R1100R brake, suspension, cable upgrades

[TZINK22]

I have a 1999 R1100R-SE with 18,000 miles. I would like to convert all brake lines to braided SS and new pads; change F/R shocks to Ohlins or Works; and replace/upgrade all cables. Can anyone offer advice regarding brands and sources. Should I change calipers (3 piston?) and master cylinders.

 

[PGlaves]

Not sure about brake lines - Spiegler if they make them for that bike. You just said you wanted either the Chevy or Cadillac of shocks; and cables I would get OEM unless you know a specialist that custom makes cables and does a particularly good job.

As for calipers etc. - why? What severe braking circumstances are you looking at? Unless that is an ABS bike you can already slide the tires on all but the very best pavement anyway.

 

[ANDYVH]

I agree with Paul on the selections. The brake lines will have a great impact on the brake feel. There is an adjustment you can make at the master cylinder for the brake lever that takes up a lot of the spongyness of the brake feel.

I use SBS brakes pads on my 94 R1100RS with good results and feel.

As to the calipers? No reason to change them, they are already four piston Brembo calipers. Best thing to spend money on before changing them is training for yourself. Take a class that includes braking performance training, like Lee Parks Total Control, and you'll likely find the bike has plenty of brake capability you haven't been fully using.

Our motorcycles are very rarely the limit to our riding performance, or the reason for why it doesn't seem to perform well. More riders should spend more money on themselves then on performance stuff for their ride.

 

[TZINK22]

excellent comments; helps simplify the project. thanks. tz

 

[darencs]

www.spieglerusa.com lists kit part numbers for both ABS and Non ABS r1100rs. I've been thinking about getting a set for my Roadster.

Info from their site:
Model Year Remarks Position Qty PartNumber Price
R 1100 R 94 - orig. w/o ABS Rear 1 S-BM0113 $56.95
R 1100 R 94 - orig. w/o ABS Front 3 S-BM0114 $174.95
R 1100 R 94- orig. ABS II Front/Rear 5 S-BM0115 $217.95

I switched to Wilbers shocks last year and love them.