How Often Should You Replace Motorbike Brake Discs?

Many motorcycle users ask: Do brake discs on motorcycles also need to be replaced? Today, let's talk in detail about why brake discs need to be replaced and when to replace them?

When the rider brakes and squeezes the brake lever, the brake fluid in the brake pump will create pressure, and the pressure will be transmitted through the pipes to the pistons in the calipers of each wheel, which will then drive the calipers to clamp the brake pads and the brake disc, thereby generating friction and reducing the speed of the motorcycle.

Therefore, relying on the brake pads in the brake calipers to clamp the circular brake disc when the vehicle is in motion to achieve tire braking, if the brake disc and brake pads are not replaced for a long time, significant wear will occur, resulting in poor braking performance of the motorcycle. Therefore, it is important to understand the related knowledge of brake discs.

What are motorbike brake discs?

Motorbike brake discs are simply circular discs that rotate as the motorcycle moves. The brake caliper clamps the brake discs to generate braking force. When the brake is applied, the brake pads clamp the brake disc to slow down or stop the motorcycle. The braking effect of the brake disc is good, but it is also more prone to wear than drum-type brakes.

Mileage for replacing motorbike brake discs

Generally, the brake pads (the two pieces in the brake caliper) need to be replaced after about 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers, and the mileage for replacing the brake disc is generally around 40,000 to 50,000 kilometers. Of course, the replacement mileage is not completely absolute, and it is determined by the driver's driving habits (whether they like to brake abruptly), road conditions, maintenance cycle, and other factors.

When should the motorbike brake discs be replaced?

• In addition to the mileage mentioned above, if the brake pads are worn seriously and continue to be used, causing the iron blocks of the brake pads to rub against the brake disc, the motorcycle brake disc will quickly wear deep grooves and need to be replaced immediately.

• Even if the brake pads have not worn down to the brake disc, if there are deep grooves on the brake disc due to long-term use, and the total thickness of the grooves on both sides exceeds 3 millimeters, the brake disc needs to be replaced.

• Some brake discs may have a smooth surface but are already worn too thin, and the brake pump is rusty while the brake pads are excessively worn. In this case, not only the brake disc needs to be replaced, but the brake pump should also be properly maintained.

Daily maintenance methods for braking motorcycle discs

After a long ride, the motorcycle brake disc generates a lot of heat when braking, so do not wash the motorcycle immediately after the ride. The engine should be turned off to reduce the surface temperature of the brake disc, to prevent deformation of the brake disc due to thermal expansion and contraction caused by contact with cold water at high temperatures. Also, avoid rocks hitting the brake disc and causing deformation. Forgetting to unlock the wheel before starting the vehicle can also cause the brake disc to deform. When the brake disc is deformed, a single-direction friction sound will be produced.

In addition, the best way to extend the life of motorbike brake discs is to maintain good driving habits and avoid abrupt braking and stopping. The mud and sand on the brake discs should be regularly cleaned, and the wear of the brake pads should be checked frequently to ensure they do not come into direct contact with the brake disc.