[bunner bob]

My 2007 650 ABS is at about 16k miles now, a lot of which is long-distance mileage with not a lot of braking. A Harley mechanic (who was jury rigging my fried starter relay so I could get home from Utah) told me my rear brake pads were just about done for. I ordered some up as soon as I got home and went to install them today. When I pulled out the old ones, they appeared to have plenty of material left. The owner's manual shows a little divot in the backside of the pad as the wear indicator. Mine don't have that, but from the image in the manual it looks like you're down to maybe 1/16" of material at that point, and I have more than twice that - maybe 3 times.

So - is there a more quantifiable way of determining whether pads need replacing? Like measuring the thickness?

And, about how long should pads last, given that most of my riding is longer distances without a lot of aggressive braking?

- Bob

 

[greywolf]

There are too many variables to determine expected mileage. It has to be done by thickness. The pads are glue to the backer, not riveted. As long as any material is left over the entire pad area, they will function okay. 1/16" is probably the minimum thickness I'd want.

 

[gryphon51]

My backs get worn down almost to metal.... my first set did not last long.... my second was better, my third are still on there cause I barely ever use my rear brake anymore.... except in mud or snow.... :thumbup: