Your brakes are the most important safety system on your motorcycle. However, brake pads are often only replaced when it's already too late, when you hear that grinding sound or your braking distance suddenly increases. In this article, you'll read when your brake pads need replacing, what signs to look out for, and which brands we recommend for street use.
How long do brake pads last?
There is no fixed mileage limit. Lifespan depends on your riding style, the type of brake pad, and how heavily you use your brakes. With sporty riding or a lot of city traffic, brake pads typically last 8,000 to 15,000 km. With touring or a lot of highway driving, you might see 15,000 to 25,000 km. These are guidelines. Always check visually.
Signs that your brake pads need replacing
1. Thickness below the minimum limit
Most brake pads have a wear indicator: a notch or groove in the pad. As soon as the brake material is worn down to that notch, replacement is necessary. If there's no indicator, replace them when less than 1.5 mm of material remains.
2. Grinding or squealing sound
A high-pitched squealing or grinding sound when braking means that the metal backing plate is hitting the brake disc. At this point, replacement has been delayed for too long, and you risk damaging the brake disc.
3. Longer braking distance
Do you notice that you have to brake further ahead than usual? Then the pads might be worn, or the brake fluid level might be low. Check both.
4. Uneven wear
If one pad wears faster than the other, a caliper piston may be stuck. Fix this before installing new pads, otherwise the new ones will also wear unevenly.
5. Vibration when braking
This is more indicative of a warped or grooved brake disc. Also check the disc if you feel vibration.
Checking brake pads: how to do it
Look through the caliper at the brake pad, or remove the wheel for a better view. Measure the thickness of the brake material, excluding the metal backing plate. Less than 1.5 mm? Replace. Also check the brake disc for grooves, cracks, or minimum thickness. That minimum thickness is stamped on the disc itself.
Which brake pads for your motorcycle?
At Femon Parts, we carry brake pads from three brands that are proven on the road.
Brembo is a top Italian brand and OEM supplier for many motorcycle manufacturers. Brembo brake pads are available in both standard and sport versions and offer excellent performance over a wide temperature range.
Moto-Master is a Dutch brand with a strong reputation in both street and motorsport. Known for consistent brake feel and long lifespan.
Nissin is a Japanese manufacturer that serves as an OEM supplier for Honda, but also makes excellent aftermarket pads for many other brands. Reliable, well-priced, and widely available.
Replacing brake pads: do it yourself or have it done?
Replacing brake pads is a feasible job for many motorcyclists with basic tools. Always carefully push the brake caliper piston(s) back before assembly. Use the correct caliper mounting grease, never on the braking surface itself. For the first 50 to 100 km, gently break in the pads and avoid hard emergency braking immediately after installation. Always check the braking system before departure. In doubt? Have it done by a mechanic.
Find the right brake pads directly
Use our motorcycle finder to find the brake pads that fit your motorcycle. Select your brand, model, and year, and you'll only see the parts that fit directly.
Do you have a question about which brake pads best suit your riding style? Contact us via our store in Hazerswoude, we are happy to help you.