Original brake lines and caliper 86 GS550ES getting harder to brake

[Corvette95]

Hi all, this forum has really helped me get my original 86 GS550ES in top shape. It is finally running great after another member helped me with a carb issue that 6 dealers couldn’t fix but here is my question. My bike is all original, I have ordered the few parts to keep it up from the Netherlands to stay with OE. So With the main issues on the bike fixed I have been putting some miles on it, no problems BUT the brakes front and rear seems to require more pressure than I remember ( my other bike is a 17 ZX10RR) , yeah, I know my GS is no where near that. I’ve had this bike for 25 years but think the brake lines could be an issue or the front and rear master cylinder and then there is the option, it could be me and they are just fine...they work front and rear . I have flushed the system several times over the years, did have a seized rear caliper about 6 years ago, fixed that. How can I test the master cylinders and anyone have a source of all OE brake lines ( no longer available) if aftermarket I need direct fit and black rubber I found a stainless set. Are there caliper rebuild kits? Or should I shut up and ride it??? Thanks

[fastbysuzuki]

Well if your still riding on the original 13 year old brake lines then it is time to change them, you can get stainless lines that are covered by black plastic sheaf so they look like the rubber Oem ones and are a great upgrade.
As for the braking capability only you will know if they are not performing as they should, get both wheels off the floor and check if they are spinning free and the callipers are not binding ( there will be a very slight contact with the pads in normal operation) if they are ok and you have no leaks then nothing likely is wrong.
but for safety's sake change those lines!
yes there are kits to rebuild both master cylinders and calipers and if you are changing the lines then it would be good if you overhauled the whole system.
the general feeling is use Oem. Personally I have used tourmax kits and have had no problem with those.

[greg78gs750]

i know you are going for a 100% oem resto here (though i'm not entirely sure why, these bikes are never gonna be worth it, with the exception of the cooley's but whatever) buuut you should really consider the stainless option. With black sheaths you will barely be able to tell the difference from 3 feet away, and the improvement will be....noticeable. Like your black chrome thread, i'm sure you're not interested in the "compromise"

[salty_monk]

The black ones don't really look any different from stock from more than 2 feet away...

[hannibal]

The manual says to replace the stock rubber lines every two years. You might be a little over due.