Why Do Motorcycle Brake Pads Squeak?
2 Answers
Motorcycle brake pads may squeak due to missing or damaged fixing screws of the brake disc, or a malfunction in the brake system. Alternatively, tiny sand particles may have entered between the pad and disc, sometimes causing abnormal noise due to friction. This situation generally does not require repair; simply riding for a while can help the small sand particles fall out. Below is an introduction to motorcycle driving licenses D, E, and F: D License: License code: D, Application age: 18-60 years, Permitted vehicle type: ordinary two-wheeled motorcycles, Permitted models: three-wheeled motorcycles with an engine displacement greater than 50ml or a maximum design speed greater than 50km/h, Other permitted models: E, F, Annual physical examination: Not required for those under 60 years old, Test vehicle requirements: At least a four-speed ordinary three-wheeled motorcycle or ordinary sidecar motorcycle. E License: License code: E, Application age: 18-60 years, Permitted vehicle type: ordinary two-wheeled motorcycles, Permitted models: two-wheeled motorcycles with an engine displacement greater than 50ml or a maximum design speed greater than 50km/h. Other permitted models: F, Annual physical examination: Not required for those under 60 years old, Test vehicle requirements: At least a four-speed ordinary two-wheeled motorcycle. F License: License code: F, Application age: 18-70 years, Permitted vehicle type: light motorcycles, Permitted models: motorcycles with an engine displacement less than or equal to 50ml and a maximum design speed less than or equal to 50km/h. Other permitted models: Only F, no other permitted models, Annual physical examination: Not required for those under 60 years old, Test vehicle requirements: To be specified by the provincial traffic management department of the public security authority.
I've been riding motorcycles for about seven or eight years and often encounter the annoying issue of squeaky brakes. Usually, this happens because dust or small stones get stuck on the brake pads, especially after riding in the rain—water can wash debris into the brake discs, causing friction and squeaking. Another common reason is that the brake pads have worn too thin, exposing the metal backing, which naturally makes noise when it contacts the brake disc. I've experienced this a few times during long trips—initially, I ignored it, but it almost led to an accident because the braking distance increased. So now, whenever I hear any noise, I immediately stop to check the pad thickness or use brake cleaner to spray them. If that doesn’t work, I seek professional maintenance. Regular maintenance is key, and avoiding hard braking and frequent high-speed riding can help reduce wear.
