Pads
- Look at the pad thickness through the caliper. Most pads have a wear groove or indicator that shows when they are near the limit.
- Replace them at the limit given in the owner’s manual, and do not wait for a metal-on-metal noise, which damages the disc.
- Check the front and the rear separately, because they wear at different rates.
Discs
- Look for deep grooves, cracks, heavy rust, a blue tint from overheating, and warping, which you may feel as pulsing at the lever.
- The manual gives the minimum thickness of the disc, which is often marked on it.
Brake fluid
- Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point and causes corrosion. Many manufacturers recommend replacing it every one to two years, so check the interval for your bike.
- Look at the level in the reservoir, and at the colour. Dark fluid is old.
- Keep fluid off paint, because it damages it. Wash it off with plenty of water.
How the lever feels
- A spongy or soft lever can mean air in the system or old fluid. Have it checked before you ride.
- A lever that goes to the grip, or a pedal that sinks, means you should not ride.
- Pulsing, squealing or dragging should be investigated rather than ignored.
Keep them clean and test after washing
- Keep oil, chain lube and polish away from pads and discs. Use a brake cleaner made for the purpose when needed.
- After washing the bike or riding through water, brake gently a few times to dry the pads before you need them.
When to ask a mechanic
If you are not confident working on brakes, ask a mechanic. A badly done brake job is dangerous. If your bike has ABS, check the dashboard warning light at start-up, and have it looked at if it stays on.
Pad limits, fluid types and service intervals depend on the bike. The owner’s manual and your mechanic are the final word.