Brake Cables & Hosing

Are brake hoses brand-specific?

Yes — hoses are the link between your lever and caliper, and each brand does them differently. Shimano uses BH90 (braided) and BH59 (rubber) hoses with specific olive and barb insert fittings. SRAM uses a different hose diameter and compression fitting system. Hope and Magura have their own standards. You cannot use Shimano hose on SRAM brakes or vice versa — the fittings, bore diameter and fluid compatibility are all different. Aftermarket hoses from Goodridge and Jagwire offer braided stainless steel options within the correct fitting specs for each brand.

What length hose do I need?

Hoses are sold in set lengths or by the metre. Front brakes need roughly 750-900mm depending on bike size and bar width. Rear brakes need 1400-1700mm depending on frame routing (internal vs external). Too long is better than too short — excess hose creates a gentle loop that allows full bar rotation without pulling. Too short and the hose will kink or pull the lever when you turn the bars.

What do mechanical disc brakes use?

Mechanical disc brakes (TRP Spyre, Avid BB7) use standard brake cables and housing. Jagwire, Shimano and SRAM all make compatible sets. Compressionless housing (Jagwire Mountain Pro) reduces cable flex and improves lever feel on mechanical systems. If your mechanical brakes feel spongy, new cables and housing often fix it before you need to consider upgrading to hydraulic brakes.

When should a hose be replaced?

Hydraulic hoses are durable and rarely need replacing, so the triggers are specific: a cut, kinked or cracked hose, or brake fluid weeping from the fittings — typically after a crash or a botched trim. Rubber hoses (Shimano BH59, older SRAM) can also swell over time, making the lever feel vague. Braided hoses (BH90, Goodridge) resist expansion and maintain a firmer lever feel long-term.