Upgrade: Steel-Braided Brake and Clutch Lines (Galfer): Part 1

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With help from my incredibly supportive Honda Motorcycle Dealer, we reached out to Galfer, hoping they had already created a CB1100EX upgrade "kit" to replace the OEM rubber clutch and brake lines. Rubber lines degrade from UV exposure, heat cycling, and age — they swell microscopically under pressure and eventually crack. Braided stainless lines resist all of that, so performance stays consistent for years longer, possibly forever, if properly manufactured. Although Galfer recognizes that the CB1100 had a limited production run, they admire the motorcycle. They agreed to create a kit for zealots like me. Here is how it worked:

Step 1: We sent Galfer a brand-new set of OEM clutch and brake lines for my CB1100EX.

Step 2: They created a set of steel-braided lines after examining the OEM lines.

Step 3: They shipped a set of orange prototype lines.

Step 4: Sam (Parts Guy), Mike (Service Mechanic), and I partially disassembled my motorcycle and simulated a line installation, using zip ties to connect the prototype lines to the actual lines.

Step 5: Once "installed," we took pictures and returned them to Galfer, along with instructions on what needed to be adjusted to ensure everything works properly. Two of their prototype lines were too long.

Step 6: We removed the prototype lines and returned them to Galfer. We reassembled my motorcycle.

Step 7: Galfer will ship the production set of lines in 30 days, following our instructions and using the color and connectors I selected. They will also add the custom "set" to their part's catalog and make it available to their distributors.

Other than longevity, what I expect to gain from this exercise:

• A more direct, linear response when I squeeze the brake or clutch lever
  
• Better heat management of brake fluid, which reduces the risk of vapor lock and brake fade during aggressive or prolonged braking
  
• A more consistent riding experience (rubber behaves differently when it is very cold or very hot outside)
  

I took some pictures while we were "installing" the prototype lines, along with a couple of shots of the mechanic's area, where the wrenching, cursing, and magic all happen. I hope you enjoy them. I will publish Part 2 once the lines are installed.

Mechanic’s Area



Prototype Cables





Staging Motorcycle



Painful Tank Removal







“Installing" Prototype Cables