How To Do Brake Maintenance On A Motorcycle
Stop! Read this before attempting to do any brake maintenance on your motorcycle.
Boundless Rider knows that being able to stop your motorcycle is just as important as being able to start it! Brake maintenance on a motorcycle is essential for safe riding. Here are tools to get started on brake maintenance:
- Allen Keys
- Torx Bits
- Screw Drivers
- Socket Wrench
- Flare Nut Wrench
- Pliers (Regular/Needle Nose)
- Clear Hose For Bleeder Nut
- Catch Can
- Optional: Auto bleeder
Here are the steps to perform basic brake maintenance on a motorcycle:
- Inspect the brake pads: Check the thickness of the brake pads. If they are worn down to 1-2mm or less, they will need to be replaced. Never cheap out on brake pads, the better material, the longer the life, the better the stopping power.
- Check the brake rotors: Inspect the brake rotors for any grooves or cracks. If there are any, they will need to be replaced. Just like pads, never cheap out on rotors. Stainless steel rotors are great for anti-corrosion.
- Check the brake fluid level: Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir. If it is low, fill it to the recommended level. Brake fluid can also get dirty due to leaking brake cylinders or master cylinders. Replace dirty fluid as well.
- Bleed the brake system: If the brake lever feels spongy, it may be due to air in the brake lines. Bleed the brake system to remove any air. This can be done by cracking the bleeder valve at the wheel cylinder. There are vacuum operated tools, but gravity also works to bleed out any air. Make sure the master cylinder doesn’t run dry of fluid.
- Clean the brake calipers: Use a brake cleaner to clean the brake calipers, pads, and rotors. Be careful not to get any brake cleaner on the paint or plastic parts of the motorcycle. Wear safety glasses, brake cleaner hurts when it gets in your eye.
- Lubricate the brake components: Use brake grease to lubricate the brake components, including the caliper pins, brake pads, and slide pins. This will stop brakes from getting squeaky.
- Test the brakes: After completing the brake maintenance, test the brakes to make sure they are working properly. Brake lever and pedal should also be tested for firmness and responsiveness. Start off riding slow and build up speed while testing the brakes.
NOTE: It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for brake maintenance, as different motorcycle models may have slightly different procedures. If you are unsure or uncomfortable performing brake maintenance, it’s best to take your motorcycle to a professional mechanic for servicing.