Rusting brake discs, what to do!

Rusting Motorcycle Brake Discs: What to Do?

Have you ever noticed a brown, red, or brown colored deposit or dust, with an unpleasant appearance and a strong metallic odor that invades your records after a long period of immobilization, periods of humidity or rainy days? Don't panic, your brakes are fine. But your brake discs may need a little cleaning because they are rusty.

Basically, rust buildup on motorcycle brake discs is a very common and harmless problem! But it is not to be overlooked and it must be resolved quickly. Over time and in the presence of oxygen and water, this rust which is a form of corrosion can start to attack your brake discs. And subsequently cause very localized bites, which prove to develop rapidly in depth! Which is not pleasant because it will have an impact on the braking of your motorcycle.

Be aware, however, that if the brake discs of your motorcycle are badly rusted or even damaged, the braking will automatically be of poorer quality. To prevent this from happening to you, consider taking the time to remove the calipers and clean the pistons thoroughly. Also discover in this article, other essential tips that can help you keep your brake discs in good condition:

Motorcycle brake discs that rust from moisture

One of the main causes of the appearance of layers of rust on your brake discs is moisture. As we all know, the source rust in the presence of moisture, and your motorcycle's brake discs are no exception. This is because when you leave your motorcycle outside, especially in winter, the high humidity can cause the iron to form a layer of rust instantly. This layer will be visible only at the outer edge and inner surface of your records. After a few winters, this accumulation of rust on your brake discs will quickly develop rapidly in depth. And subsequently cause noises even considered unpleasant, such as squealing or the squeak.

Unfortunately, there is no magic solution to avoid this problem. But you can still try to ride your motorcycle and brake frequently. This will remove much of the rust, which is present on the outer surface of your brake discs.

Motorcycle brake discs that rust from rain and snow

Another cause of brake disc rust is rain and snow. As a result, during winter days snow falls and of course when you ride your motorcycle, rainwater and ice will seep into your brake discs. Obviously, this snow will melt as your brakes heat up while driving. Combined with the salt residues on the ground, the latter will cause the appearance of rust spots and excessive wear on your brake discs. (In this regard, we invite you to consult this page to see how to save a motorcycle that has taken on water! )

It should also be noted that during the winter and on rainy days, the formation of rust on your brake discs is inevitable but luckily for you, rust usually does not withstand a few good small brakes!

Motorcycle brake discs rusting from road salts

Indeed, the road salt present on the road can also accelerate the rusting of your brake discs.

Unfortunately there might not be much you can do about this, but there are still a few things you can do to avoid this kind of problem! 

Think for example of rinsing your motorcycle every two weeks, with cold water! This will dissolve the little salt crystals that are sure to get stuck in your brake discs. 

The effects of rust on the brake disc motorcycle

The presence of rust on the discs is a normal phenomenon and without any danger. Indeed this rust can have no impact on the quality of the braking of your motorcycle. But in the worst cases, rust buildup on your brake discs can lead to unpleasant noises like squealing and friction noises.

Some solutions to remove rust marks of your motorcycle

There are two ways to prevent rust spots from appearing and spreading on your brake rotors. The first is to use special anti-rust sprays and products, which can protect the brake discs from the formation of corrosion and rust.

The second method is to rub the rust with very fine grit sandpaper. Otherwise, also remember to ride your motorbike regularly! Because by driving and constantly applying the brakes, the rusty deposits will be gradually removed.

If you also want to find the motorcycle of your dreams, do not hesitate to consult our article which lists the best motorcycles available on the market!