Rear Brake - 2000 R1100RS

[mhallman]

The other day I noticed my back brake was a bit spongy on my ride in to work (at 6:30 a.m. and 23 degrees, it didn't strike me as too bad). On my way home, the sponginess seemed more pronounced. Obviously I switched to primarily using the front brake. I bled the brakes in June and everything has been working fine since - this came out of the blue. I checked around the brake line (original) for a pinhole leak and couldn't find one. The fluid level is still good. When I initially put pressure on the back brake it still gets some purchase, but then continues to depress further. Pumping the brakes helps. ABS lights show no problems.

Any suggestions would be a big help. Thanks in advance.

Separate question: I'm liking the idea of changing out the brake lines for Spiegler lines. On their website, it states the lines are for non-ABS bikes (which mine has). Is this actually an issue? It said the lines were good for my make and model...

 

[jagarra]

Spiegler will have the lines for bikes with and without ABS. ABS requires more lines. They will also make variations in length if you happen to install bar backs or other handlebar mods.
When I installed bar backs after I installed a new set a lines about a month before, I just advised them which line had to be longer and by how much and they supplied exactly what was needed.

I would replace the OEM lines before the riding season starts, just for safety's sake, they may be swelling internally causing the sponginess. You mentioned you bled the system in June, seems any trapped air would have made it's way out by now. The only other time I have experienced this condition was when fluid was being pushed past the seal on the master cylinder due to pitting.

I would start with the lines since that is a must do mod, then see if the issue goes away or persists.

 

[k7gle]

They will also make variations in length if you happen to install bar backs or other handlebar mods.

My 2000RT has bar backs and the "regular" Spieglers fit just fine.

 

[gsaddict]

Replace those lines before you injure yourself!

The OE rubber brake lines on R,K,F model years '93 -04 have known failure issues.
They either suddenly balloon on hard braking causing 100% loss of brakes and/or the interior deteriorates clogging banjo fittings causing the calipers to lock up as well as causing issues within the ABS module.

You choice of Spiegler lines is a good one. In the 30+ sets I have installed I've never had any issues. I use their product exclusively. I really like the fact that the banjos are indexable.
When ordering advise them if you have any bar risers and the height to determine front master line length.

 

[snookers]

My 2000RT has bar backs and the "regular" Spieglers fit just fine.

I had the same experience

 

[jagarra]

It may work on an RT but if one goes to Bob's BMW here is what they say for use on an RS model.

https://www.bobsbmw.com/store/product/ss-brake-hose-r1150rs-with-barbax

 

[gsaddict]

When you order from Spiegler - call them. Give them the part # from the website and tell them what height the risers are.
Typically they add 1-1.5" to the front master line. (at no cost)
Easy peasy.

Just a note: stock length may appear fine with some risers but should be carefully checked when turned full lock.