The stock Honda Africa Twin is outfitted with brake hoses that provide adequate off-road performance under normal conditions. However, on the road the feedback is somewhat numb, especially when riding aggressively. The standard brake hoses tend to swell when braking aggressively over time, or will reduce performance on long descents. Stainless steel brake lines resist expansion when the brakes get hot and provide consistent feel at the lever, allowing the rider better precision and less effort with braking.

Galfer stainless steel brake lines are constructed with high quality machined banjo fittings and bolts. The braided stainless steel is PVC-coated and available in several colors. The inner hose is PTFE Dupont Teflon.

Installation on the Africa Twin required removal of the front bodywork as well as the fuel tank. The stock brake lines run under the fuel tank to the ABS controller. Installation of brake lines is best left to a professional unless you are skilled and have the proper tools. If you install them yourself, Galfer makes the job easier with good instructions, pre-positioned banjo fittings, and labeling to simplify determining which end goes where. The orientation of the fittings is adjustable, but was not an issue during my installation. There are several hoses to replace, and all of the Galfer brake lines were the perfect length, making for a nice clean installation. The only concern is that the outer diameter of the rubber grommets provided in the kit is a little small for the stock hanger brackets, leaving the fit less snug than I would like.

With the new lines installed and bled, there’s a noticeable improvement in the feel at the lever. The amount of movement in the lever when squeezed is reduced and the pull is much firmer. Along with having an off-road background, I’m also a road racer, so I’m picky and sensitive when it comes to braking

performance. For late braking, there’s no worse feeling than a lever that pulls up against your knuckles. The Galfer stainless steel brake line-equipped Honda Africa Twin provides a nice firm feel at the lever with increased feedback, which allows aggressive braking and precise modulation. These benefits are also realized off road. With less physical effort needed for braking, your right hand and foot will thank you after a long day of riding.

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