I'm slowly going through my '99 1200-S. Thanks to all for your thoughts in my last thread on possible tire choices; very useful info!

Now on to the brake lines and pads. The pads and the lines are original. The bike now has 19,000 miles.

1) Brake lines. The brake lines look fine, but they are 20 years old. I've not heard of an OEM line fail, but maybe they do? My gut says yes change them, just out of an abundance of caution. If I do I'll go SS braided lines. The brake system will get flushed if I keep the OEM lines.
Q1 Would you replace the OEM lines, based solely on the safety factor? (Those SS braided lines look so much better than the black rubber OEM's.)
Q2__Suggestions on good aftermarket SS lines?

2) Brake pads. I am going to replace them regardless of condition. I'm not a racer and don't ride super aggressively. Dustless pads would be a nice feature.
Q1 What pads do you recommend and why?

Thanks again for all the help & advice!

 

I had a bad experience with some cheap pads last summer. The first time I rode in the rain I barely slowed down. So factory or more expensive.
aftermarket lines will look just that. But I had some lines I could see swell when I hit the pedal. So I had to.
J&P has a good selection, make sure they are coated if you get SS braided. The uncoated eat paint.

 

1. I would replace your stock brake lines for two reasons: A. there is a possible safety issue, in that they soften over time, giving a more spongey feel and have occasionally been known to fail; B. braided lines provide better feel while braking and transfer more of your squeeze to the pads. I've upgraded many of my bikes over the years for that good reason alone. There are plenty of brands available, but I have been very happy with Goodridge and HEL, both of whom will sell you a kit for your bike, of suitable length lines plus new banjo bolts and seals.

2. EBC, why, because they are what I'm currently using!

 

+1 for EBC pads. I’ve never used them on a bike, but I will when it’s time to upgrade pads. I HAVE however had lots of experience with them from tuners built to race to lifted trucks that meant for off-road...nothing but great experiences and results.

 

I've used EBC pads on my trucks for years, best pads I've ever found. Great braking and long life. Also got some EBC HH pads for the bike, but have not installed them. My brake lines are 28 years old and seem fine, but I'm the original owner and bike has been kept indoors and maintained. I do have a front line from Magnum Shielding to install, but I'm pondering getting a Wilwood caliper for the front and just upgrade the whole thing at once.

John

 

You obviously have some safety concerns, or you wouldn't be asking the questions.

Brake lines aren't that expensive or difficult to replace.

I say swap them out.