Foot Brake Levers & Pedals
About Foot Brake Levers & Pedals
The rear brake pedal is the control that many riders press without thinking, so a bent, worn or slick one gets noticed quickly. A fall can bend the pedal arm or snap its tip, and boots slowly polish the pad until it loses grip. Riders come here to replace those parts, to fit a pedal that folds on impact, or to add a cover or pad with a different look or better traction.
Dirt bikes and cruisers use different pedals. On off-road bikes the listings include solid-tip pedals and folding-tip pedals, which swing back when hit and are less likely to snap or stay bent. They are cut to the model and the years, such as KX250F or Husqvarna TE models, and come in the usual brand colors. On cruisers and tourers, the part is a brake arm or a pedal with a separate pad or cover, and the listings include Harley-Davidson FL and touring models along with Honda.
A pad or cover is a quick way to restore grip without replacing the whole arm. After fitting a new pedal, check that it sits at a comfortable height, that it has a little free play, that it moves freely and snaps back, and that the brake light comes on. If the brake feels spongy or the pedal does not spring up on its own, have it serviced before you ride.
Brands in this category include Covingtons, Zeta, HardDrive, Drag Specialties and Arlen Ness. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder at the top of the page for pedals made for it. The other controls are in Shift & Gear Levers, Footrests, Foot Pegs & Pedal Pads and Rearsets, all part of Foot Controls, Pedals & Pegs.
FAQs on rear brake pedals
What is a folding-tip brake pedal?
It is a pedal whose tip is hinged and spring-loaded, so it folds back when it hits a rock or the ground and springs back into position. This reduces bent or broken pedals on off-road bikes.
How do I adjust the rear brake pedal height?
Check your service manual for the adjuster on your bike, usually near the master cylinder rod or a stopper. Set a comfortable height with a little free play, confirm that the brake does not drag, and test the brake light.
Can I replace just the pad or cover on my brake pedal?
On many bikes, yes. A pad or cover slips or bolts over the pedal and restores grip, and the listings here include serrated covers and pedal tips. If the arm is bent or cracked, replace the whole pedal.
Do brake pedals fit more than one model?
Often not. The pedal must match the pivot, the master cylinder linkage and the mounting. Listings name the model and years, so pick your bike in the Ride Finder and match them.
Why does my rear brake pedal feel low or loose?
Worn pads, air in the line, a worn pivot or a loose linkage can all cause it. Do not ride if the brake feels spongy or fades. Have the system inspected, since a pedal swap will not fix a hydraulic problem.
