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 Performance Hose
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Performance Hose
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First, let's discuss the hose, and important ingredient in any plumbing system. In Russell's case three different types of hose are used. Russell Powerflex™ Hose is used in all of our Cycleflex™ brakelines and our Pro System oil line kits, as well as our fuel crossover lines. Powerflex utilizes a Teflon™ inner liner with a braided stainless steel outer covering. Powerflex hose is available in bulk for our Pro System I brakeline series with our extruded clear coat.
The next type of Russell hose is the Proflex™ Hose series. This hose is composed of a chlorinated polyethylene inner liner with a braided stainless steel outer covering, and can be used for fuel lines and oil lines. The CPE liner is compatible with virtually any petroleum or alcohol based fuels or lubricants, and is available in sizes -4, -6 and -8 (more about what these sizes mean in a bit).
The numbers given earlier for hose sizes offered by Russell are the AN dash numbers assigned to these hoses (AN stands for Army/Navy). These numbers refer to the nominal inside diameter of the hose expressed in 16ths of an inch. A -3 hose has a nominal ID of 3/16", a -6 hose would have a nominal ID of 6/16" or 3/8"(see chart below). The reason we say "nominal" ID is because the hose is actually slightly smaller than the size indicated to ensure a snug fit.
| AN Dash Size | Nominal Equivalent | Hose I.D. |
| 3 | 3/16" | 1/8" |
| 4 | 1/4" | 7/32" |
| 6 | 3/8" | 11/32" |
| 8 | 1/2" | 7/16" |
| 10 | 5/8" | 9/16" |
| 12 | 3/4" | 11/16" |
| 16 | 1" | 7/8" |
The stainless steel braid used on both the PowerFlex and Proflex hoses provides several benefits. First, it acts as a protective cover to protect the hose against cuts or abrasion and heat. For our Powerflex, it prevents any hose expansion due to hydraulic pressure, especially important in braking systems. Rubber brake lines expand under pressure, causing spongy brake feel, excessive lever travel and reduced braking performance. Russell stainless steel braided brake lines provide a noticeable improvement in braking performance by eliminating this hose expansion. And lastly, the "high tech" look of the stainless steel braided lines will enhance the appearance of any bike.
The third type of hose that Russell offers is our Pro system II Brakeline Series, which uses semi-rigid nylon lines available in red, yellow, blue and black. Designed for the custom bike builder, these nylon lines provide maximum flexibility and eliminate the problem of hose abrasion to painted or plated surfaces.
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