Hydraulic Hose Shortening

Procedure

1. Remove the existing hose end

   at the lever (or caliper, depending on which end you're shortening).

2. Mark the new desired length

   with tape on the hose.

3. Cut with the hose cutter

   — a single firm squeeze produces a clean square cut. Inspect the cut: should be perfectly perpendicular and not pinched.

4. Slide the compression nut

   down the hose first (so it's already on, ready to mate with the lever or caliper port).

5. Slide the olive

   (a small brass ring) down to about 5 mm from the hose end.

6. Insert the barb / hose insert

   into the open end of the hose. Use a small vise or pliers on the barb's flange — don't grab the hose. Push the barb fully in. (Some barbs are hammered in with a small drift; some thread in.)

7. Insert the hose into the lever or caliper port

   Push firmly so the hose seats fully.

8. Thread the compression nut

   into the port and tighten with a wrench (typically 5–7 Nm). The olive compresses around the hose and barb, sealing it.

9. Bleed the brake

   (4.4 or 4.5) — shortening always introduces air.