Brakes & Brake Parts
About Brakes & Brake Parts
A motorcycle brake system turns your hand or foot effort into clamping force at the wheel, and nearly every part in that chain either wears, ages or can be upgraded. Riders shop this section for routine replacement, for repairs after a leak or a sticking caliper, and for changes that give a firmer lever feel.
Start with the parts that rub. On a disc brake, Brake Pads press on Brake Disc Rotors, held by Brake Calipers & Brackets. Drum brakes use Brake Shoes, and Brake Pad & Shoe Hardware holds either type together. You will also find Brake Disc Rotor Covers and Brake Component Kits here.
The other half of the system moves the force. The Brake Master Cylinders on the lever or pedal push fluid through Brake Lines, Hoses & Fittings, while mechanical brakes use Brake Cables & Rods. Reservoirs, Caps & Covers seal the fluid, and Rebuild Kits & Parts restore a unit that leaks or sticks. Smaller items are in Other Brake Parts.
Brands in this section include Braking, EBC, Colony, Drag Specialties and Arlen Ness. Brake parts are specific to the model, year and sometimes whether the bike has ABS, so pick yours in the Ride Finder at the top of the page. To avoid ordering the wrong part, read why parts don't fit. Brakes are a safety system, so follow the service manual when you work on them.
FAQs on motorcycle brakes
Which brake parts should be replaced together?
Replace pads in pairs on the same axle, and on a bike with two front discs replace the pads in both calipers. Rotors on a dual-disc front end are normally changed as a pair too. Fresh brake fluid is a good addition when you open the system.
How often should I change motorcycle brake fluid?
Follow the interval in your owner's or service manual. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point and can corrode parts. Use the type printed on the reservoir or listed in the manual, and do not mix incompatible types.
What does a spongy brake lever mean?
A soft or spongy lever usually points to air in the fluid, old fluid, a leak, or a worn or swollen hose. Do not ride with it. Inspect the lines, fittings, master cylinder and calipers, and bleed the system once the cause is fixed.
When does a brake system need bleeding?
Any time the hydraulic circuit is opened, such as when you change a line, a caliper or a master cylinder, or when the lever feels soft. Bleeding removes air so the lever feels firm. Use fresh fluid of the type your manual calls for.
How do I find the right brake part for my bike?
Brake parts differ by model, year and sometimes by ABS or non-ABS version. Choose your machine in the Ride Finder, then compare the part title with your old part, including front or rear, left or right, and size.
