Motorcycle Brake Maintenance

We doubt it’s a newsflash to state that your motorcycle’s braking system is really super important. Safe, reliable, and predictable braking is critical to every move you make on a bike, so make sure you maintain your brakes properly.

If you’re not the DIY (do it yourself) type, just book an appointment with our service department at Northern Power Sports and we’ll make sure your bike is safe and ready to roll. Otherwise, check out our maintenance tips and please ride safely. We offer motorcycle parts, service, and new inventory in Fairbanks, Alaska, where we also serve our neighbors in North Pole and College, Alaska.

Keep an eye on your brake pads so you notice unusual wear and get them replaced when necessary. Brake pads are built with an indicator groove cut or molded into the surface. When the pads are worn away enough to make the groove disappear (when the pad is about 2 millimeters thick), you need to replace them.

If you notice your pads are wearing fast, it may be due to a caliper piston and a slider sticking together. Fix this by cleaning and lubricating the pivot points before applying a high-temperature silicone brake grease.

Brake fluid absorbs moisture, so you should replace it every year or two according to advice in your owner’s manual. Brake bleeding kits are available to catch the fluid that you want to drain. Before you get started, remember that brake fluid is highly corrosive and it will melt away paint and harm plastic, so protect your bike, work carefully, and keep plenty of clean rags handy.

While you are draining the fluid, refill the master cylinder with fresh fluid, maintaining the required level as mentioned in the manual. Continue topping it off until the drained fluid runs clear. Make sure that there are no air bubbles in the fluid in the cylinder.

We always advise our customers to do maintenance and repairs on their bikes, because it helps you be more resourceful if you break down or have problems with your bike. It also makes you a better, more informed customer when you are at the service department, as well as a better rider.

If you need any help with your brakes or any other part of your bike, please reach out to our service department. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff at Northern Power Sports is always available to help!