Brake Shoes
About Brake Shoes
Drum brakes stop the wheel by pressing curved shoes outward against the inside of a drum, and some ATVs use them at one or both ends. Shoes wear down with use, and mud, water and grease can ruin the lining, so they are a regular replacement item on quads that use them.
Shoes are listed by model, with examples here for Honda TRX, Suzuki KingQuad, Yamaha and Kawasaki machines, plus a few multi-brand and Tank Sports listings. Check front or rear, and match the model and year. Replace the shoes as a set for the drum, and inspect the drum surface for scoring, the springs for stretch or rust, and the hardware before you reassemble. A few listings in this category are Sport Carbon disc pads, which belong to disc brakes, so read each title.
Brands here include SBS, EBC, Moose Offroad, DP Brakes and Vesrah. For disc brakes, see Brake Pads. If your brake is cable-operated, see Brake Cables & Rods. The whole group is Brakes & Brake Parts.
FAQs on ATV brake shoes
How can I tell if my ATV has drum brakes?
A drum brake is enclosed in a round housing behind the wheel, with no visible rotor and caliper. Many quads use drums on the rear, and some use them on the front. Check the owner's manual or remove the wheel, and use the Ride Finder to see listings for your model.
What else should I check when I open a drum brake?
Look at the drum for scoring or an out-of-round wear pattern, the springs for stretch or rust, and the hardware for wear. If the brake is hydraulic, look for fluid leaks. Clean with brake cleaner and do not blow brake dust into the air.
Do drum brake shoes need adjusting after replacement?
Yes. Adjust the brake as your service manual describes so the wheel turns freely when released and the brake engages with the right lever or pedal travel. Test the brake at low speed before you ride.
Can drum brakes work after deep water or mud?
Water and mud can reduce braking until the brake dries. After deep water, brake gently at low speed to dry the shoes and check the brake before riding on. If the lining is soaked in grease or oil, it needs to be replaced.
How do I find the right shoes for my machine?
Match the model, year and front or rear position in the listing. Shoe size differs between machines, and a listing may cover several models. Use the Ride Finder at the top of the page and confirm against your owner's manual.
