Sirmons Alignment & Brake

While classic model motorcycles have greater adjustment ranges for brake levers and pedals, modern bikes are a bit less flexible in this area. If you have a newer bike, and riding fatigue is a problem, have the levers and pedals adjusted to a more comfortable position.

Brake life and tire performance are inextricably linked. If one or the other or both are not in good condition, braking ability will suffer and dangerous conditions are created.

If you have noticed a change in the response of your brakes, check the brake fluid. Moisture can contaminate brake fluid, causing brake failure as well as damaging the brake components. Regular brake fluid maintenance can help prevent this from occurring.

If brake pads are not replaced when they wear out, the metal-on-metal contact that is created will wear grooves into the brake rotors. If this has happened, they will need to be replaced, or driving your car will not be safe.

Scraping sounds from the front end while you are driving often indicate brake problems. If you hear it, have the brake pads and shoes checked for wear or contamination from brake fluid or oil.

If your brake pedal begins to feel spongy, it’s recommended that you have your brake system looked at. This might indicate that air has entered the brake system or that the fluid is low.

An anti-lock braking system is made up of four key components: speed sensors, pump, valves, and a controller. Each of these is connected to a computer that monitors their functions and keeps them coordinated.

Brake pads are equipped with an early warning system. They are manufactured with a metal tab that makes contact with the brake disc (rotor) after a certain point. Initially, the scraping or squealing will be minimal, but gets louder as brake pad wear increases. When you hear it, it is time to replace the pads.

If you are going on a trip that will take you through the mountains, especially if you will be towing or carrying a heavier than normal load, have your brake rotors inspected. The heat generated by braking while descending steep grades can cause the rotors to warp.

If you are hard on your brakes, you can upgrade to better parts for improved performance and longer life. Slotted rotors dissipate heat better and ceramic brake pads perform as well as metal but generate less noise and dust.

Your driving habits, and driving conditions, all have an impact on the service life of your brakes. Frequent or hard stopping, the average weight you carry, and other factors can shorten their predicted performance and create a hazard.

Did you know that using your parking brake (also known as the emergency brake) regularly will protect the rear brakes? The rear brakes self-adjust each time you apply the parking brake.