When is The Time To Change Your Motorcycle’s Brake Pads?

Worn out brake pads not only affect braking performance, but can increase the risk of accidents and cause higher repair costs.

Subscribe to our Instagram channel for the latest info and news!

The braking system is one of the most important components on a motorcycle. While a powerful engine and high quality tires can provide an enjoyable riding experience, it’s all meaningless if your braking system is in poor condition.

One of the most common components that can wear out is the brake pads. Unfortunately, many riders only replace them when the brakes start to make a loud noise or when braking performance is bad.

The truth is, worn out brake pads should be replaced sooner to avoid any damage to other components such as the brake disc. So, how do you know when it’s time to replace your brake pads?

1. Loud Noise When Braking

One of the easiest signs to recognise is when there is a squeaking or grinding noise when you apply the brakes.

Most modern brake pads have an indicator that will make a sound when the brake pad is getting thinner. This sound is actually a warning that your brake pads are nearing the end of its lifepan.

If the noise is left for too long, the brake pads can wear down to the point where the metal behind them rubs against the brake disc. When this happens, it has the potential to damage the brake disc and cause the repair cost to be much more expensive.

2. Braking Performance Is Getting Weaker

Does your motorcycle take longer to stop than before?

This is also one of the signs that the brake pads are starting to wear out. The thinner the brake pad, the less grip it has on the brake disc, thus reducing the efficiency of the braking system.

If you start to feel like your motorcycle is having difficulty stopping even when you pull or press the brakes as usual, don’t wait until the situation becomes more serious.

3. Brake Pads Look Too Thin

The most accurate way is to perform a visual inspection.

Most brake calipers allow you to see the thickness of the brake pads without having to open the entire brake system. As a guide, if the brake pad layer is around 2 to 3 mm, you should start planning when to replace the brake pads.

Don’t wait until the brake pad is completely worn out because at that point the brake disc will also start to get damaged.

4. Feeling of Vibration When Braking

If you feel a vibration in the brake lever or motorcycle when braking, it may be caused by unevenly worn brake pads or brake discs that have started to wear out.

Although this symptom is not necessarily caused by brake pads, it is still a sign that the brake system needs to be checked immediately.

5. Often Riding in the City

The lifespan of brake pads does not just depend on the number of kilometers.

If you use your motorcycle every day in an urban area with lots of traffic lights and traffic jams, the brake pads will wear out faster because the braking system is used more frequently.

On the other hand, riders who use the highway more frequently may be able to use their motorcycle’s brake pads longer.

How Many Kilometers Do Brake Pads Need to Be Changed?

There is no exact number because the lifespan of brake pads depends on riding style, type of brake pad and road conditions.

As a general guide, motorcycle brake pads usually need to be replaced every 15,000 to 32,000 kilometers. However, if you ride frequently in congested urban areas or use your brakes aggressively, your brake pads may wear out faster and need to be replaced sooner.

Therefore, don’t just rely on the odometer reading. It’s best to check the thickness of the brake pads every time your motorcycle undergoes regular service so that they can be replaced before they affect braking performance or damage the brake disc.

Don’t Neglect Your Brake System

Brake pads are a small component, but they play a huge role in rider’s safety. Changing them at the right time will not only ensure that your motorcycle is always safe to ride, but can also prevent more expensive damage in the future. Safety always starts with a braking system that is in top condition.

If you are unsure whether your motorcycle’s brake pads are still in good condition, bring your motorcycle to iMotorbike for a Free Motor Check. Our technicians will inspect your motorcycle and you will receive a full inspection report on the condition of your ride. So what are you waiting for? Visit the iMotorbike website for more information or make an appointment and check the condition of your motorcycle with us.