Motorcycle Brake Maintenance

Without the ability to slow down and stop your motorcycle within a reasonable timeframe, it’s impossible for you to safely operate it. That’s why it’s so important that you take steps to maintain your motorcycle’s brakes. If you’re not sure where to start, check out this guide from the experts at Moroney's Harley-Davidson®.

Basic Rules And Safety

Always perform maintenance in a well-ventilated and well-lit space. Wearing proper eye and skin protection is also important. While the information in this article will apply to almost all motorcycles, you should also consult your owner’s manual for information specific to your model. 

Pulsing Brakes

While older motorcycles used what were called drum brakes, most modern motorcycle models now use more efficient disc brakes. The trade-off is that disc brakes wear down more quickly than drum brakes, especially if you are doing a lot of hard braking. This can lead to the discs in your brakes becoming misshapen and create a “pulsing” feeling when you squeeze your motorcycle’s brakes. However, this same pulsing can also be caused by sticking calipers, sliders, or pistons. If your brakes start pulsing, make sure you understand the source of the issue before you try to fix it. 

Squealing Brakes

If you hear a squealing sound when you use your motorcycle’s brakes, inspect the brake pads using a flashlight. To get an even closer look, you can try removing the brake pads themselves. In most cases, the squealing will be caused by the brake pads vibrating in their calipers. This can be resolved by removing the pads and rotor(s) and sanding them down with a 120-grit emery cloth. Finish up by applying an anti-squeal product to the back of the brake pads. 

Wearing Out Quickly

If you notice a pattern where your brake pads wear down more quickly than they should, the most likely cause is a sticking caliper piston or slider. This sort of problem can be fixed by cleaning the slides and pivot points and then lubricating them. You should then apply a high-temperature silicone brake grease. Depending upon your model, you may have to deal with special considerations like floating calipers that will need to be removed, so check your owner’s manual for more information. 

Bleeding Brakes

Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, making it less effective at doing its job. That’s why it’s so important that you replace your brake fluid at least once a year. Keep in mind that spilled brake fluid can damage your bike and its finish, so lay down a protective covering and be ready to wipe up any spills.  

For more information on motorcycle brake maintenance or to shop our selection of motorcycle models, visit Moroney's Harley-Davidson® in New Windsor, New York. We also offer parts ordering, trade-ins, servicing, insurance, and test rides, so visit us for all your motorcycle-related needs. We are proud to serve communities like Cornwall and Newburgh, New York, and we hope to see you soon.