Upgrade his braking system

 

Are brakes for cowards?! Yet, they are crucial for your two-wheeler.

Safety and performance are essential for all riders 😇

Optimizing this system can not only improve your safety but also provide you with a better riding experience.

In this article, we will guide you through the steps to optimize your motorcycle's braking system and especially how to ensure compatibility between the master cylinder and caliper.

 

Understanding the Components of the Braking System

Before starting optimization, it's important to understand the main components of your disc braking system (we will not cover drum brakes):

 

• Brake discs: The discs on which the brake pads exert pressure to slow down the wheel. Usually made of steel, they can also be made of carbon (Moto GP or ultra-luxury bikes like "Brough Superior"). Often "drilled" to help regulate temperature through ventilation, they can also be "solid".

 

• Brake pads: The components that rub against the discs to create the necessary friction for braking. They can be made of different materials depending on your use (off-road, road, track, etc.).

 

• Brake calipers: The devices that hold and press the pads against the discs. There are two main types: Axial Caliper (found on entry-level motorcycles) and Radial Caliper (found on higher-end motorcycles).

 

Definition: 

AXIAL: Caliper mounting bolts aligned with the wheel axle.

RADIAL: Caliper mounting bolts aligned with the wheel's radius.

 

• Master cylinder: The part that generates hydraulic pressure in the braking system. Like the brake caliper, it can be axial or radial.

 

• Brake fluid: The hydraulic fluid that transmits braking force from the levers to the calipers. There are different types of fluid, but the most commonly used is DOT4.

 

• Brake lines: These connect your brake lever to the calipers. The quality of the lines is essential for braking endurance. For example, aviation-type lines are stiffer and offer more direct braking action.

 

Choose your custom aviation lines in our shop available >here<

 

Why Optimize Your Original Braking System?

Optimizing your motorcycle's original braking system is crucial for several reasons:

 

1. Increased Safety

 

• Reduced Braking Distances

An optimized braking system reduces braking distances. This can make the difference between avoiding an obstacle and having a collision. More efficient brakes ensure better responsiveness, especially in emergency situations.

 

• Riding in Extreme Conditions

In adverse weather conditions (rain, snow, ice), an improved braking system provides better grip and a more predictable response, increasing your safety on the road.

 

2. Improved Performance

 

• Control and Stability

Optimized brakes offer better control and stability of the motorcycle, especially during intense braking. This improves the rider's confidence and precision during maneuvers.

 

Learn how to ride in the rain with this article from Lerepairdesmotards

 

• Reduced Fatigue

More efficient braking reduces arm and hand fatigue during long trips or sporty riding, as less effort is required to achieve effective braking.

 

3. Durability and Longevity

 

• Less Component Wear

High-quality braking components, such as improved pads and discs, suffer less wear and deformation. This extends the life of your braking system and reduces long-term maintenance costs.

 

• Simplified Maintenance

An optimized braking system is often easier to maintain. Quality components require fewer frequent replacements, simplifying regular maintenance.

 

4. Adapting to Your Riding Style

 

• Customization

Optimizing your brakes allows you to customize your motorcycle according to your riding style. Whether you prefer a more responsive and aggressive braking system for sporty riding or smoother braking for urban commuting, optimization is possible.

 

 

• Adaptation to Specific Uses

Each rider has specific needs based on their riding style and the conditions they encounter. By optimizing the braking system, you can adapt your bike to your specific requirements, ensuring a better overall riding experience.

 

5. Added Value to the Motorcycle

 

• Increased Resale Value

An optimized braking system can increase the resale value of your motorcycle. Potential buyers are often willing to pay more for a bike equipped with high-quality, well-maintained components.

 

 

• Better Perception of Quality

A motorcycle with optimized brakes is perceived as being of higher quality. This not only enhances resale value but also increases your own satisfaction and pride as an owner.

 

In summary

Optimizing the original braking system of your motorcycle is a wise investment that enhances the safety, performance, and durability of your machine.

 

How to Optimize Your Braking System?

 

🔧 Replace Brake Lines

• Explanation: Using aviation-type lines helps to "strengthen" the brake fluid channel under pressure during braking. A basic original line is more flexible than an aviation line. With the heating of the fluid under pressure, it will expand. The braking effect will then be more "spongy".

 

• Result: Reinforced lines allow you to maximize braking force.

 

🧐 Choose the Right Brake Pads

Brake pads play a crucial role in braking efficiency. Here are some tips for choosing the right pads:

 

• Pad Material: Brake pads are available in several materials, including sintered metal, organic, and ceramic. Sintered metal pads offer excellent performance in extreme conditions, while organic pads are quieter and less aggressive on the discs.

 

• Quality and Brand: Opt for recognized brands and high-quality pads to ensure optimal performance and durability.

 

🧰 Maintain and Replace Brake Discs

Brake discs need to be in good condition for effective braking. Here’s how to maintain them:

 

• Regular Inspection: Regularly check the thickness of the discs and look for signs of wear or deformation. If the discs are too thin or show cracks, replace them.

 

• Cleaning: Keep the discs clean using a brake cleaner to remove dust and debris.

 

✅ Check and Replace Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is essential for the proper functioning of the hydraulic braking system. Here’s how to manage it:

 

• Inspection: Regularly check the level and color of the brake fluid. If the level is low or the fluid is dark, it's time to replace it.

 

• Replacement: Replace the brake fluid every two years or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Use the type of fluid specified by your motorcycle manufacturer.

 

📈 Improve Brake Calipers

High-performance brake calipers can significantly enhance your braking ability. Here are some options:

 

• Multi-Piston Calipers: Calipers with multiple pistons (e.g., four or six pistons) provide a more even distribution of pressure on the pads, improving braking power and feel.

 

• Radial Caliper: A radial braking system will give you better control of braking thanks to the more direct feedback compared to the Axial system. You can find what you need in our >shop<

 

• Caliper Maintenance: Ensure that the calipers are clean and that the pistons move freely. Dirty or seized calipers can reduce braking efficiency.

 

💡 Replace the Front Brake Master Cylinder

 

Perhaps the most important element, you must ensure a proper "matching" with the brake caliper(s).

We will spare you the mathematical calculations thanks to our matching table.

First, enter the type of motorcycle, then measure the diameter of a piston of the concerned caliper.

Once you have the minimum and maximum piston diameter values, you just need to choose a model to your taste on our site >HERE<! And if you don't find it, contact us :)

 

⚠️ Adopt Good Riding Practices

Finally, optimizing the braking system also involves good riding practices:

 

• Progressive Braking: Learn to brake progressively rather than abruptly to avoid premature component wear.

 

• Engine Braking: Use engine braking to slow down the motorcycle, thereby reducing brake stress.

 

• Training and Practice: Take advanced riding courses to improve your braking skills.

 

In Summary

Optimizing the braking system of your motorcycle is essential for ensuring your safety and enhancing your riding experience.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your motorcycle brakes effectively and reliably.

Remember that regular maintenance and using high-quality components are key to a high-performance braking system.

For more tips and tricks on maintaining your motorcycle, stay tuned to our blog. Ride safely!