Brake Shoes
About Brake Shoes
Brake shoes are the curved friction pieces inside a drum brake. When you pull the lever or press the pedal, the shoes are pushed outward against the drum to slow the wheel. They are found on the rear wheel of many smaller and older bikes, and sometimes at the front.
The listings here are mostly bike-specific shoes for Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki and Polaris, with a few listed for more than one make. Size and shape vary by model, so the fitment in the title is important. Shoes are replaced for the whole wheel at once, and the drum, springs and brake cable should be checked while the wheel is apart. A drum that is scored or worn past its service limit, or shoes contaminated with oil, will not brake well, whatever the shoes are like.
Brands here include SBS, EBC, DP Brakes and Vesrah. Springs, pins and clips are in Brake Pad & Shoe Hardware, the cable that operates a drum brake is in Brake Cables & Rods, and disc-brake friction parts are in Brake Pads. Pick your bike in the Ride Finder at the top of the page. The whole group is Brakes & Brake Parts.
FAQs on motorcycle brake shoes
How is a drum brake different from a disc brake?
A drum brake has shoes inside a drum that move outward against its inner surface. A disc brake has pads that clamp a rotor from the sides. Drum brakes are enclosed, and they are found mostly on smaller or older bikes.
Do I replace both brake shoes together?
Yes. Replace both shoes on the same wheel at the same time so they wear and grip evenly. Check the drum, springs and cable while you are there, and keep oil and grease off the lining.
Why is my drum brake dragging or weak?
Dragging is often an over-tight adjustment, weak springs or a sticking cam, while a weak brake can come from glazed shoes, oil on the linings or a worn drum. Inspect the parts and fix the cause before riding.
How do I know if the brake drum is worn?
Measure the inside diameter against the service limit in your manual, and look for deep scoring or an uneven surface. A drum worn past its limit should be replaced, since new shoes will not fit properly in it.
Is brake dust from drum brakes dangerous?
It is best not to breathe it. Do not blow it out with compressed air. Wet-clean the parts with brake cleaner, wipe them up, and wash your hands, following the safety information from the shoe maker.
