Complete Guide to Shimano SM-BH59 and SM-BH90 Brake Hoses: Compatibility for Road, Gravel, and MTB

When it comes to maintaining or upgrading your Shimano hydraulic braking system, selecting the right brake hose is crucial to ensure top performance. Shimano’s brake hose lineup includes the SM-BH59 series for standard performance and the SM-BH90 series for higher power and more demanding riding styles. This comprehensive guide covers the details of both the SM-BH59 and SM-BH90 brake hoses, including their compatibility with Shimano’s road, gravel, mountain, and lifestyle bike braking systems.

Shimano SM-BH90 Brake Hoses: High-Powered Braking for Road, Gravel, and MTB

The SM-BH90 series is renowned for its high power and rigidity, making it the ideal choice for competitive riders who demand strong and reliable braking performance, particularly in challenging terrain. The SM-BH90 hoses are commonly used in Shimano's top-tier brake systems for road, gravel, and mountain biking.

Types of Shimano SM-BH90 Brake Hoses

1. SM-BH90-JK-SSR

   • Connection: Straight - Straight
   • Rigidity: High Power
   • Compatibility: Works across a wide range of Shimano’s high-end braking systems, including road and gravel bikes.

2. SM-BH90-SBM

   • Connection: Straight - Banjo
   • Rigidity: High Power
   • Compatibility: Primarily used in mountain biking systems where higher installation flexibility is required.

3. SM-BH90-SBLS

   • Connection: Straight - Banjo
   • Rigidity: High Power
   • Compatibility: Found mostly in MTB and off-road systems.

4. SM-BH90-SBS

   • Connection: Straight - Banjo
   • Rigidity: High Power
   • Compatibility: Common in high-performance MTB systems but limited in road/gravel use.

5. SM-BH90-SB

   • Connection: Straight - Banjo
   • Rigidity: High Power
   • Compatibility: High-end mountain biking setups.

6. SM-BH90-SS

   • Connection: Straight - Straight
   • Rigidity: High Power
   • Compatibility: Suitable for both mountain and some lifestyle bikes.

Compatibility of SM-BH90 Brake Hoses with Road, Gravel, and MTB Systems

Here is a detailed compatibility breakdown of the SM-BH90 brake hoses across Shimano’s road, gravel, and MTB brake systems:

Key Shimano Brake Systems Compatible with SM-BH90 Hoses

• ST-R9270 / BR-R9270: Shimano’s top-of-the-line road braking system, compatible with the SM-BH90-JK-SSR for elite-level performance.
• ST-RX820 / BR-RX820: Designed for gravel riders, these brakes offer rugged reliability with the power of the SM-BH90-JK-SSR.
• ST-RX810 / BR-RX810: A strong option for gravel and off-road cycling, compatible with the SM-BH90-JK-SSR for high-power braking.

Shimano SM-BH59 Brake Hoses: Standard Rigidity for Road, Gravel, and Lifestyle Riding

While the SM-BH90 is designed for high-powered, performance-oriented braking, the SM-BH59 series offers standard rigidity, making it ideal for everyday road, gravel, and lifestyle bikes. The SM-BH59 hoses are commonly found in Shimano’s entry- to mid-level brake systems, providing dependable performance at a more accessible price point.

Types of Shimano SM-BH59 Brake Hoses

1. SM-BH59-J-SS

   • Connection: Straight - Straight
   • Rigidity: Standard
   • Compatibility: Ideal for mid-range hydraulic systems, typically used for recreational and commuter bikes.

2. SM-BH59-JK-SS (MTB)

   • Connection: Straight - Straight
   • Rigidity: Standard
   • Compatibility: Suitable for mountain bikes in the mid-tier range.

3. SM-BH59-JK-SS (ROAD)

   • Connection: Straight - Straight
   • Rigidity: Standard
   • Compatibility: Commonly used in road bike systems.

4. SM-BH59-JK-SSR

   • Connection: Straight - Straight
   • Rigidity: Standard
   • Compatibility: Used in standard Shimano road and gravel braking systems.

5. SM-BH59-SB

   • Connection: Straight - Banjo
   • Rigidity: Standard
   • Compatibility: Ideal for gravel and lifestyle setups that require tighter installation.

6. SM-BH59-SB-J

   • Connection: Straight - Banjo
   • Rigidity: Standard
   • Compatibility: Similar to SM-BH59-SB but designed for a broader range of systems.

Compatibility of SM-BH59 Brake Hoses with Road, Gravel, and Lifestyle Systems

Here is a detailed compatibility breakdown of the SM-BH59 brake hoses across Shimano’s road, gravel, and lifestyle braking systems:

Key Shimano Brake Systems Compatible with SM-BH59 Hoses

• ST-R785 / BR-RS805 and BR-RS785: Compatible with the SM-BH59-J-SS, these systems offer reliable braking for road cyclists looking for consistent performance.
• ST-RS505 / BR-RS505: This system is compatible with the SM-BH59-JK-SSR, a solid choice for those who want performance without the higher price tag of the SM-BH90 series.

Conclusion

Choosing the right brake hose for your Shimano hydraulic braking system is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and safety. Whether you need the high-power and rigidity of the SM-BH90 series or the standard performance of the SM-BH59 series, understanding compatibility with your specific brake system is essential.

For riders focused on performance, the SM-BH90-JK-SSR offers unparalleled braking power, ideal for road, gravel, and mountain biking. Meanwhile, the SM-BH59 hoses provide a more affordable option without compromising reliability, making them perfect for recreational and lifestyle riders.

By selecting the appropriate brake hose for your riding style and bike setup, you can ensure consistent, powerful, and safe braking on any terrain.