Lube makes it so much better...

[SmartDrug]

...Perverts.   Seriously though, I removed my brake and clutch levers, lubed the pivot points as well as the cables, made a HUGE difference in terms of brake and clutch feel.  I've yet to upgrade to the stainless lines, but I know what people are talking about now.  Take 30 minutes and do this if you can, especially those who put the bike up for winter storage, it's certainly worth the time invested.
-Brian

[Bluebellylint]

Thanks for the advice. what do you use to lube, the graphite stuff? I just replaced my clutch cable dose anyone know if it needs to be lubed when new or is it good for awhile?

[SmartDrug]

White Lithium Grease, I'm not sure what you're supposed to use, but lithium is pretty much a universal lubricant and it worked very well.

[makenzie71]

This is actually something you're supposed to do twice a year.

Grease on the joints.

For cables, put a small funnel over one end and tape them together.  The fill the funnel with WD40 and set between your handlebar and lever.  Let it soak all the way down.  If it's not dripping out the other side by the time all the oil is drained, add more.

[that_guy]

they make cable lube specifically for this..  You can of course use other things but i'd stick with the cable care kits i have seen...

[Mandres]

I wouldn't use WD40.  It's not a good long-term lubricant and could end up causing more problems than it solves.  You can't go wrong with lithium grease, but getting it all the way down the cable might be tricky. 

[RedShift]

... hence the reason that graphite is recommended for this application.

Question: What about the throttle cables?  Anybody lubricate those puppies?