| On the following pages we will try to help those
who wish to do their own front brake line replacement on their VTR1000F. This job is one
of the most popular modifications done to a sport bike. The difference this modification
makes to the operation of the brakes is usually impressive. There are all types and brands of replacement brake lines on the market today. We are not recommending any brand in this article. We are using a brake line kit obtained from Lockhart Phillips. It is a two line kit.
It is composed of two brake lines, three banjo bolts 7 sealing washers and no instructions. Please note that DOT 4 and below brake fluid is rather caustic. It can cause damage to painted parts. You should take appropriate steps to protect your painted parts. If you want to be very cautious you can remove all the painted parts from your bike. This article does not cover removal of painted parts. Use proper caution when handling brake fluid. Which brings up the first decision point. Are you going to switch over to DOT5 when you change your lines or are you going to continue to use DOT4. DOT5 is a Silicone based brake fluid that has some superior properties. First off it is not harmful to painted parts. It also does not attract moisture, as DOT4 does, which stops the corrosion that occurs in brake systems if the fluid is not changed frequently. It also has a higher operating temperature.
If you change to DOT5 you have to do more than if you stick with DOT4. You have to remove the Master Cylinder and Brake Calipers to clean out the old DOT4 before installing DOT5. Whereas you just remove the old lines and install the new ones, then bleed the system if you continue to use DOT4. We will cover both here.
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