Spongy Brakes?

[dessy]

I thought my brakes were OK until I recently rode a couple of other late model sports bikes. When I jumped back on my Firestrom ('01) the front brake felt like a sponge and totally lacked the firm and responsive feel of the other two bikes (04 Buell XB12R and a 03 GSX-R 750). Is this normal or should I get the brakes checked out? Will braided lines improve the feel (firmness I guess?) and does the level of improvement really justify the expense? Any feedback appreciated.

Dessy.

[RQ]

Dessy,

Noticed the same thing on mine over the weekend, I have braided lines, I'm going to bleed mine this evening, reckon there could be air in it. When did you change the fluid last ?

[Orange Robbie]

Just changed from a CBR 600 to a Storm, bike I test rode mentioned spongy brakes to dealer, was told needed 4K service + brakes bled @ same service.
Running mine in + Lo + behold, spongy brakes @ front end, seem to be bedding in a bit now after 350 miles, but still nowhere near as sharp as 3 yr old CBR 600. Rear brake seems more effective, can actually feel the retardation when used.
As a side issue, mate has just bought a brand new spanker Buell X-1S Lighting, with the rim mounted front brake, was told 1k before they start working!

[Trojan]

I have only had my VTR for a short time but I can honestly say the brakes are shite. Fine if you want to pansy about but if you want some bite upgrade the pads and put some good dot 4 with braided lines on.

[captainkirk11]

Same thing....I took out a SV1000 in Jan and realized my fronts were shite. Put on braded lines and EBC HH pads.
Made a f*ck up outside Rye this morning, blasting past car when car came out from lay by, I managed to lock the front wheel momentarily so I' m convinced my fronts are ok.....pity I had to throw the pants away though !!!!!

[dessy]

Same thing....I took out a SV1000 in Jan and realized my fronts were shite. Put on braded lines and EBC HH pads.
Made a f*ck up outside Rye this morning, blasting past car when car came out from lay by, I managed to lock the front wheel momentarily so I' m convinced my fronts are ok.....pity I had to throw the pants away though !!!!!

Poor brakes (compared to the latest sports bikes at least) seems to be a Firestorm trait then. Interested in feedback as to how much difference braided lines actually make? Is it a substantial difference? Same question for aftermarket brake pads?

[iggy1966]

I put braided hoses on mine over winter and must say that there was a marked difference in the stopping power, still running the standard pads at the moment. Worth doing Dessy.

Ian