Beware of Aftermarket Cables - Buy OEM!!

[bill14224]

I just replaced my clutch cable with a Suzuki OEM cable and it was only $13.61.  Not only is it better, it's also $5 CHEAPER! 

The old clutch cable turned out to be aftermarket.  It pulled out of the little anchor that connects it to the clutch lever.  It didn't break.  There was no wear, it just pulled out because it was never crimped on well enough in the first place.  They are not the same, my friends.  The OEM cable pulls easier, the sheath is heavier, the anchors are beefier, and it has a rubber cover on the adjuster at the sprocket cover.  It is obviously superior to the aftermarket cable that wasn't frayed, rusty, or not lubed, it just let go.

I did some checking and if you add-up the cost of a clutch, throttle, and choke cable, going with OEM costs $57.34.  If you buy Motion Pro cables it comes to $52.08.  OEM tach and speedo cables come to $30.24.  Motion Pro tach and speedo cables come to $26.92.

I know there are some aftermarket parts out there that are better and cheaper than OEM, but when it comes to cables, this is one of those times when going with OEM makes a lot of sense. 

[The Buddha]

$5 for inners ... my guys do it that cheap ... but need outer and inner = 15 bucks. That actually re used the stock ends, and on my virago after 3 inners in 1 year, I figured the end was the problem. It was tearing the thing.
Cool.
Buddha.

[sledge]

I have lost count of the number of times the lozenge has pulled off the end of a brake or clutch cable on me and my view based on experience is that OEM is no more reliable than pattern.......When it happens its a total ball-ache, much like a snapped spring-link (but thats another story eh Jack?  ) Wise bikers always carry a couple of these in their toolwrap for "a get you home fix"

https://feked.com/shop/index.php?productID=1607

[beRto]

Wise bikers always carry a couple of these in their toolwrap for "a get you home fix"

https://feked.com/shop/index.php?productID=1607

Great idea! Thanks for sharing! 

Although for long rides, I think I will continue to bring along a spare clutch cable.