog had them stock. I liked em. On my hog... no way I'm spending the money on such an upgrade... IMO