Brake Hate Surrounding 2016-2018 Street Twins.

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jermag24

Member
No, they're not dual disc Brembo's or anything, but mine have been more than enough to get me out of tight spots. when I bought my 2017 ST used I came across so much hate about the weak brakes on this model range. I rode mine for a weekend, then updated the maintenance on everything. Brakewise I inspected everything, replaced the pads with a slightly more aggressive compound, flushed the lines (which are in great condition still) with good synthetic brake fluid, adjusted front and rear for quick and full use/travel, and replaced my tires with stickier sport touring tires (game changer) and I feel that the stopping power is great for the bike and typical riding style it was intended for, even when riding aggressively.

Anyway, a bit of a rant but I would suggest not giving up on your older ST chasing 10%-20% improvements. If I HAD to choose between upgrading anything for aggressive riding, a simple set of stainless braided lines would suffice, but at this point it's not necessary.
 
Your point is well taken. When I was buying older bikes and refurbishing them the first thing I typically did was jettison the rubber brake lines and install SS braided lines for maximum braking power. Good call.
Thanks, SS lines definitely help. It took me too long in life to realize how much clean brake fluid affects brake firmness too. My fluid was black and the levers were spongy at first. Also, the pads were still original, and the rear lever was too low to get a good bite when needed.
 
A point on brake fluid. (Here I go again). Most phosphate esther fluids (i.e. brake fluid) have elevated hydroscopicity values (ability to absorb water). Over time the fluid darkens due to absorbtion of water and thus turns into a varnish that impedes braking performance. Regular flushing of brake fluid (about every 2 years) keeps braking performance optimal, reduces wear on components and prevents caliper piston locking (won't release). Rant done.
 
I replaced the brake lines on my 2012 Tiger with SS braided. And I flushed and changed my fluid annually. I did this because of the high humidity in Florida and the Southeastern US plus I averaged over 8K miles per year, 12,875 kilometers. Never had a brake problem. I'm going to upgrade to SS braided lines on my T120 the next time I need pads.
 
The brake lines on WC bikes are stainless braided from factory so no need to spend money there. Agree the stock brakes are good enough but i upgraded mine just for the fun of tinkering! Front double Raich 4 pots, Scrambler 1200 Brembo rear. Would not want to go back to stock.
RaischxR.jpg
Brembo.jpg
 
Just got back on 2 wheels after a 40 year pause. 03 America, low low miles. Went through the brakes. New seals in master and slave cylinders, front and back, new pads, fresh dot 4, Where can I purchase SS brake lines?
 

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