Front brake feels soft & clutch cable needs lube

[98formulaLS1]

When I bought the bike, the front brake was a bit soft. While having the brake handle completely squeezed, I could make the front tire spins if I put all my weight on and push forward. I thought that a ole brake fluid change and bleed would solve the problem. It didn't.

Does anyone have any recommendations as to a remedy? It's a really simple brake system: master cylinder w/ handle, rubber hose, brake pistion.

Also, my clutch cable is a bit sticky, but in really good condition. I'm sure it only needs some lube. Is there anyone who is willing to let me borrow their cable luber?

oh btw, 1981 Yamaha XJ550 Maxim.

[chappe]

edit my stupidity

try a Steel braided line. . . also, pump the Brake lever a few times (when the bike is stopped) before you ride. . .

[98formulaLS1]

try a Steel braided line. . . also, pump the cluctch a few times (when the bike is stopped) before you ride. . .

thanks,

why would I pump the clutch a few times? I've pumped the clutch 100 times so far, trying to get that thing to slide easier, if thats what you mean.

[chappe]

im talking about the brake.. if you pump it a few times (about 15 times) it should get a little harder.

[chappe]

sorry i just read wjhat i worte.. im an idiot... i meant the brake lever.. sorry

[98formulaLS1]

yeah, after pumping only twice, it primes to it's full braking power, which still isnt enough. Where can I get SS brakelines made for a motorcycle?

[skr00zloose]

I have a cable luber, just make sure I get it back :D

sounds like you still have air in the lines, it's not always easy to get it all out.

as far as stainless lines, you can get them thru just about any parts distributor.

[98formulaLS1]

I have a cable luber, just make sure I get it back :D

sounds like you still have air in the lines, it's not always easy to get it all out.

as far as stainless lines, you can get them thru just about any parts distributor.

I'll PM you about the luber, thanks.

As for the SS lines, believe it or not, but a ton of places dont make them, and done even KNOW where to get them. I did find two custom motorcycle shops that can indeed make them. I'll be going with Iron Core Motorcycles btw for the SS lines. They want about $45-$50 for it. Of this other shop wants $25 to make a custom rubber one. The yamaha brand line is discontinued, so a custom line is the only choice.

[chappe]

damn.. in your case i would go SS... i mean, im sure the improvement is well worth $15

[RUCrash]

I'll PM you about the luber, thanks.

As for the SS lines, believe it or not, but a ton of places dont make them, and done even KNOW where to get them. I did find two custom motorcycle shops that can indeed make them. I'll be going with Iron Core Motorcycles btw for the SS lines. They want about $45-$50 for it. Of this other shop wants $25 to make a custom rubber one. The yamaha brand line is discontinued, so a custom line is the only choice.

Dont bother with a rubber brake hose; not worth it imo

I'd tell you to check out Galfer for the line, they can custom make them as well for you. Either Galfer or Goodridge make great brake products. Also, if the brakes havent been bled or if the fluid is old that will make the system more spongy. If you dont want/know how to bleed the line completely, you can always open the brake resevoir, zip-tie the brake open, and let it sit overnight with a towel covering the resevoir. Not foolproof for getting air out, but it helps a bit.

[98formulaLS1]

Dont bother with a rubber brake hose; not worth it imo

I'd tell you to check out Galfer for the line, they can custom make them as well for you. Either Galfer or Goodridge make great brake products. Also, if the brakes havent been bled or if the fluid is old that will make the system more spongy. If you dont want/know how to bleed the line completely, you can always open the brake resevoir, zip-tie the brake open, and let it sit overnight with a towel covering the resevoir. Not foolproof for getting air out, but it helps a bit.

thanks for the brake liner maker suggestion.

as for all the other stuff, please read the thread.