Best brake line configuration?

[kevin_stevens]

Here's the deal - most aftermarket SS brake line kits use two near-equal lines run directly from each caliper to the MC, so I've never had a choice to make before. However, I'm looking at Hel lines, and for my ZX-14 they have three different line configurations available:

1) The aforementioned two line direct MC-caliper configuration
2) The stock configuration, which is a single line MC-right caliper, and a second over-the-fender line to the left caliper
3) A "Y" configuration, single line MC-junction block, then two short lines to either caliper

Now, theoretically, it shouldn't matter how you run the lines; thanks to the miracle of hydraulics the entire system sees the same pressure. In the real world; however, I'm thinking that configuration 2 may be preferable, simply because it provides the shortest total hose length; so whatever percent of expansion there is will occupy less volume/travel. It also has the advantage of simpler hose routing since I can use all the stock mounting points.

Comments, opinions, dirty remarks?

KeS

[bumblebee]

That splitter in the stock set-up and the Y set-up is what I try to eliminate. My experience has been that they can trap air and can be difficult to bleed. Also, with the splitter or Y, you have more connections...more possible leaks/problems.

I believe the best set up is a dbl-banjo at the MC and separate line to each caliper.

You should use what you feel most comfortable with.

[solrflare]

The double banjo @ the MC is incredibly easy to bleed - when I put my lines on, it probably took 20 minutes of total bleeding time (for both lines).

[boner]

I have 'y' fitting a behind the headlight and two symmetrical lines running down to each caliper. They came SS from the factory so i have no plans to replace them. i would however prefer the two lines off of the MC. fewer parts, fewer seals. my least favorite, for aesthetic reasons, is the one line down and one over the fender. I like symmetry.

[jim schmidt]

You are right that it doesn't really matter. However the two long lines configuration has more routing issues and the distribution block adds two more places to leak. So I'd stick with one down and one over the fender as a general principle.

[kevin_stevens]

Originally Posted by boner

I have 'y' fitting a behind the headlight and two symmetrical lines running down to each caliper. They came SS from the factory so i have no plans to replace them. i would however prefer the two lines off of the MC. fewer parts, fewer seals. my least favorite, for aesthetic reasons, is the one line down and one over the fender. I like symmetry.

Well, it's true my bike turns right better than left, and I'm sure the asymmetric weight of the stock line setup is why, so I'll take that into account.

Tx for the feedback, guys. I'll report back once I've installed whichever lines I get.

KeS

[boner]

Originally Posted by kevin_stevens

Well, it's true my bike turns right better than left, and I'm sure the asymmetric weight of the stock line setup is why, so I'll take that into account.

Tx for the feedback, guys. I'll report back once I've installed whichever lines I get.

KeS

it's not so much the weight as it is the extra wind resistance. i hear at ~600mph it will cause the bike to veer to the right slightly. it's definatly a safety issue you should be concerned about

[serpentracer]

do the 2 line deal. it's easier to install and less hoses etc..I've read in a mag this is the prefered method of installation for racing applications. can't remember why, but it does (as they said) make a difference. I think it was something to do with being more of a direct link to the caliper. (don't quote me).