Motorcycle Brakes and Suspension Parts
Motorcycle brakes and suspension parts ensure that your bike operates safely when ridden. When problems occur with your vehicle, having aftermarket parts to make any necessary repairs or maintenance ensures a safer and more comfortable riding experience.
When is it time to change motorcycle brakes?Having properly functioning brakes on your bike is necessary for the safety of you, your bike, and other people on the road. Here are some tips on when it is time to change the brakes on your bike.
- Perform inspections before riding and when changing the oil. If you notice that the friction line on the brake pads has worn down to 1/8 “ or less, this is a clear sign that it is time to change them out.
- Listen for the screech. If you hear an audible screech sound when applying your brakes, maintenance is necessary. Inspect the brake pads, rotors, and calipers to locate any signs of wear.
- Hard braking. If you feel any type of hesitation when applying the brakes, changing the brakes may help to eliminate this problem.
A typical motorcycle has front and rear suspension systems. The front suspension consists of a pair of fork tubes. The rear motorcycle suspension consists of a swingarm in combination with 1 or 2 shock absorbers. The fork tubes and shock absorbers allow for slack when a vehicle hits a surface that is not level. These components of the motorcycle suspension system absorb the impact, preventing the rider and the bike from experiencing any kind of shock.
How do you soften the suspension on a motorcycle?Softening up the suspension on your bike allows you to experience a more cushioned ride. This can prevent injuries to your back and legs as well. To soften the suspension, follow the steps listed below:
- Set the spring preload also known as the sag of the bike.
- Adjust the rebound on the bike.
- Adjust the shock compression as needed.
- Set the ride height by adjusting the length of the shock to accommodate the height of the rider.
The suspension is important when it comes to controlling a motorcycle. Here is a maintenance checklist to ensure your bike's suspension system won't fail you:
- Keep forks and shocks clean: Remove any dirt or debris from the chrome surfaces and seals of the suspension system. Soak the sponge ring in oil to provide a lubricated barrier for the system.
- Perform a visual inspection: Look for any worn out motorcycle suspension components. This is often noticed with bushes or linkages that show slack.
- Have regular service done: Change the fluid in the forks and shocks regularly at 50,000 miles. More frequent checks are needed for sports motorcycles that experience higher levels of bumps and jumps.