What Causes the Metallic Friction Sound from Motorcycle Brake Pads?
2 Answers
Motorcycle brake pads producing abnormal metallic friction sounds may indicate contact with the brake disc or excessive wear of the brake pads. It is recommended to visit an auto repair shop for replacement. Typically, this sound is faint when the brakes are not applied but becomes louder and more piercing when braking. The braking system consists of a vacuum booster pump, master cylinder, wheel cylinder, brake pads, and brake disc. Brake maintenance methods include: 1. High-temperature protection to prevent corrosion of the braking system, avoid brake pad seizure due to overheating, and eliminate brake squealing; 2. Cleaning oil stains, dirt, and friction dust from brake discs, drums, and all components to ensure proper heat dissipation; 3. Regularly replacing brake fluid; 4. Periodically checking the thickness of brake pads or shoes.
I just experienced this issue with my motorcycle's brake pads making a metallic grinding noise. The main reason is that the brake pads are severely worn, exposing the metal parts that rub against the brake disc, or there might be small stones or metal fragments stuck in them. Another common problem is an uneven brake disc with grooves or damage, causing a screeching sound during friction. I remember neglecting maintenance last time, which resulted in weakened braking performance and nearly losing control during a turn. So, as soon as you hear this sound, you should stop immediately and check: see how much thickness is left on the brake pads—if they're thin, replace them; clean the braking system and blow out dust and debris; if there's no improvement, take it to a professional repair shop right away. Don't ignore it—safety first, as brake failure while riding is dangerous. Additionally, rust-related noise is more likely after rain or water exposure, so regular cleaning and maintenance are recommended.
