Brake Pad Upgrade ????

[Moneyman]

Recently bought an 1150GS, generally "happy" with it - apart from the front brakes. Its a 2002 GS, non ABS, non servo. I have bled the brakes, the lever is not "spongey" but the front brakes do not seem sharp enough for such a big bike. How good should the brakes be ?? I was going to strip and clean the calipers, fit new pads - should I stick with genuine BMW or go for aftermarket ? If so, which make is the best ?

Thanks !
Pete

 

[newman7096]

Change to EBC HH sinitered!

They've got more bite compared to standard!

You'll notice a significant difference!

Some say you'll end up with increased disc wear but can't say I've noticed.

 

[Sergeant Pluck]

2 thoughts:

is it still on the original pads, and if not, are they the correct pads for a non-ABS bike? Mines non-ABS and I was surprised to find that it uses a different compound to the ABS equipped bikes.

also, you say you the 1150 is relatively new to you. have you ridden telelever bikes before? i found it took a while to get used to the braking 'feel' on these bikes - and in fact i was stopping much quicker than i thought was.

hope this helps

pr0ne

 

[Moneyman]

"also, you say you the 1150 is relatively new to you. have you ridden telelever bikes before? i found it took a while to get used to the braking 'feel' on these bikes - and in fact i was stopping much quicker than i thought was."

Never ridden telelever before, but I'm partly judging the lack of "bite" on what I've grown to call wobblestop. If the brakes don't bite properly, timing my feet down is more difficult so I wobble and stop......

 

[richie]

Change to EBC HH sinitered!

They've got more bite compared to standard!

You'll notice a significant difference!

Some say you'll end up with increased disc wear but can't say I've noticed.

Yes indeed the bees knees

 

[BiG DoM]

2 thoughts:

is it still on the original pads, and if not, are they the correct pads for a non-ABS bike? Mines non-ABS and I was surprised to find that it uses a different compound to the ABS equipped bikes.


pr0ne

This is a new one on me!
Also remember that the sintered pads chow the rotor quicker...

 

[Greg Masters]

is it still on the original pads, and if not, are they the correct pads for a non-ABS bike? Mines non-ABS and I was surprised to find that it uses a different compound to the ABS equipped bikes.

That surprises me too!

I recently bought some new BMW pads and wasn't asked if I had an ABS equipped bike. But why would it make any difference anyway as the ABS is rarely engaged?



Greg

 

[Sergeant Pluck]

I recently bought some new BMW pads and wasn't asked if I had an ABS equipped bike. But why would it make any difference anyway as the ABS is rarely engaged?

I'm not sure - possibly the non-ABS compond is softer? Anyway, a tad remiss of your dealer not to check with you when ordering tch tch - unless your bike is already on their system perhaps...

pr0ne

 

[Kenny Rodkiss]

Standard pads are HH sintered anyway so other makes of the same type should work ok.
I think Steptoe can supply replacement pads that also have the anti rattle spring attatched and will be ££ cheaper than BM parts.

 

[littleredrooster]

My experiences.....

Standard BM pads: Ok but 'wooden' when cold.

EBC HH pads: Great at all times but rattle like bastards 'cos no anti-rattle springs.

Carbon Lorraine HH: Moderate, but no feel when cold, then tend to grab. Don't rattle. Effing expensive (£45 squids+)

 

[boxer]

Some say you'll end up with increased disc wear but can't say I've noticed.

Some may have a point.

FYI.

My discs have always had EBC HH pads apart from the very first OE set. Now at 49K miles they are at their wear limit of 4.5mm and should really be replaced.

49K miles seems a little premature, but that could be down to riding styles and other factors unique to my usage.

Russ

 

[Tarka]

I have Carbon Lorraine in the front on both my 1100s and they are fooking awesome.If you are a mirror polished rim freak like me beware-they leave a shitload of dust on yer rims and spokes. Still,it gives reason for a night of cider,music and polishing...bliss. At the rear,I have OE BMW pads in one,and EBC HH in t`other, and I found the EBCs to have better feel and effect.