In the world of motorcycles, performance is a critical aspect. Whether you’re a casual rider or an adrenaline junkie, you’ll want your bike to be at its best. One essential part of your motorcycle’s performance is its braking system, which ensures your safety while on the road. When it comes to the Triumph Street Triple, a popular choice among motorcycle enthusiasts, enhancing the braking performance can significantly upgrade the overall ride experience.
In this article, we’ll discuss how you can improve the braking performance on a Triumph Street Triple with aftermarket brake pads. We’ll walk you through the factors to consider when choosing your pads, the installation process, and how to break them in properly.
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Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Pads
Before you can start improving your braking performance, you need to choose the right aftermarket brake pads. There are numerous options available in the market, each made from different materials and designed for various driving styles and conditions.
There are three main types of brake pads: organic, semi-metallic, and sintered. Organic pads are made from non-metallic fibres, making them softer and quieter. However, they wear down quicker and don’t perform as well in heavy braking conditions. Semi-metallic pads are a mix of metal and organic materials, offering a balance between performance and durability. Lastly, sintered pads are made from metallic particles under high pressure and offer the best performance and durability, but they can also wear down your rotors quicker.
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When choosing your brake pads, consider your driving style and the conditions you usually ride in. For example, if you frequently ride in heavy traffic where constant braking is required, sintered pads might be a good option.
Installing Your Aftermarket Brake Pads
Once you’ve chosen the right brake pads, the next step is installing them. While the process can seem daunting, especially for beginners, it’s actually quite straightforward if you follow the right steps and have the necessary tools.
First, you’ll need to remove the old brake pads. This usually involves removing the brake calliper from the wheel, then removing the pads from the calliper. Take note of the order and orientation of any clips or springs as you remove the old pads, as you’ll need to install the new ones in the same way.
Once the old pads are out, you’ll need to push the brake pistons back into the calliper. This makes room for the new pads, which will be thicker than the old ones. Be careful not to damage the pistons or the brake lines when doing this.
Next, install the new brake pads in the same way the old ones were installed. Make sure they’re securely in place, then re-install the brake calliper.
Breaking In Your Aftermarket Brake Pads
After installing your new aftermarket brake pads, the next crucial step is breaking them in. This process, also known as bedding in, involves transferring an even layer of brake pad material onto the brake rotors through a series of hard stops. This helps to condition the pads and rotors for the optimal braking performance.
To bed in your new brake pads, start by riding your Triumph Street Triple around a quiet area. Gradually build up speed, then firmly apply the brakes to reduce your speed significantly, but don’t come to a complete stop. Repeat this process a few times.
Then, carry out a few hard stops from a higher speed. Once again, don’t come to a full stop, as this can cause uneven pad material transfer.
After the bedding in process, allow your brakes to cool down completely. You’ll then notice a significant improvement in your braking performance.
Maintaining Your Brakes for Optimum Performance
Now that you’ve improved your braking performance with new aftermarket pads, regular maintenance is key to keeping your brakes in top condition. Regularly check your brake pads for wear, and replace them when they’re worn down to the minimum thickness specified by the manufacturer.
Furthermore, keep your brake rotors clean and free from oil or grime, which can affect the effectiveness of your brakes. Regularly check your brake fluid levels too, and replace the fluid if it’s discoloured or has particles floating in it.
In conclusion, enhancing the braking performance on your Triumph Street Triple is achievable with the correct aftermarket pads. It involves choosing the right brake pads, properly installing them, bedding them in, and maintaining your brakes regularly. By following these steps, you’ll not only improve your bike’s performance but also your safety and confidence on the road.
Understanding the Role of Brake Fluid in Brake Performance
The brake fluid plays a crucial role in your Triumph Street Triple’s braking performance. It serves as the link between the brake pedal and the brake pads, enabling you to control the braking force with precision.
Brake fluid operates under high temperatures and pressures and has to be able to resist these conditions without boiling or decomposing. When brake fluid boils, it creates air bubbles which can lead to a spongy brake feel or even brake failure. Therefore, the type of brake fluid you use can have a significant impact on the braking performance.
There are different types of brake fluids available today, namely DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1. DOT 3 and DOT 4 are glycol-based fluids, while DOT 5.1 is silicon-based. The key difference between the three lies in their boiling points, with DOT 5.1 having the highest boiling point and DOT 3 the lowest.
If you often find yourself riding in demanding conditions that require hard braking, it might be worth considering a brake fluid with a high boiling point, like DOT 5.1. On the other hand, if your rides are more laid-back, a DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid should suffice.
Keep in mind, brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which can lower its boiling point. This is why it’s essential to check your brake fluid regularly and replace it if you notice any discolouration or particles in it.
Final Thoughts
Improving the braking performance on your Triumph Street Triple isn’t a one-time job – it’s an ongoing process that requires a bit of knowledge and regular maintenance. From choosing the right aftermarket brake pads to understanding the role of brake fluid, there are several factors to consider and steps to follow.
Remember, your braking system is critical to your safety on the road. Any modifications or upgrades should be done with careful consideration and preferably under the guidance of a professional mechanic. With the right brake pads and a well-maintained braking system, not only will your ride’s performance improve, but you’ll also ride with greater peace of mind knowing your bike is at its best.
To sum it up, safety and performance go hand-in-hand when it comes to motorcycles. Therefore, investing in your braking system, including choosing quality aftermarket brake pads, is an investment worth making for every Triumph Street Triple owner.
Ride safe, and enjoy the improved performance!