Author Topic: 2002 vs. 2000 front caliper  (Read 2295 times)

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Offline Wayfast1500

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2002 vs. 2000 front caliper
« on: August 31, 2010, 08:27:08 PM »
I was told I should put a 2002 front brake system on my 2000 to get rid of the mushy brakes.  While I was on eBay last night the 2002 front calipers said they fit '99-03.  Can I just get a '02 front master and keep my caliper or was this seller misinformed? 

Offline Danger4u2

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Re: 2002 vs. 2000 front caliper
« Reply #1 on: September 01, 2010, 12:39:21 AM »
Mushy brakes are most times,
1 air in the line.  fix- bleed brakes again until no air
2 stock brake line. fix- replace with braided stainless steel line.
If your bent on changing the front master cylinder and plan on using
hand guards go to the Honda master cylinder.  The
banjo bolt comes off the back side and it will clear hand guard mounts.
I would start with the cheap way, make sure the brakes are bled properly.
If that does not fix it change to the steel line they don't flex or swell.
Here's how I did mine, it's on a 500 though, toward the end of the thread.
http://www.kxriders.com/forums/index.php/topic,4784.0.html
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Offline don46

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Re: 2002 vs. 2000 front caliper
« Reply #2 on: September 01, 2010, 03:46:14 AM »
Kawasaki's have had notoriously second rate brakes, that is when compared to Hondas. The reality is that when you do as David suggest Kawi brakes are good, and the newer stuff with the "Honda" routed brake hose and a stainless line make them real good. if you still feel like you don't have enough braking you could go with a oversized rotor, different material brake pads, of course the pads come with a price, shorter life, more wear on your rotor. one thing that is often overlooked is the disc itself, if it gets glazed the brakes don't work as well.

I guess the other question I would ask, do you need more brake? My son used to complain about brakes and the calipers were cool, so he obviously wasn't using what he had. After a moto the front and rear calipers should be hot, if your getting into corners carrying alot of speed they will be hot hot.
Live today, for tomorrow may never come

Offline Wayfast1500

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Re: 2002 vs. 2000 front caliper
« Reply #3 on: September 01, 2010, 04:16:02 AM »
I needed a master cylinder rebuild kit because the seals were junk (front had a big rip in it).  Before I pulled it apart I tried to bleed the brakes with no difference, adjusted the lever and they still went to the bar.  I heard the '02 brakes were improved so I wasnt sure, if my new master cylinder doesnt make a difference I'll go to a stainless line.