New
£24.99
Shimano SM-BH90-SBM Disc Brake Hose 1000mm Silver/Black WITH Banjo Bolt
TS17
Brake Cables & Hosing
Cables and housing are the nervous system of mechanical brakes. Stainless steel inner cables with coated housing give the best feel and longevity. For hydraulic disc brakes, braided hoses (Goodridge, Hope) upgrade the standard rubber hoses with firmer lever feel. Shimano Optislick and Jagwire Elite are the go-to cable sets. Cable replacement is basic maintenance that dramatically improves shifting and braking feel — fresh cables are one of the most cost-effective upgrades on any road bike.
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Buying Guide
Road Brake Cable & Hose Guide
Mechanical Brake Cables
Inner cables: stainless steel is the minimum standard. PTFE-coated stainless (Shimano Optislick, Jagwire Elite) reduces friction and resists corrosion. Housing: compressionless brake housing is stiffer than standard coiled housing, giving a firmer lever feel. Jagwire Road Pro and Road Elite sets include matched inner cables, housing, ferrules, and end caps. Gore Ride cables use a sealed housing system that stays smooth longer. For vintage bikes, standard 1.5mm stainless inners fit all traditional road callipers.
Hydraulic Hoses
Shimano SM-BH90 hoses are the standard for road hydraulic brakes. SRAM uses its own hose standard. Replacement hoses come in standard lengths and are cut to fit — you'll need the correct barb-and-olive fittings for your calliper. Braided stainless hoses (Goodridge, HEL) replace rubber hoses for a firmer lever feel — popular upgrade for riders who find stock hydraulic brakes too soft. Hose routing through the frame can make replacement fiddly — some bikes require handlebar or calliper removal to route new hoses.
When to Replace
Mechanical cables: replace when shifting or braking feels sluggish, cables show fraying at the anchor bolt or head, or housing has visible kinks. Annual replacement is good practice for regular riders. Hydraulic hoses: replace if there's visible damage, fluid weeping at connections, or a spongy lever feel that persists after bleeding. Most hydraulic hoses last 3-5 years before the rubber degrades. Braided hoses last longer but the internal liner can deteriorate.
