If you’re a proud owner of a motorcycle, it’s probably safe to assume that it’s one of your most valued possessions. This is one of the many reasons you should ensure you’re doing all you can to keep your bike in tip-top shape. You shouldn’t ignore your motorcycle’s brakes, as they can make all the difference between a safe ride and a tragic collision. If you’re the DIY type who prefers to do simple upkeep tasks on your own, you've come to the right place. We’ve provided some helpful motorcycle brake maintenance tips, so read on to learn more!

Regularly Inspect the Brakes

A great place to start is to engage in checking your brakes on a regular basis. Bring your bike into our service department if the brakes start acting up. You should never neglect any grinding, squeaking, or pulsating noise coming from your brakes. You’ll also want to keep an eye on brake fluid levels. Many motorcycles have separate tanks for the front and rear wheels, so check both of them and top off if needed. Check the brake pads and change them if they are worn out.

Bleeding Your Bike’s Brakes

Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, so you should replace it with a fresh one every year or two depending on usage and your manufacturer’s recommendation. Brake bleeding kits are available, which you can use to catch the fluid that you want to drain. Remember that brake fluid is highly corrosive and it can damage the paint and plastic parts, so work carefully and keep plenty of clean rags handy to wipe off anything it gets on.

By following these motorcycle brake maintenance tips, you should be able to keep your bike working smoothly. If you need professional help with service or repairs, contact us at Hideout Harley-Davidson® in Joplin, MO. We proudly serve all those in Springfield, MO, and Rogers, AR.