Common Issues Arising From Motorcycle Brake Systems
Having your brakes inspected regularly is an important part of owning a vehicle. If a motorcycle is routinely serviced, certain issues can arise with the brakes. Common problems include worn brake liners, misaligned or stuck brake components, and insufficient brake fluid. To diagnose and resolve these issues, a vehicle inspector should be consulted. Adjustments or repairs may be necessary to fix the problem.
Regular maintenance of the brakes can help prevent these problems from occurring in the first place. Read this article and learn some common issues you may encounter with your motorcycle’s brake system.
Brake Binding
It is a situation wherein the brakes will stay engaged even when the brake lever is not being pressed. This is usually caused by the brake linings sticking to the brake drum, thus causing the brakes to remain in an applied state. The brake shoes and pedals are connected by springs; if these springs are damaged, it can prevent the brakes from properly retracting. If this is the case, the springs must be replaced so that the brakes work correctly.
Several things can cause brake binding. One of them is when the brake shoes get stuck on the anchor pins, preventing them from moving freely. To fix this, you can lubricate the anchor pins so the brakes will move freely again.
Brake Fade
Brake fade occurs when a vehicle's brakes are used too often or aggressively, leading to an expansion of the brake drum or a decrease in the friction of the brake lining. This causes the brakes to become less effective and can be fixed by slowing down the vehicle and using a lower gear. Once the brakes cool down, the brake fade will go away and the brakes will return to normal.
Many people tend to press down on the brake pedal or keep the brake lever pressed when they don't need to, which causes the brakes to overheat and leads to brake fade. To avoid this, the driver should make sure not to keep their foot on the brake pedal or keep the brake lever pressed unless necessary.
Brake Lockup
A brake lockup is when the brakes on a vehicle become stuck and can no longer move freely. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a seized caliper, a broken brake line, or worn brake pads.
When working on drum brakes, it's essential to ensure the linings are clean. If the linings are not cleaned before the brakes are assembled, the brakes may start to grab after some use. This is usually caused by grease that has accumulated on the linings.
Oil Leakage
Oil leakage from disc brakes is a common problem that can lead to a decrease in the performance of the brakes. The leakage may come from the joints, benzo bolts, caliper side, plunger assembly, or reservoir. If not addressed, it can be incredibly costly in terms of maintenance costs and reduced braking capability.
Leakages from the brakes can be caused by worn or damaged components such as the reservoir, caliper, connecting pipes, or hoses. It is crucial to inspect these parts for any signs of wear and tear and repair or replace them if required. Loose fittings can also lead to a loss of brake fluid, so these should be securely tightened to prevent further leakage.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, it is vital to understand the complexities of a motorcycle’s brake system and the various components that make up this critical safety feature. With regular maintenance and inspection of the brake system, riders can ensure the longevity and proper functioning of their motorcycle’s brake system.
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