What Causes the Rear Disc Brake of a Motorcycle to Overheat?
2 Answers
Reasons for the rear disc brake of a motorcycle overheating: Temporary braking: Regardless of whether the rear wheel's braking system is a drum brake or a disc brake, prolonged braking can cause the rear wheel to overheat, especially with a drum brake system, as its heat dissipation performance is generally poor, making this phenomenon more likely to occur. Riding with the brake engaged: Riding with the brake engaged is equivalent to riding while pressing the brake, which can easily cause the wheel to overheat. The main reasons for riding with the brake engaged are directly related to brake system malfunctions and improper adjustments. Bearing damage: The rear wheel can rotate smoothly mainly because of the bearings inside the hub. However, if the bearings inside the hub lack lubrication, the operational resistance will increase, leading to damage. At this point, the temperature of the hub will exceed the design standard. Tire overheating: If the tire pressure is insufficient, the excessive deformation during operation can also cause overheating or heating. This manifestation is related to the tire itself and has little to do with the mechanical structure of the wheel.
After riding motorcycles for so many years, I've personally experienced issues with the rear disc brake overheating. Once during a long trip, after descending a steep slope, I found the rear brake so hot I couldn't touch it, realizing it was due to excessive brake use. It could be because the brake pads were too worn, or the caliper was sticking and not retracting, causing constant slight friction against the disc. Another possibility is issues with the wheel hub or transmission indirectly causing the brake to heat up. It's advisable to stop and let the system cool down, then check the brake pad thickness and whether there are any abnormal scratches on the disc surface. Also, take a look at the brake fluid—too much moisture or air bubbles can lower the boiling point, making heat more likely to accumulate. Don't underestimate this issue; safety comes first. Don't hesitate to seek professional inspection when needed. Regular maintenance of the brake system usually saves a lot of hassle.
