by Colin Trickett

Created on: December 13, 2011   Last Updated: December 17, 2011

A motorcycle is reliant on cables for many functions including the brakes front and rear. It is vitally important to keep these cables lubricated and in good order.

If a motorbike has been stored for some time or not regularly used the efficiency of its cables may not be at their best and it will become essential to lubricate them periodically so they perform at their maximum function. A motorcycle rider’s life may depend on the brake cables functioning correctly.

If the brake lever is hard to pull or the brakes are slow to respond to the pressure applied to the brake lever it is time to lubricate the cables and to check the brakes, cables and their pads for wear.

Assuming all is in order with the brake pads the problem will undoubtedly be with the cable. You’ll now need to check for any fraying. If the cable is frayed at the ends it will need to be replaced as the cable could fail in an emergency.

If nothing apparent is wrong with the braking system and the brake lever is hard to operate the cable can be lubricated with a drop of grease applied to the exposed ends of the cable protruding from the insulation. When applied you’ll need to operate the brakes several times to ensure the grease moves along the cable, as the grease moves along the cable the brakes should be easier to operate. Also grease the brake lever pivot as this too could be lacking lubrication.

If the motorcycle has been stored for a very long time, the cable may be seized and it may be necessary to remove the cable from the bike completely.  This is a fairly simple operation and is in the capability of the novice mechanic and all that is required usually is a screwdriver or small spanner. Once the cable has been removed one will need to place it in a suitable waterproof container and soaked overnight in a WD40 type solution. When the cable is freed off it can be re-fitted to the motorbike. Once the cable has been refitted the cable will need to be greased as above.

Motorbikes are involved in 40 percent move accidents than cars and it is paramount to have your bike in good working order with a 100 percent efficient brakes. With this in mind brake cables should be checked for fraying and greased every couple of thousand miles. 

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