How to clean motorcycle brakes?

When building a motorcycle, both frame design and engine power are very important to vehicle safety. Weeling, the pilot must always be safe, and this begins with the condition of the motorcycle, before driving the rider or other external elements. The brakes are essential for the safety of the pilot. However, like any other part of the bike, with time and hundreds of miles of roads, the brakes start to fail. In addition to wear, this also happens if you brake sharply while driving at high speed. It is therefore necessary to check the condition of the brakes from time to time and to take good care of them, starting with cleaning them. This article will take you through all of the brake cleaning steps, and provide you with tips for maintaining them.  

Motorcycles - general information

Do not hesitate to consult our guide on motorcycles to learn about the different types of motorcycles that exist, the characteristics of each and buying advice if you want to replace your motorcycle.

Motorcycle brake cleaning

The braking system of your vehicle is made up of the brake lever or pedal, the transmission cable, and the brake which is attached to the frame of the motorcycle and the moving part of which is attached to the wheel. Cleaning should focus first on the brake discs, and then on the calipers. Models vary from motorcycle to motorcycle, but they are almost all alike. For each organ, you will find a special product. Brake disc cleaner gives it back its original shine and extends its life. The brake caliper also has its specialized product. Spray the cleaner on the caliper and allow it to evaporate for a few minutes before wiping it off with a rag. Basically, these cleaners remove all traces of dust, brake fluid, dirt and oil from the brakes.   

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Step 1 - Motorcycle Brake Lubrication

By dint of braking, the high force of friction wears down the brakes. It is for this reason that the discs and plates must always be lubricated. Buy a high pressure resistant grease product. After its application, you should feel an improvement in braking. If on the contrary, when braking you feel that the brake is mushy, it is possible that the problem comes from the lever or the clamps which are badly adjusted. We advise you to seek the advice of an expert.

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Step 2 - Motorcycle brake fluid replacement

Brake systems all have brake fluid. When you brake, this fluid travels throughout the hydraulic system and the brake system to stop the wheel. This fluid is therefore essential for the proper functioning of the brake system. Over time, changes in temperature and humidity gradually degrade brake fluid. It is therefore necessary to control the boiling temperature of the liquid by a specialist of course, and to change the liquid at least once every 2 years or after every 10 km traveled. Check the nature of the product to be used in the manufacturer's instructions, or in the sticker on the tank cap. Before adding the new liquid, you must get rid of the old one. This is done with a deaeration device which sucks up the liquid. This is called the purge.

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Step 3 - Changing motorcycle brake discs

Even brake discs deteriorate over time. If you notice that after cleaning there are still stains on the discs, it is probably time to change them. Also check the stability of the device. The discs must be very well wedged. To maintain a certain degree of security, regularly check the condition of the disks. If they seem worn out, show them to a specialist who will judge whether they need to be changed.

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Step 4 - Motorcycle brake break-in

Now that you have new brake discs, it is advisable to do a rounding. This technique is performed each time a new disc or pads are installed. These two organs are intended to rub together to stop the wheel, and therefore the vehicle. Break-in improves brake performance. The running-in process can take a long time, but it is rather simple. Prepare to perform up to 200 brakes. Indeed, since the mechanic cannot do this manipulation in his workshop, this work is up to you. What you need to do is start by performing 20 full, calm and smooth brakes at a maximum speed of 50 km / h. An alternative would be to make 20 partial brakes to reduce the speed from 80 km / h to 30 km / h. Then, continue with light braking while driving at normal speed and waiting 30 seconds between each braking. Sure, avoid any sharp or sudden braking, something which has a negative impact on the brakes and is counterproductive for the break-in.

The products recommended in this article

Aerosol containing 3 kg of Bardhal used by automotive professionals.

Two antioxidant metal brake discs, with a wave profile that allows better braking.

Powerful Ipone brake degreaser. The aerosol has an adjustable diffusion head which allows the power of the jet to be combined with the precision of the spraying.

More Motorcycle Brake Service Products on Amazon