Brake cables.?

paulc33

Ok guys really need your advise

Need to replace my brake cables as seen better days what do people use and recommend? Been looking at dura ace cables are they any good will I notice anh difference?

Also don't want to really remove my bar tape as only replace a few months back. So can you replace the cables with the old outers in situ ??

All and any advise greatly taken as first time replacing cables on my road bike.

Oh and it's an 6600 ultegra set up I have.

Thanks

crankycrank

Yup, you can use the Dura-Ace as a good, durable cable. I have also used Jagwires best version which are just as good and seem to be a little more resistant to corrosion. Actually, most brake cables you find at the LBS will stop you about the same but I have had some cheaper no-name types break and corrode in short order so I stay with what I know works. And yes, as long as the outers are in good condition you can just replace the cables and without removing the bar tape. It can be a little difficult sometimes trying to thread the new cable through the levers and into the housing so good to have a torch nearby.

paulc33

That's for the advise il have a look at the jagwires too then.
Looks like this week will be attempting to replace cables and keep the old outers for now!
Should I try cleaning the outers at all or adding any sort of lubricant to help?
ie WD40??

crankycrank

paulc33 wrote:

Should I try cleaning the outers at all or adding any sort of lubricant to help? ie WD40??

As long as they're not cracked, kinked, gummed up or rusted they should be OK. You can use some electrical contact cleaner or anything that is not too harsh and dries fairly fast to squirt through the housings to get them clean. Some like WD-40 or other lubricants for cables but unless they're the sealed type (Your 6600 cables are not) I like to keep them dry. Any wet lubricant tends to become a gooey glop after awhile and causes the cables to stick.

ADIHEAD

If you're not doing the outers, I'd just get some stock Shimano brake cable. Not worth the extra cash if you're not doing the outers IMHO Must admit I've used both and can't notice any difference to be honest, Durace outers look better though!

northpole

I have dura ace cables on my bike - they have lasted the best part of 4 years without stretching/ corrosion. Bear in mind that I use my bike most days for commuting in London which is a pretty harsh environment for gear and brake cables with constant stopping and starting. Just bought a new set of both today for fitting at a service next weekend. Don't see the point in trying out others as these have proven themselves beyond ant reasonable expectation I may have had.

Can't say the same for brake pads, cassettes or chains!!

Peter

paulc33

Thanks guys everyone seems to say the dura ace cables are good so il be buying them!
My stock cables have been come corroded with in a couple of yrs so hope these will last longer!

Il keep the outers and next time I change the bar tape il up date the outers too!