I wondered if the breaks on a 1995 Goldwing make a noticeble noise, either a squeal or a grinding noise, once the pads do get completely worn out??martinl

PS Is the left bag removal for break inspection any big deal to do(without any manuals?)

By RedDog on Wednesday, May 02, 2001 - 11:35 am:

First you will get a grinding noise then after you wear a little further into the rotor you will get a crunching noise. Then you will get a big bill for a new rotor and pads.

The left bag can easily be removed without a manual!

Put that thing on your cycle lift or center stand and crawl under it and take a look at your pads. You do not have to remove the bag to inspect....

If you are asking if the pads have a sensor (squealer) like cages the answer is no..

By Bob Kekeis on Wednesday, May 02, 2001 - 11:40 am:

Yes, once the brake pads are worn away you will get a squeal or grinding noise. This is what you will hear as the backer plates are ruining your rotor. It is best to check for brake pad wear occassionally so that they can be replaced before they are worn out.

Two small bolts in bottom, two small bolts on the inside back wall and don't forget to remove the little clip on the left rear trim and remove the screw.

By Dennis Firth on Wednesday, May 02, 2001 - 03:29 pm:

These are known as full metallic pads, available at any junk yard.

By Joseph S. Rovito on Wednesday, May 02, 2001 - 04:32 pm:

Do as Red Dog said, put the bike on the center stand and get a flash light and you can see the pads. Depending on your habits, the pads should last around 30,000 + miles. But it's best and cheaspest to check often.

By Martin Larson on Wednesday, May 02, 2001 - 05:24 pm:

I'll try checking them that way, could I please get as visual of a description as you can put to words as to how to gauge the pads, i.e. some notch or marker to analyze for left over thickness?

Thanks all, it's been good stuff you've sent. I am planning a 2600 mile round trip next week so the pads could possibly be something to consider since I turned 40K last week.

Martinl

By Robert Andrachuk on Wednesday, May 02, 2001 - 05:50 pm:

I wondered what you broke, and how it could be worn, and why it would sound off.
But, then. after reading your post I realized you were referring to brakes and the word break was just a typo - or was it?

Please, buy a workshop manual - you won't regret it - even if you don't actually do the work yourself. You will then know the proper terminology, procedures, trouble shooting, and maintenance. Besides, it makes ownership and use that much more fun and interesting.

By Jack H. Smith on Wednesday, May 02, 2001 - 06:49 pm:

Years ago, I tied down my front brake lever while transporting my "88. It locked that cal. tight, and needless to say, it ruined the rotor as well as wore out the pad. I was surprised that Honda warranted it, but I have been careful since that time. We triked last year, so we don't have to worry about the rear any more. I do wish they would put warning tabs on the pads.
Ride safe,

By Bob Kekeis on Wednesday, May 02, 2001 - 07:54 pm:

If you have 40k on the pads replace them but before you go running for the pads you better check the rotor to see how badly it's damaged. Better yet you may as well take it to a dealer and get the work done and have the front pads checked.