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new handlebars and bending front break line

  #1  
Old 07-25-2014, 04:13 PM
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Default new handlebars and bending front break line

Hi,

I'm putting my hand controls back on after installing some biltwell frisco bars on my 02 sporty and I need to bend the front brake line (metal part) near where it attaches to the master cylinder since that section is too long.

1) Should I have any issues with bending the line as long as I'm careful?

2) Can I loosen the banjo bold holding it on to rotate the line forward so I only have to bend it once, instead of into an S curve? I mean if I do that will I have to bleed my brakes or anything like that?

Thanks!
 

Last edited by RubberToe; 07-25-2014 at 04:16 PM.
  #2  
Old 07-25-2014, 04:40 PM
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You shouldn't have any issues bending the brakeline. This is what I did:

1. Loosened the banjo bolt but didn't take it off.
2. Then bent the brakeline slightly carefully into a crooked straight line by hand.
3. Then pulled the brakeline up to fit the higher bars.
4. Tested the Front brake for operation.
4. Tighten everything back up.

All done with exactly $0 spent on the new brakeline for the higher bars.
 
  #3  
Old 07-25-2014, 05:47 PM
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Thanks. I got the controls on but the line is pressed pretty tight. I couldn't get any leverage on the banjo bold with a little 1/2" wrench. I think I'll run out and get a matching socket. I'm also down a bolt on one of the controls.

Time for a test ride.
 
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Old 07-25-2014, 07:56 PM
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Been there done that. If it is not working out go to JP Cycles and order a correct length brake line and fittings from Goodridge. You will be much happier with the fit and appearance.
 
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Old 07-25-2014, 11:57 PM
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I think bending a narrow thin wall tube that provides braking is a bad idea. Don't try to save a buck when it comes to brakes or tires. I took mine to a local hose shop and had them extend mine. Fits perfect for $25.
 
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Old 07-26-2014, 02:08 PM
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I put chumps on mine (6 1/2" rise, 6 1/2" pull-back) and the line was so tight that I couldn't even mount the brake lever assy. I bit the bullet and bought the cable kit. I got away with re-routing the clutch and throttle cables but, I ended up using the brake line from the kit. I still have the cables for when I may need them.

Buy the brake line
 
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Old 07-26-2014, 02:30 PM
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Spend the 30-40 bucks and do it right.
 
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Old 07-27-2014, 07:33 PM
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Hogie, what "cable kit" did you use?
 
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Old 07-28-2014, 07:44 AM
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Originally Posted by NorCal69
Hogie, what "cable kit" did you use?
I got the ones for 12" apes. It was the shortest kit I could find on J&P. It even came with extensions for the wires if needed.
The brake line was just right fit and I think nicer than the original in appearance.

Burly XL cable kit
 

Last edited by Hogie_gt; 07-28-2014 at 07:47 AM.
  #10  
Old 07-30-2014, 08:21 AM
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Default Easy bend

I changed my bars last winter and I am not a mechanic, but with the service manual and more time than is needed I was able to do it all without spending a cent. Confidence, care and a service manual are all you need.
 

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