Bike accessory advice: Improving the brakes

MCN expert Chris Dabbs is here to answer any questions you have on anything bike related.

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Q. I want to uprate the brakes on my 2002 Suzuki GSF600 Bandit.

I have been advised to get braided lines, but I was wondering if there was anything else I could do like transplant some discs from an R1?

Leo Cox-Casey, e-mail

A. Braided lines will firm up the lever feel and cost about £90 from Banditmania in Lincoln (01522-871600).

They also recommend switching to SBS sintered pads which offer improved grip without eating into the discs. They cost £21 per pair.

You will also get more out of your brakes if you firm up the front suspension. A set of stiffer Hagon springs will cost £58.50 and going from ten weight to 15 weight fork oil with firm up the damping for £6.80.

With less dive and some travel left when you are hard on the stoppers you will find your braking improved.