Understanding Your Motorcycle’s Braking System
Brakes are one of the most important components of your bike, and motorcycle manufacturers continue to make significant advancements in braking systems to keep you safer while you’re enjoying the freedom of the open road. Knowing a bit about how your brakes work can help you keep them in proper working order. To help you out, Cycle Trader has put together a quick guide to understanding your motorcycle’s braking system.
Types of Braking Systems
Motorcycle braking systems can be divided into two categories: disc and drum brake.
Disc Brake
Most motorcycles manufactured today use disc brakes on the front and rear wheels. The disc brakes use calipers to squeeze the brake pads against the disc to create friction and slow your bike down.
Drum Brake
Drum brake is a more traditional type of braking system that features two circular brake shoes located in the wheel hub. These shoes push out when the brake is applied to create the friction required to slow down a motorcycle. Today, the drum brake is primarily used for rear braking on older bike models.
Anti-Lock Braking System
The anti-lock braking system (ABS) has become a critical safety feature in motorcycles. ABS can enhance braking efficiency, especially on slippery or wet roads. Popular motorcycle brands, such as Harley-Davison, BMW, and Kawasaki, offer bikes equipped with ABS for increased rider safety. This technology allows the wheel to maintain contact with the surface of the road, preventing the wheel from locking up during hard braking.
Brake Pads
Brake pads are lined onto the caliper and, as we discussed above, are responsible for creating the friction needed to bring your motorcycle to a stop. Overtime, brake pads wear down and will need to be replaced. Most brake pads have grooves on their surface that can help indicate when it’s time to replace them. Brake pads come in different styles and materials, so it’s best to follow your manufacturer’s recommendations before changing the pads, or take your bike to a knowledgeable mechanic.
Brake Fluid
Disc brakes use brake fluid to amplify a motorcycle’s braking power. As part of your motorcycle’s maintenance, you’ll need to flush and change your brake fluid. You can follow your owner’s manual’s maintenance schedule to know how often you should replace the brake fluid.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has classifications for brake fluid to meet specific requirements. In your bike’s owner’s manual, under the section about brake system maintenance, you’ll see “DOT” and a number. This indicates what type of brake fluid your motorcycle uses. Make sure to always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to keep your brakes in good working order.
Brake Lines
Brake lines deliver high-pressure fluid to the caliper. Brake lines were originally made only out of rubber, which would lose its strength and become soft overtime. Today, riders have their choice of more durable steel braided brake lines.
Your motorcycle’s braking system is made up of many components that all work to keep you safe. Knowing what some of these components are, along with how to care for them, can keep your bike running smoothly for years of riding to come. And, if you’re shopping for a used or new motorcycle for sale, browse the nationwide inventory on CycleTrader.com.
Arielle Patterson
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