Brake Master Cylinder: Rebuild or replace?

So, I am in the middle of changing my tires out and figure while I am working on the front end of the bike, I might as well address the brakes.

I know that stainless steel lines are a major improvement so I have plans to get those. No lecture needed there.

But, the master cylinder on my Seca is located under the headlight stay and is rather inconveniently located. Not that this is a massive problem but, I also notice a lot of people changing it out for a handlebar mounted MC.

My question is: Should I swap the MC out with a handle bar mounted one if I don't plan on handle bar swaps in the future? Or should I just rebuild the one on the bike as it has enough oomph to do the job when the SS lines are fitted up?

 

Just rebuild it. It's a lot cheaper than buying a new one (if you can find one).

 

If you run stainless lines from the brake line splitter "log" under the master cylinder you will always have the option to go with a bar-mounted MC in the future - Len (Chacal) has all 4 (two long, two short). If you decide to go with a bar-mounted MC, Len (Chacal) has the proper line to go from the MC to the "log" (but you will also need to deal with the existing brake handle pivot mount on the right-hand controls and the fluid level electronics). Swapping handlebars should not be a problem either way as long as the shape of the new bar is not excessively different than the OEM bar and the wires/cables/hoses fit.

 

I am considering going to the handlebar mount M/C as well, the rebuild kit for the XJ750 is $74 from Len so it is not that much cheaper to rebuild. The only one I saw that Len had was an OEM rebuild kit, is there an aftermarket rebuild kit?

 

you might try google. but you might also run into problems of things not being right. and that could be some considerable down time trying to get the right stuff. specially if you end up ordering from one them companies that have piss poor customer service. and never answer there phones or emails.

with chacal. you know your getting the right stuff.

 

In answer to your actual question, the stock master cylinder is fine, capacity ("oomph") wise, for doing its job even with upgraded brakes. But it does have all of its other location related drawbacks.

If you decide to swap it for a handlebar-mounted master cylinder, keep a couple of things in mind: Be sure the replacement is for a dual-disc bike as well, and remember a "Maxim" M/C will likely have a much different angle in relation to the handlebar.

 

Yeah, I think I am going to rebuild the existing one. I am on the look out for new stainless lines as is because I am sure mine are on the skids. Plus, the calipers need a run through too.

I was shocked how poor the braking was when I took the bike out for a test run today after the new tires were on. The rear shoes are fine and have plenty of meat on them but I am sure I can adjust the travel before grabbing. It took a long throw to get the rear to do anything.

The front rotors just need to be emory clothed from a glazed surface. And the pads need the same treatment. They have plenty of life left in them too. Then it is simply getting the MC and Calipers functioning properly.

The sad thing is that the only frame of reference I have for stoping on a motorcycle was my old YZF600R. That bike stopped GOOD!