Del that toothbrush action made my teath go all funny, then you had to go and use the screwdriver, hurhurr, sent shivers down the spine, you offer such great teachings to us all, I put you up there with gandhi in my book, so I say a BIG thank you, for giving me the courage to work on my own bike, all your how to vids are top knoch.
Hi there Mitch, nearly spat me tea out then ... Ghandi?! Can't see me wearing a bed sheet in the garage any time soon lol! ...but seriously, thank you most kindly my friend, that is really special to hear that and to know that you have grown the courage to do your own work is even more rewarding... it just goes to show that the biggest fear in working on anything is just the fear of the unknown... remember to ask yourself mate, 'how hard can it be?' ... and there's always a video on the net to help you... if you ever get stuck or are unsure on anything, always feel free to give me a shout and I'll do my best to help you mate, have a Happy New Year, Cheers Del
After watching your vids I find myself in my garage the next day working on the bike, it plays on my mind and I can't stop thinking about it until I've done job.
I always use a piston removal pliers to turn the pistons around in the caliper.There is always a part of the piston that you cant get to with the toothbrush and this tool comes in very handy to bring that part of the piston around so you can clean it.
Nice one mate, get them done and I guarantee your brakes will feel crisper and sharper, it will almost feel like you've added braided hoses when you haven't! .. Good luck with it, Cheers Del
Glad I found this vid! I got a f.i 650 naked bandit. After watching this, I jumped outta bed and checked the floating disc and it isnt moving like it supposed to. Im gonna clean the two calipers tomorrow morning including those bobbins, maybe the rear too. It maybe the reason why my brakes are squeaking noisy when applying and even just pushing it when getting out the garage. Thanks a lot for this. Still helping even after 8 years of posting!
Just when I start thinking (stupidly) that I know everything BAM! I've learnt something new. Thanks for the bobbin freeing technique. Been riding, building and maintaining my own bikes for 36 years but fitting the nut and bolt to assist in turning the bobbin is a great idea. Thanks Del, your a star!
The old Caliper Rebuild / Winter Brake Service videos are what brought me to the channel, happy to see it's return! You got it bang on at the start of the video, I feel as if you are one of the few motorcyclists on TH-cam that actually lives in the real world where things cost money. Every other vlogger seems to think that people can afford dealership servicing and 10 different kinds of helmet cam and thousands of pounds in lessons and "Advanced Riding Training" Hope this video takes off and helps a lot of people. You've got the right idea, Del!
haha, thank you so much my friend, your comments made me chuckle! We try to cater for all pockets, but it does seem that these days even one time fat pockets are now a bit empty! And even if it's not about money, then I think learning about the mechanics of your bike and it's current state of maintenance can be beneficial to road safety and, after all, there's not much that's more important than staying upright and fighting another day! Thanks for watching mate, much appreciated, Del
'Tis indeed mate, I like to learn a little something every day too! Today I learned not to ask Penny to sit in the garage all day in the cold with the camera, or you'll get a trolley jack round yer head lol! Good luck with the brake job, I will guarantee it will improve it no end ... good luck, Del!
bobin bolt!!! i think it may well be the cheapest but one of the trickest tools in the box. When i get one tomorrow.You done this vid in 2013 Del and it is still educating. I knew nothing about the bobins im ashamed to say. Many thanks.
Thank you so much for making all these videos. Basic maintenance isn't hard but I find that there are some really basic steps missing from my maintenance manual and there aren't enough photos. Seeing the whole process and having things explained well is extremely helpful. Without your videos I don't think I'd be able to do these things properly or safely.
Thanks Jade, you are very kind... since the advent of YT it's given us the ability to share knowledge and help each other in a way that we couldn't do before and I know what you mean, manuals just don't cut it! Take care and ride safe, thanks for watching, Del
Hi from Australia Del. I must say I really enjoy your videos because not only do you give great tips on mechanics and work ethics but you also are very honest in your opinions which is very admirable. So please keep up the great work and keep those videos coming! Yours Brendan.
Normally I would be a sucker and take my bike to a garage to get things like this done. Since watching your videos, I'll be saving some money on little jobs like this. Thanks Del!
Hi Phil, you are not a sucker by any means, it's exactly what most bikers do these days, but as it's just simple housekeeping then why pay someone to do it for you, after all, you wouldn't call a plumber to come and clean yer bath, would you lol! ...thanks for watching and spend those saved pennies on something nice!
Hi Del. Its nice to find a guy who is down to earth and really good at sharing his knowledge in a way that everyone can understand. I have worked on bikes for years and you've still shown me some great tips. Keep up the good work. Wez. X
Ayup Wez, thanks mate... I'm a firm believer that we never stop learning... I learn things from YT too and make sure I pass them on! Thanks for watching my friend, we really appreciate the support, Del
I really think basic stuff like this should be part of the test,I sorted a mates brakes out a few weeks ago he had owned the bike 3 years and never had his brakes checked.He couldn't believe how much crap i got out of them and how much better they worked afterwards glad you re visited this topic
Thanks Gaz, I appreciate that as it was a bit of a question whether it was worth going over old ground... but as you proved, there's always a newbie who doesn't yet know the things we found out the hard way... well done on getting him sorted out mate, that's the spirit of biking right there! Take care and ride safe buddy! Del
Delboy, this was perhaps literally a lifesaver. I clean my bike generally but during the winter have not been as diligent about intentionally cleaning the brakes as in your video. When I checked today, sure, enough I had the telltale hiss and sluggishness on the front wheel that says salt and grime build-up. Cleaned it right up and it now spins free. Thank you. Later this week, new fork springs, and a TTP#3 mod (O2, baffle/snorkel removal, and new remap).
Hi Paul. Thats great news, its the worst time of year for brakes clogging up and the danger is real...nice work.. and the engine mods will transform the bike too, good luck with it, and ride safe sir... all the best.. Del.
I learnt how to strip and rebuild my calipers thanks to your vids even when you post vids of jobs that i know no how to do i still watch as you always seem to have some great little tip to share . Recently did calipers on my gsx750f though i forgot about bobbin tip as it was a while back when i watched last caliper vid so will know be checking and if necessarry doing the job i cant express enough how grateful i am for these vids has when i did not know how to work on my bike i tried to find local course somewhere on bike maintenance and there was nothing around you can read books but it is nothing like being able to watch the job done and someone sharing there knowledge with you Thanks again del
Thank you kindly my friend, sadly that's the way of the world these days... the dealers will never run courses on bike maintenance cos that would be like sending the golden goose out to live on it's own! Once upon a time the brotherhood of bikers would rally and mates would help each other, sharing knowledge to grow as we go, but today's world seems more about the internet and booking it in to the dealer and spending an hour in the waiting room with a coffee! That's why we load them like this to spread the word in the new way! Thanks for your kind comments, mate, we really appreciate it, Happy New Year, Del & Penny
Hi Del! I just did the break cleaning on my NISSIN calipers today, stuck to your "how-to" and it worked perfectly! Thanks for all your advice! Keep going! Ride safe
I tried your front brake caliper rebuild but was beaten by some very old two pot Tokico calipers on my Sv650. The seals had got stuck up the side of one of the 2 pots and I couldn't get the piston out. I've order some refurbished ones for 70 and saved myself the labour at least. Great work on the videos.
Got my bike a few months ago and the brakes had been giving me trouble for a while. I left It into the dealer a few weeks ago and they were still feeling dodgy. So after watching this earlier today I decided to go out and do some investigation and found out the brakes had never been touched and had no meat left on them at all with 6 out of 8 pots seized. Just wanted to say thanks for probably saving me from something serious.
You're welcome buddy, glad you got it diagnosed, keeping your bike safe and sound is all important... thanks for watching, ride safe my friend, all the best, Del
i just want to echo everyone elses comments and just say cheers for doing these kinds a vids Del. i think i said to you before that once i seen your caliper rebuild i went and cleaned mine as they were binding. awesome vids and very easy to watch and listen to you. i found myself watching your coolant change on the busa last night lol i may get a busa in the future and i now know how to change the coolant :) cheers Del
Ironically I had sticky front pads on my recent bike purchase, and i had someone look at them. The pins were filthy and stuck as were the pads and the bolts that we holding the caliper on. I watched the guy who fixed it for me cleans the pins, pad, caliper pistons and put copper grease on the pins. The brakes no longer squeak and feel so much better. Cost me about £75 quid to have them done so this video and learning things like this really really help, May try doing the back myself now once I have some brake cleaner. Hope all is well, great video thank.
There you go mate, proof absolute that it is indeed about that cost and works as described... whether you pay for it to be done, or do it yourself, is not so important, it's the fact THAT you have it done that is vital... I can't stress enough how lethal it is to having a binding front brake, so whether it's DIY or 'book it in' just carrying out the work, either way, is what matters! Thanks for watching and have a great New Year, Del
Always practical, timely advice :) . Del your a star ... I actually did need this as a reminder to do mine ,,, Oh and may I take this opportunity to wish you & the marvellous Penny a Happy & prosperous New Year :).
Ayup mate, good to hear from you, it's odd how this video always seems to hit at the right time, but then this time of year everyone's brakes need more attention than usual! Good luck with it, hope it goes well. Thanks for your kind support, Penny say 'hi' and Have a Happy New Year mate, D&P
Thanks so much for this video. You cover all the useful bits that a novice like me needs. I've just got myself a little CBF 250 , so will be more fun to work on than my old scooter. Just come back in from giving the brakes a good clean, and it's only gone and worked! Not seen any motorbike videos come close for clarity and informativeness - all inspiring confidence.
Sure thing brother, keeps those brakes fresh and crisp, good for when an ol' lady steps out in front of ya lol ! Ride safe in the sunshine, all the best, Del & Penny!
Ive just got back into bikes after a 10yr break and wanted to say how useful your vids are for reminding me and others how and what we should be doing to keep our bikes well looked after and safe to ride on the roads. Keep them coming mate great job...
Thanks Ary, you're most welcome mate, I'm glad the videos can be of use to you... always drop us a line if you need any help, we're happy to pass on anything we know that may help you! Ride safe mate, Del
Just wanted to thank you for your videos, I cleaned all the pistons as instructed and OMG I have a new bike! It goes like S...t of a stick. Just shows what a bucket of hot water, toothbrush and elbow grease can do. Thanks mate
Great video. Never saw anyone explain and clean floating rotors. I had a bike that I had to keep pulling the calipers off and cleaning. I bet it was the rotors that needed cleaning. Thanks.
Hey mate, thanks for that... with the number of new riders qualifying every day it's important to refresh little tricks like this to keep them safe! Thanks for watching mate, Del
First time viewer, awesome video, awesome look on the bikes. I've got to see all the videos. l. I know guys who've literally destroyed bikes by being too damn lazy to do, or pay to have basic maintenance done. I learned a lot today. Brake wise, I thought I was doing enough changing out the brake fluid every year in the winter. Now I have another fun garage task for the cold Canadian evenings.
Hi buddy, and a very warm welcome to the Channel, it's great to have you aboard! Glad you like the videos... plenty for you to look at and if you ever need a tip, please feel free to ask any time, always happy to help... you are right about maintenance, more damaged can be done by neglect than by abuse! Hope it's not too snowy where you are, I know how your winter's can get... ride safe and take care, thanks for watching, Del & Penny
Hi Del great tip on maintaining the bobbins. Might be useful to viewers when pumping out the pistons I use an old brake pad on a long bolt with a couple of nuts to hold it in the centre of the space just to make sure they are not pumped right out. Happy new year to you and Penny. Cheers Rich
Hi Rich, great tip there mate, old pad or new pad, it's a well known trick to poke one single pad back in... or even just get your worthy assistant to hold it in place! I love YT, what a wealth of knowledge we have between us eh? Happy New Year Rich, ride safe mate and thanks for watching, Del
Russell, every two weeks?...and I thought I was OCD lol! ... seriously mate, unless you ride in the gobi desert there's no need to do them that often... once you've got them free running you can just lift the wheel and rinse out the calipers with running water at the end of a wet ride and that will prevent the crud building up so quick... every 6 months is usually more than enough... but hey, what am I saying, you can't do too much maintenance can you? ... ride safe my friend, Del
I dont wanna blow up your arse but thanks to you I have saved soooo much money on workshop fees I feel like I have failed if i have to take the bike into a shop. I do 80% of my own work now, jobs I cant do is due to not having the tooling and the bike is 13 years old and feels as tight as a 4 year old bike. I get nearly as much enjoyment working on it as i do riding it.
Glad I discovered your channel, your instructional vids have inspired me to tackle some pretty basic jobs which I'm ashamed to admit I have left to mechanics in the past. My brakes will get some overdue attention very soon.
Well done mate, glad to hear it, I think we all get a bit lazy now and again as it's so easy to book it in and pay the bill! Good on yer mate and good luck with it!
Hi Del and Penny, Since the last time you did this video I've cleaned a couple of different calipers so a big thank you for giving me the knowledge and confidence to do the job saving me plenty of pennies. Have a good new year.
Hi Christian, good to hear from you mate, and I'm glad the videos have worked for you, that's why we take the time to post them... your confidence will now grow by itself, all you need to do is constantly ask yourself 'how hard can it be?' ... all the best for the New Year, Cheers Del & Penny
Thanks Ade, always good to hear from you mate, and thanks for your kind support, I always think this kind of stuff is obvious, but you can guarantee when you post it up, you'll find half a dozen people who've never heard of brake bobbins and need to do it NOW! ...really appreciate your continued support mate, means a lot fellah, take care and ride safe, and have a great 2014! (oh and btw, will we be seeing you at the Bulldog Bash?)
may happen, who knows !! will try and boot ya front door for a cuppa at some point during 2014 if nowt else. keep safe both and a lucky, healthy 2014 to you both. cheers Ade
ade theblade Now that I'll hold you too mate, just gizza a bit of notice and I'll gather up some of the Collective and we can head out for breakfast... what's not to like!
Moonfleet41 PS My rear brake was squeaking quite often and not grabbing as it should so I cleaned it today as you show in the vid, including the bobbins, and it's like a new brake! My only problem was getting the saddlebag back on. Those bolts seldom seem to line up just right. Anyway, thanks again Del. Keep up the great advice and instruction, buddy.
Good job, enjoyed your chat with nt8 thanks for the reminder I saw the last one you did but the if you made a video every time I'd watch must to activate my little gray cells and Herquele Perot would say. Ride safe my friend
Hi Ed, yep, I didn't know that Tom loaded that up, but glad it could help others watching... really appreciate your kind support over this year mate, Happy New Year, Del
Top stuff Carleton, don't forget the Copper Slip as well... take yer time and make a good job of it, you'll be amazed at the improvement you feel when you ride! Good luck, let us know how you get on, Del
Very good, that you point this very important maintenance work, on the brake calipers. I do mine also every 6 months, and even if i don't trust it, i check it in between. You must know your motorcycle by every bolt and nut (well that's how i think about it). Good work Del!!!! ( and Penny for the good camera work).
Too right Joppie... I do pretty much know that bike back to front now, but that's not always a good thing cos I know all it's faults as well lol! ... you are right with Penny, it was a joy to have her back at the helm and makes the editing ten times easier lol!...also, she makes me tea unlike the tripod that just sits there haha!
Great video, I would recommend putting the pads back in the same sides that they came out of, as they wear to the disc, just to save bedding the old pads back in, keep the videos coming love them!
Hi mate, that's not bad advice, provided they are wearing evenly... sometimes the fluid entry side will get a little bit more wear, so effectively rotating them means you'll get the longest life out of the set... cheers for the insight, that's why I love YT... Happy New Year, Del
How good are you at explaining how to do work on a bike ,never had the balls before ,watched afew of your videos and now have ago at things i wouldnt have dreamed of touching before now ,,thanks i owe you big time :)
Yet another cracking vid!!! Got quoted £180 + vat to service front brakes (robbing t#*#s) thanks for the videos and tips well appreciated. All the best to ya both for the New year also.
hahaha... one hundred and eighty phuqin' quid ??? so 200 sovs with the VAT?? ...mate, that's damn near the price of a pair of tyres and outright bloody offensive...the chap should be ashamed of himself... but hey, at least you would have got a free coffee while you wait, so mustn't grumble eh?! ... Happy New Year, D&P
Just got turned on to your channel, love the videos keep them up. Just bought a 34 year old bike and had to completely overhaul the brake system. Now if the previous owner had done even a little bit of maintenance like this... would have saved me a lot of work!
Hi buddy, welcome aboard, yeah, if only people would just even clean the salt off after a winter ride, just a watering can with sime soapy water in will make a world of difference... ! Thanks for watching.. all the best. Del.
Nice1 Delboy,well confident way to explain and certainly one to listen to and easy to follow,so thanks for these vids you do,great stuff so you [and the wife!] take care and ride safe,ok
Moonfleet41 no prob!...I'm being advised to use 'thread lock' on the actual caliper mounting bolts ,and the explanation is because the reason why the 'manual' says to replace these bolts,is because they would have been 'locked' from new [I'm not sure what they're like as yet,as I've not done this on the bike yet,just waiting for the kit to arrive,] but didn't you say NOT to do that ?..cant find the vid now [sods law,innit!] I'm sure you did? Thanks again for the 'common sense' thinking about what's going on,and making us 'think' about the job properly...well good!
I was just going to comment.. I didnt know about the bobbing cleaning part :) then you said it :P ..... really been enjoying your stuff ... guess i'll add that to the list of things to finish off this week.
Yes, it's a little known trick, that makes a big difference to the crispness and performance of your brakes, specially on higher mileage bikes... well done for doing it yourself, good luck with it!
once again del great advice if i had watched this vid 12 months ago i wouldn't have had to strip my calliper down :P (using another of your fantastic vids) I think there should be a link to you channel in every bike manual lol this house work as you call it is priceless 1st class work del always a fan :)
Thank you kindly Andrew, you are very generous! At least now you've done your brakes you can keep them washed out like this every 6 months, then you won't need to re-build them again... the need to re-build only comes from long term neglect and after 3yrs not being washed, any caliper will need stripping... I guess that's why they sell seals eh?! ... Thanks for all your kind support, more to come for 2014, so ride safe and have a good one, Cheers, D&P
I love the way you and Penny take the mic lol. Along with heated grips (decided to fit them myself :/ lol) overhauling the brakes is my first job on my bandit, as they are the most important part of any bike except the tyres, just so I know where I am with them and they are ready for the worst winter can throw at it Save riding and I shall be on the road hopefully in the next 10 days
Wow that's great news Mark... finally getting back on the road! I bet you can't wait! ... I'm proud of you for doing the grips yourself, it really isn't hard, is it?... and with the brake job, take yer time and just be as meticulous as you can... and obviously, let me know if you need any help at all... ride safe for the new year mate, and have a good one, Del
Great information,,, Guess I am OCD, I cant do just the front I have to do the back also weather they need it or not. Just a little niche I have. lol Very well done on the clean up of the brakes brother. And congrats on getting the remap done. I know the dealer had to be impressed with the way you did the pipes. Ride Safe......
Hey buddy, yes, you are right about the rears, but as you can see, it was just a simple reminder video... I did the rears too and, in fact, doing Penny's rear on the Sportster tomorrow as we've been a little thin on Harley videos this year and we've been asked recently to show how to take the rear caliper off a Sportster as it is a little odd design... and not obvious how it comes off. It's been great to have your support brother, and we are looking forward to throwing up some great fun & games for the new year... not least a side mount fabrication for Penny's Harley and possibly some paintwork if I can persuade her to hurry up and choose a colour other than black lol! Ride safe buddy, keep yer boots in the breeze! All the best Del & Penny
Hey Del. Been watching your videos from the start. My ZX12R had 6 pot Tocikos when I got it and I was never happy with the front brakes. Bit of research and especially your informative vids had me buying the very same Nissin 4 pot callipers from a bandit. I rebuilt them with new seals as per the earlier vids and replaced the disks in the process. Being fairly happy with the result I thought I wouldn't need to touch the brakes for a while as we don't get your winters here in Oz. Nevertheless i watched this vid and thought I'd service them anyway. Glad I did cause now the ZX has the brakes it always needed - 2 fingers is all I need now. So thanks again to you for the great demos and to Penny for the camera work. Happy new year to you both. Cheers
Hi Bernie, thanks for watching mate, you found the ZX12's weakest link then? Those brakes are awful... they gunge up with dust in about 6months and that's with bone dry use... if you just wash out your new Nissin's once every 6months in the way we showed, you should never need to strip them! Ride safe my friend, that's a mighty fiesty bike you have there! Take care, Del
It will be no surprise that I'm already very familiar with this routine, but it's still a pleasure to watch you explain real world maintenance so well. The first time I tackled this job and a pad change I knew very little, and certainly there wasn't anything as good as this to guide me. If you haven't done it before, have a go. It's not hard and the difference in braking is really noticeable. Being able to stop is quite important! I always do the back as diligently as the ratio of front to rear braking is more even in wet and slippery conditions, so the rear gets more use in the winter. If you've got an underslung caliper like the Bandit has, as it really collects the crud and typically it only has the one pair of pistons, so it doesn't take much to erode it's efficiency. If you're on a bike with a rear drum brake the same principles apply. Keep it clean and free moving, check the seals and the shoes and springs. They are less efficient than a disk brake. All the more reason for ensuring they're in tip top condition. Timely advice Del, and superbly covered as ever. Glad you got the remap done. I take it you could notice a marked difference?
Hi Peter, thanks for those wise words mate, well put indeed, especially about the drums... the re-map made a slight difference, nothing much in power as that's not what the re-map is about, the bike already picked up a little bit of grunt with the K&N filter and free flowing pipes, but what the re-map addressed was a slight throttle lag off tick over and a little lean running (registered as 0.5 initially, which as also addressed), now it pulls clean and smooth right through to the red line... at which it naturally sounds glorious! Can't wait for some multi-storey car park action and see how many car alarms we can set off lol! You think you grow out of loud exhausts, but then you ride one, and you realise you don't... I'm such a child lol! Take care mate, hope the bike search is going well... Del
Hi Josh... yes I recently discovered that many people believe you have to disconnect the hydraulics, but as you can see, there's no need whatsoever, just dunk it in a bucket of hot soapy water and get busy with an old toothbrush! Thanks for watching mate, Happy New Year, Del
Thanks Del, you confirmed that I was cleaning my brakes properly, but I have to confess that I wasn't aware of the floating bobbins. Cheers mate, will check my bobbins in future :-)
Cheers Robin, yeah keeping the bobbins free will make the brakes feel crisp and sharp...many riders mistake gummed up disc for air in the brake lines and spend hours bleeding them to no avail...
It's great!!!. Now I know the importance of clean the disc. Tomorrow Ithink my new brembo pads are arrived and I will compare with ones are instaled; I decided if change or not; but I clean the calipers and disc; that's sure. Thanks for shared and for you very good explanation. For me is not easy the folllow (isn't my language), but I learning very much when I listen and see your work. Thanks. Gaaasss! ✌️✌️✌️.
Excellent video, was always afraid to tackle the breaks...but after watching your vid, as easy as pie and saves me £ ;) Cheers! Keep up the good work mate!!!
Hi Mike, that's great news! We really love it when someone finds use for a video... that's what they're there for, always feel free to drop us a line any time you need any help mate, Del
Thanks Terry & Lori, thanks so much for your feedback, great to know the video can help you, it's good to do your own aye ! All the best to you both, take care, D&P!
Ayup BK, sad you had to change your username, it was the best on the Tube! That's why I loaded this video again, or re-made it, just to drive the message home that it is, indeed, that time of year again!
Great video Delboy. Thanks for putting it together. As a fairly new biker with an older ZX6R these tips will prove extremely helpful. I've done a lot of work on cars previously, but wasnt too sure about working on the bike, however the brakes will be getting striped down and cleaned this weekend! Cheers!!
Thank you kindly Sir, and welcome aboard! Glad you enjoy the videos and that we are able to help you in some way, just passing simple tips and maintenance in the name of good housekeeping! Thanks for watching, Del
Great video. I love the project videos, but the how to's is what me got subscribed in the first place and give me as a total newbie to motorcycle maintenance the confidence to do it. I'm actually gonna work on this tomorrow. Have some other stuff planned for the bike and this will be great to do as well. Btw, I didn't know about the free moving brake disk (newbie, remember). Very good to know and understand why they cleaning.
Hello mate, that's very kind of you.... I guess you could say the 'How To' videos are why we started in the first place ... we make sure also that we try to include some how-to tips in the project videos to keep that theme going. Good luck with your work today, hope it goes well for you... obviously, feel free to ask if you need any help... ride safe my friend and have a Happy New Year, Del
Another great video.Getting back into bikes after a long lay off,definately be doing my own work ,may even give the car brakes a clean up Be safe out there
Great video as always, ive got a pad change coming up, and I wouldn't have touched the brakes before I had come across your channel. So once again thanks for the money you guys have saved me which is running into the hundreds now. Happy new year to you and PP.
Hi Andy... i love to hear that mate, the fact that we have been able to just show another rider how truly easy it is to do these simple jobs, and inspire you to learn more, makes it all worth while....it also means you get to enjoy the full range of activities that comes with owning a bike....there's more to bike ownership than just riding it aye... have a great new year mate, and enjoy 2014... cheers, Del.
Alright bud - good sensible vid, I used your calliper repair vid and cleaning vid in past. Top info for the new rider and veteran alike, keep safe - cheers, Nige.
Thanks Nige, really appreciate that mate, I just thought we'd re-do that little nugget as not only is it a constant housekeeping job, but there are new riders joining the flock every day and with the amount of new subs in the last few months it's good to drive these basic essentials home... thanks for your kind support mate, have a safe and happy 2014... Del & Penny
I had an issue with my 600 Bandit, dust seals coming out with the piston where I hadn't cleaned them for a while. And new seals from Suzuki will cost you £43. I bought a set of reconditioned calipers to get me put of trouble until I have the time to rebuild these ones. So well worth spending the few minutes it takes to keep them clean! Keep up the good videos Del and a Happy New Year to you and Penny!
Hi mate...£43 for 4 rubber rings?... thats outright bloody robbery mate.. get the pattern ones, i pay £8 a set and never had a single issue with them.... good luck with it mate..happy new year, Del.
that was great tip I been riding for over 30 years and I never heard of these bobbies thanks I going to do it next weekend as I ride all year around thanks again
I remember watching the first guide last year -I think I viewed it 20 times before getting the balls to take the callipers off :o) Couldn't believe how simple a job it was when I eventually got the guts to do it!
There you go mate, it's like I've always said, the greatest fear on working on your bike is the fear of the unknown, coupled with a little bit of fear of looking a fool if you get stuck, but just ask yourself, 'how hard can it be?' and before you know it, you've learned something new... and more importantly, saved enough money to take the Mrs for a bag of chips and a Brown Ale lol!... ride safe fellah, and have a good 2014, Del
Moonfleet41 Of course, now I've just done the job again and wouldn't you know it, one of the pistons popped out on me while I was busy working free one of the others :$ Never mind, the fluid needed changing anyway and I'm pleasantly surprised how easy it is to bleed the lines on the Triumph compared to the DRZ :o)
Hello to you, Mikael here from sweden! I found you on youtube about a year ago and i have got a lot of god interesting tips from you. Here is one from me to you. use ceramic grease insted, maybe in the short term it works applying copperpaste on the threads and on the backside of the brake pads, but in time there is a risk of doing so.The copper will start a chemical reaction between different alloys which causes it to rust. ceramic grease costing a bit more but it is the better choise, i have also found out that it eats up the rust, next tim you change tyres on your car, try it and you will se!
Cheers for all you awesome videos Del,Will be saving myself alot of money by getting in there and doing it myself,Just bought myself a 2001 TL1000S and seen that the discs wern't floating and were stiff as ,so ill be heading to the shop first thing in the morning to bye some brake cleaner so i can free them up,we dont get salt on our roads down in New Zealand but do get ice grit so all the calipers and bobbins still build up with crap.
snappalips Hi mate, great choice on the bike... the TL1000s is a beast, and really good fun to ride...good luck with your break disc clean it should make a big difference if they're gummed up...!
Thank you for this video. I had no idea of the floating break disc. I hope i can find a vid from you on how to re-surface the disc to stop squeeky breaks.👍
Nice Video Del, it makes you wonder just how many riders put their bikes away for the winter year after year and never check the simple but most important parts of their bikes, Copper slip is awesome stuff, Old School as far as I'm concerned anyway, Ride Safe Buddy.
Wadup Skeggs, great to hear from you mate, oddly enough, it's not just riding in the salt and crap that causes calipers to seize up and brakes to bind, leaving them in the garage in the damp for 3 months can achieve the same end... condensation causes the crud to expand and rust up solid, so even if you don't ride through winter, it's the first job people should do in the Spring... thanks for watching me old mate. ride safe, Del
Moonfleet41 so right Buddy, it was nice to see you in a Hangout the other day with NT8, you'll have to jump in one sometime when where on we got one going most nights, but I don't suggest for one minute that you stay anywhere as long as some of us do, not if you want to make work the following day anyway, lol.
Del that toothbrush action made my teath go all funny, then you had to go and use the screwdriver, hurhurr, sent shivers down the spine, you offer such great teachings to us all, I put you up there with gandhi in my book, so I say a BIG thank you, for giving me the courage to work on my own bike, all your how to vids are top knoch.
Hi there Mitch, nearly spat me tea out then ... Ghandi?! Can't see me wearing a bed sheet in the garage any time soon lol! ...but seriously, thank you most kindly my friend, that is really special to hear that and to know that you have grown the courage to do your own work is even more rewarding... it just goes to show that the biggest fear in working on anything is just the fear of the unknown... remember to ask yourself mate, 'how hard can it be?' ... and there's always a video on the net to help you... if you ever get stuck or are unsure on anything, always feel free to give me a shout and I'll do my best to help you mate, have a Happy New Year, Cheers Del
All these old videos are golden as well.
After watching your vids I find myself in my garage the next day working on the bike, it plays on my mind and I can't stop thinking about it until I've done job.
hahaha... the power of suggestion eh?! and I think maybe a little OCD in there too brother, I feel your pain lol! Good luck with it, Del
I always use a piston removal pliers to turn the pistons around in the caliper.There is always a part of the piston that you cant get to with the toothbrush and this tool comes in very handy to bring that part of the piston around so you can clean it.
Went out after watching this and checked my disc bobbins, and yep, they were seized.. great video, thanks mate.
Nice one mate, get them done and I guarantee your brakes will feel crisper and sharper, it will almost feel like you've added braided hoses when you haven't! .. Good luck with it, Cheers Del
Done on all 3 bikes, cheers mate
Glad I found this vid! I got a f.i 650 naked bandit. After watching this, I jumped outta bed and checked the floating disc and it isnt moving like it supposed to. Im gonna clean the two calipers tomorrow morning including those bobbins, maybe the rear too. It maybe the reason why my brakes are squeaking noisy when applying and even just pushing it when getting out the garage. Thanks a lot for this. Still helping even after 8 years of posting!
Just when I start thinking (stupidly) that I know everything BAM! I've learnt something new. Thanks for the bobbin freeing technique. Been riding, building and maintaining my own bikes for 36 years but fitting the nut and bolt to assist in turning the bobbin is a great idea. Thanks Del, your a star!
Wow...love it...off to check if Ive Bobbins on the Triumph!!
I think you have Linda
The old Caliper Rebuild / Winter Brake Service videos are what brought me to the channel, happy to see it's return! You got it bang on at the start of the video, I feel as if you are one of the few motorcyclists on TH-cam that actually lives in the real world where things cost money. Every other vlogger seems to think that people can afford dealership servicing and 10 different kinds of helmet cam and thousands of pounds in lessons and "Advanced Riding Training"
Hope this video takes off and helps a lot of people. You've got the right idea, Del!
haha, thank you so much my friend, your comments made me chuckle! We try to cater for all pockets, but it does seem that these days even one time fat pockets are now a bit empty! And even if it's not about money, then I think learning about the mechanics of your bike and it's current state of maintenance can be beneficial to road safety and, after all, there's not much that's more important than staying upright and fighting another day! Thanks for watching mate, much appreciated, Del
Perfect timing I have mine to do tomorrow. The floating disc bobbins is news to me. Everydays a school day.
'Tis indeed mate, I like to learn a little something every day too! Today I learned not to ask Penny to sit in the garage all day in the cold with the camera, or you'll get a trolley jack round yer head lol! Good luck with the brake job, I will guarantee it will improve it no end ... good luck, Del!
bobin bolt!!! i think it may well be the cheapest but one of the trickest tools in the box. When i get one tomorrow.You done this vid in 2013 Del and it is still educating.
I knew nothing about the bobins im ashamed to say.
Many thanks.
natural teacher, so much easier to follow than some of the other vids
Thank you very much for your kind words!
Thank you so much for making all these videos. Basic maintenance isn't hard but I find that there are some really basic steps missing from my maintenance manual and there aren't enough photos. Seeing the whole process and having things explained well is extremely helpful. Without your videos I don't think I'd be able to do these things properly or safely.
Thanks Jade, you are very kind... since the advent of YT it's given us the ability to share knowledge and help each other in a way that we couldn't do before and I know what you mean, manuals just don't cut it! Take care and ride safe, thanks for watching, Del
Hi from Australia Del. I must say I really enjoy your videos because not only do you give great tips on mechanics and work ethics but you also are very honest in your opinions which is very admirable. So please keep up the great work and keep those videos coming! Yours Brendan.
Thanks Brendan 👍, I really appreciate that mate, we're glad you enjoy the videos!
Normally I would be a sucker and take my bike to a garage to get things like this done. Since watching your videos, I'll be saving some money on little jobs like this. Thanks Del!
Hi Phil, you are not a sucker by any means, it's exactly what most bikers do these days, but as it's just simple housekeeping then why pay someone to do it for you, after all, you wouldn't call a plumber to come and clean yer bath, would you lol! ...thanks for watching and spend those saved pennies on something nice!
Hi Del. Its nice to find a guy who is down to earth and really good at sharing his knowledge in a way that everyone can understand. I have worked on bikes for years and you've still shown me some great tips. Keep up the good work. Wez. X
Ayup Wez, thanks mate... I'm a firm believer that we never stop learning... I learn things from YT too and make sure I pass them on! Thanks for watching my friend, we really appreciate the support, Del
I really think basic stuff like this should be part of the test,I sorted a mates brakes out a few weeks ago he had owned the bike 3 years and never had his brakes checked.He couldn't believe how much crap i got out of them and how much better they worked afterwards
glad you re visited this topic
Thanks Gaz, I appreciate that as it was a bit of a question whether it was worth going over old ground... but as you proved, there's always a newbie who doesn't yet know the things we found out the hard way... well done on getting him sorted out mate, that's the spirit of biking right there! Take care and ride safe buddy! Del
You should have your own TV show on motorbike maintenance 👍👌
Best channel!! Always complete and reliable information. Tomorrow is caliper Day! Cheers
Good luck Timo, gave fun with it buddy. !
Delboy, this was perhaps literally a lifesaver. I clean my bike generally but during the winter have not been as diligent about intentionally cleaning the brakes as in your video. When I checked today, sure, enough I had the telltale hiss and sluggishness on the front wheel that says salt and grime build-up. Cleaned it right up and it now spins free. Thank you.
Later this week, new fork springs, and a TTP#3 mod (O2, baffle/snorkel removal, and new remap).
Hi Paul. Thats great news, its the worst time of year for brakes clogging up and the danger is real...nice work.. and the engine mods will transform the bike too, good luck with it, and ride safe sir... all the best.. Del.
I learnt how to strip and rebuild my calipers thanks to your vids even when you post vids of jobs that i know no how to do i still watch as you always seem to have some great little tip to share . Recently did calipers on my gsx750f though i forgot about bobbin tip as it was a while back when i watched last caliper vid so will know be checking and if necessarry doing the job i cant express enough how grateful i am for these vids has when i did not know how to work on my bike i tried to find local course somewhere on bike maintenance and there was nothing around you can read books but it is nothing like being able to watch the job done and someone sharing there knowledge with you
Thanks again del
Thank you kindly my friend, sadly that's the way of the world these days... the dealers will never run courses on bike maintenance cos that would be like sending the golden goose out to live on it's own! Once upon a time the brotherhood of bikers would rally and mates would help each other, sharing knowledge to grow as we go, but today's world seems more about the internet and booking it in to the dealer and spending an hour in the waiting room with a coffee! That's why we load them like this to spread the word in the new way! Thanks for your kind comments, mate, we really appreciate it, Happy New Year, Del & Penny
Hi Del! I just did the break cleaning on my NISSIN calipers today, stuck to your "how-to" and it worked perfectly! Thanks for all your advice! Keep going! Ride safe
Thanks Florian, well done and I'm glad the video was of use to you... you now have nice clean calipers lol! Thanks for letting me know mate, Del
I tried your front brake caliper rebuild but was beaten by some very old two pot Tokico calipers on my Sv650. The seals had got stuck up the side of one of the 2 pots and I couldn't get the piston out. I've order some refurbished ones for 70 and saved myself the labour at least. Great work on the videos.
Got my bike a few months ago and the brakes had been giving me trouble for a while. I left It into the dealer a few weeks ago and they were still feeling dodgy. So after watching this earlier today I decided to go out and do some investigation and found out the brakes had never been touched and had no meat left on them at all with 6 out of 8 pots seized. Just wanted to say thanks for probably saving me from something serious.
You're welcome buddy, glad you got it diagnosed, keeping your bike safe and sound is all important... thanks for watching, ride safe my friend, all the best, Del
Some very important points you bring to people's attention. Great stuff as usual.
Thanks WA...appreciate you watching mate.. ride safe.. Del.
Invaluable instruction and advise. Like a lot of folks here, I enjoy a lot of good help from you... just want to say thanks. Safe journeys, mate.
Thank you kindly Sir, appeciate you watching the videos, ride safe yourself mate...
Hi Delboy. The exhaust came out great. Thanks for the tips on brakes.
Absolutely brilliant video Delboy!! Many many thanks…. learnt a hell of a lot. 😃
Thanks mate, old video, so really glad it can still help..
Very informative no bull real world information that will save you money 👌👌👌
i just want to echo everyone elses comments and just say cheers for doing these kinds a vids Del. i think i said to you before that once i seen your caliper rebuild i went and cleaned mine as they were binding. awesome vids and very easy to watch and listen to you. i found myself watching your coolant change on the busa last night lol i may get a busa in the future and i now know how to change the coolant :) cheers Del
Ironically I had sticky front pads on my recent bike purchase, and i had someone look at them. The pins were filthy and stuck as were the pads and the bolts that we holding the caliper on. I watched the guy who fixed it for me cleans the pins, pad, caliper pistons and put copper grease on the pins. The brakes no longer squeak and feel so much better. Cost me about £75 quid to have them done so this video and learning things like this really really help, May try doing the back myself now once I have some brake cleaner. Hope all is well, great video thank.
There you go mate, proof absolute that it is indeed about that cost and works as described... whether you pay for it to be done, or do it yourself, is not so important, it's the fact THAT you have it done that is vital... I can't stress enough how lethal it is to having a binding front brake, so whether it's DIY or 'book it in' just carrying out the work, either way, is what matters! Thanks for watching and have a great New Year, Del
Always practical, timely advice :) . Del your a star ... I actually did need this as a reminder to do mine ,,, Oh and may I take this opportunity to wish you & the marvellous Penny a Happy & prosperous New Year :).
Ayup mate, good to hear from you, it's odd how this video always seems to hit at the right time, but then this time of year everyone's brakes need more attention than usual! Good luck with it, hope it goes well. Thanks for your kind support, Penny say 'hi' and Have a Happy New Year mate, D&P
Thanks so much for this video. You cover all the useful bits that a novice like me needs. I've just got myself a little CBF 250 , so will be more fun to work on than my old scooter. Just come back in from giving the brakes a good clean, and it's only gone and worked!
Not seen any motorbike videos come close for clarity and informativeness - all inspiring confidence.
Hi Kevin, You're most welcome mate. Glad to help, and have fun with your projects. !
I'm at it right now cleaning up and checking stuff out on the bandit , that bit about the bobbins got me I never knew that. Thanks brov.
Sure thing brother, keeps those brakes fresh and crisp, good for when an ol' lady steps out in front of ya lol ! Ride safe in the sunshine, all the best, Del & Penny!
Ive just got back into bikes after a 10yr break and wanted to say how useful your vids are for reminding me and others how and what we should be doing to keep our bikes well looked after and safe to ride on the roads.
Keep them coming mate great job...
Thanks Ary, you're most welcome mate, I'm glad the videos can be of use to you... always drop us a line if you need any help, we're happy to pass on anything we know that may help you! Ride safe mate, Del
Just wanted to thank you for your videos, I cleaned all the pistons as instructed and OMG I have a new bike! It goes like S...t of a stick. Just shows what a bucket of hot water, toothbrush and elbow grease can do. Thanks mate
There you go Dave,,,,its just a bit of house keeping aye... well done mate, now you can pass it on aye.. thanks for watching... cheers, Del.
Great video. Never saw anyone explain and clean floating rotors. I had a bike that I had to keep pulling the calipers off and cleaning. I bet it was the rotors that needed cleaning. Thanks.
Remembered this from last time. Had to watch again though for the entertainment factor. Great HowTo again Del and Great camera work Penn.
Hey mate, thanks for that... with the number of new riders qualifying every day it's important to refresh little tricks like this to keep them safe! Thanks for watching mate, Del
Fantastic Del..Just been going through some of your maintenance vids..so helpful..
First time viewer, awesome video, awesome look on the bikes. I've got to see all the videos. l. I know guys who've literally destroyed bikes by being too damn lazy to do, or pay to have basic maintenance done. I learned a lot today. Brake wise, I thought I was doing enough changing out the brake fluid every year in the winter. Now I have another fun garage task for the cold Canadian evenings.
Hi buddy, and a very warm welcome to the Channel, it's great to have you aboard! Glad you like the videos... plenty for you to look at and if you ever need a tip, please feel free to ask any time, always happy to help... you are right about maintenance, more damaged can be done by neglect than by abuse! Hope it's not too snowy where you are, I know how your winter's can get... ride safe and take care, thanks for watching, Del & Penny
Hi Del great tip on maintaining the bobbins. Might be useful to viewers when pumping out the pistons I use an old brake pad on a long bolt with a couple of nuts to hold it in the centre of the space just to make sure they are not pumped right out. Happy new year to you and Penny. Cheers Rich
Hi Rich, great tip there mate, old pad or new pad, it's a well known trick to poke one single pad back in... or even just get your worthy assistant to hold it in place! I love YT, what a wealth of knowledge we have between us eh? Happy New Year Rich, ride safe mate and thanks for watching, Del
now this is why I subscribed to you ages ago. I do mine every two weeks
Russell, every two weeks?...and I thought I was OCD lol! ... seriously mate, unless you ride in the gobi desert there's no need to do them that often... once you've got them free running you can just lift the wheel and rinse out the calipers with running water at the end of a wet ride and that will prevent the crud building up so quick... every 6 months is usually more than enough... but hey, what am I saying, you can't do too much maintenance can you? ... ride safe my friend, Del
But i love my brakes clean and i enjoy keeping the bike perfect
I live in the North East of England where they salt the roads 6 months of the year!
Russell Wilson Nowt wrong with that mate... and that's exactly the way it should be... cheers Del
I dont wanna blow up your arse but thanks to you I have saved soooo much money on workshop fees I feel like I have failed if i have to take the bike into a shop. I do 80% of my own work now, jobs I cant do is due to not having the tooling and the bike is 13 years old and feels as tight as a 4 year old bike. I get nearly as much enjoyment working on it as i do riding it.
Glad I discovered your channel, your instructional vids have inspired me to tackle some pretty basic jobs which I'm ashamed to admit I have left to mechanics in the past. My brakes will get some overdue attention very soon.
Well done mate, glad to hear it, I think we all get a bit lazy now and again as it's so easy to book it in and pay the bill! Good on yer mate and good luck with it!
Hi Del and Penny,
Since the last time you did this video I've cleaned a couple of different calipers so a big thank you for giving me the knowledge and confidence to do the job saving me plenty of pennies.
Have a good new year.
Hi Christian, good to hear from you mate, and I'm glad the videos have worked for you, that's why we take the time to post them... your confidence will now grow by itself, all you need to do is constantly ask yourself 'how hard can it be?' ... all the best for the New Year, Cheers Del & Penny
top vid as always mate.....full of vital info once again. good one. take care Ade
Thanks Ade, always good to hear from you mate, and thanks for your kind support, I always think this kind of stuff is obvious, but you can guarantee when you post it up, you'll find half a dozen people who've never heard of brake bobbins and need to do it NOW! ...really appreciate your continued support mate, means a lot fellah, take care and ride safe, and have a great 2014! (oh and btw, will we be seeing you at the Bulldog Bash?)
may happen, who knows !! will try and boot ya front door for a cuppa at some point during 2014 if nowt else. keep safe both and a lucky, healthy 2014 to you both. cheers Ade
ade theblade Now that I'll hold you too mate, just gizza a bit of notice and I'll gather up some of the Collective and we can head out for breakfast... what's not to like!
Once again, a great vid. Very helpful. Thanks Del.
Hi Paul, thank you kindly Sir, really appreciate the support... take care & ride safe, Del
Moonfleet41 PS My rear brake was squeaking quite often and not grabbing as it should so I cleaned it today as you show in the vid, including the bobbins, and it's like a new brake! My only problem was getting the saddlebag back on. Those bolts seldom seem to line up just right. Anyway, thanks again Del. Keep up the great advice and instruction, buddy.
Tomorrow, cleaning calipers day :) Thank a lot for your videos !!! I m learning from you every day something new !! Big UP !
Good job, enjoyed your chat with nt8 thanks for the reminder I saw the last one you did but the if you made a video every time I'd watch must to activate my little gray cells and Herquele Perot would say. Ride safe my friend
Hi Ed, yep, I didn't know that Tom loaded that up, but glad it could help others watching... really appreciate your kind support over this year mate, Happy New Year, Del
I cannot thankyou enough. You have given me the confidence to do it myself, I shall be purchasing brake cleaner tomorrow! And getting it done
Top stuff Carleton, don't forget the Copper Slip as well... take yer time and make a good job of it, you'll be amazed at the improvement you feel when you ride! Good luck, let us know how you get on, Del
Moonfleet41 Yep ive got some copper slip and all that, just need some brake cleaner! :)
Very good, that you point this very important maintenance work, on the brake calipers. I do mine also every 6 months, and even if i don't trust it, i check it in between. You must know your motorcycle by every bolt and nut (well that's how i think about it). Good work Del!!!! ( and Penny for the good camera work).
Too right Joppie... I do pretty much know that bike back to front now, but that's not always a good thing cos I know all it's faults as well lol! ... you are right with Penny, it was a joy to have her back at the helm and makes the editing ten times easier lol!...also, she makes me tea unlike the tripod that just sits there haha!
Great video, I would recommend putting the pads back in the same sides that they came out of, as they wear to the disc, just to save bedding the old pads back in, keep the videos coming love them!
Hi mate, that's not bad advice, provided they are wearing evenly... sometimes the fluid entry side will get a little bit more wear, so effectively rotating them means you'll get the longest life out of the set... cheers for the insight, that's why I love YT... Happy New Year, Del
How good are you at explaining how to do work on a bike ,never had the balls before ,watched afew of your videos and now have ago at things i wouldnt have dreamed of touching before now ,,thanks i owe you big time :)
Hi Simon, glad you like the videos mate, and happy that they can help you out... good luck and drop us a line if you get stuck.. Del.
Yet another cracking vid!!! Got quoted £180 + vat to service front brakes (robbing t#*#s) thanks for the videos and tips well appreciated.
All the best to ya both for the New year also.
hahaha... one hundred and eighty phuqin' quid ??? so 200 sovs with the VAT?? ...mate, that's damn near the price of a pair of tyres and outright bloody offensive...the chap should be ashamed of himself... but hey, at least you would have got a free coffee while you wait, so mustn't grumble eh?! ... Happy New Year, D&P
Just got turned on to your channel, love the videos keep them up. Just bought a 34 year old bike and had to completely overhaul the brake system. Now if the previous owner had done even a little bit of maintenance like this... would have saved me a lot of work!
Hi buddy, welcome aboard, yeah, if only people would just even clean the salt off after a winter ride, just a watering can with sime soapy water in will make a world of difference... ! Thanks for watching.. all the best. Del.
Excellent video, learnt a lot and hopefully I will save myself some cash.
Hi Del thank's for the info on the bobbin's great help Allan
+Lewis Smith You're welcome Lewis, glad the video can help you... all the best buddy..
Yoooo Delboy. Seasons Greetings from Spain. May 2014 bring us many vids and new projects.
Saludos mi amigo ... bueno saber de ti, espero que disfruten los videos por venir y gracias por su apoyo! Viaje seguro, Del
Great video again (I watched the first one too but you can never watch it too many times). I'm going to give this a whirl another day.
Good to hear mate, there's nowt like a little timely housekeeping... ride safe, my friend and have a great New Year! Del
Nice1 Delboy,well confident way to explain and certainly one to listen to and easy to follow,so thanks for these vids you do,great stuff so you [and the wife!] take care and ride safe,ok
Thanks mate, glad you like the video....and really appreciate the kind comments... take care.. Del.
Moonfleet41 no prob!...I'm being advised to use 'thread lock' on the actual caliper mounting bolts ,and the explanation is because the reason why the 'manual' says to replace these bolts,is because they would have been 'locked' from new [I'm not sure what they're like as yet,as I've not done this on the bike yet,just waiting for the kit to arrive,] but didn't you say NOT to do that ?..cant find the vid now [sods law,innit!] I'm sure you did?
Thanks again for the 'common sense' thinking about what's going on,and making us 'think' about the job properly...well good!
I was just going to comment.. I didnt know about the bobbing cleaning part :) then you said it :P ..... really been enjoying your stuff ... guess i'll add that to the list of things to finish off this week.
Yes, it's a little known trick, that makes a big difference to the crispness and performance of your brakes, specially on higher mileage bikes... well done for doing it yourself, good luck with it!
once again del great advice if i had watched this vid 12 months ago i wouldn't have had to strip my calliper down :P
(using another of your fantastic vids) I think there should be a link to you channel in every bike manual lol this house work as you call it is priceless 1st class work del always a fan :)
Thank you kindly Andrew, you are very generous! At least now you've done your brakes you can keep them washed out like this every 6 months, then you won't need to re-build them again... the need to re-build only comes from long term neglect and after 3yrs not being washed, any caliper will need stripping... I guess that's why they sell seals eh?! ...
Thanks for all your kind support, more to come for 2014, so ride safe and have a good one, Cheers, D&P
I love the way you and Penny take the mic lol.
Along with heated grips (decided to fit them myself :/ lol) overhauling the brakes is my first job on my bandit, as they are the most important part of any bike except the tyres, just so I know where I am with them and they are ready for the worst winter can throw at it
Save riding and I shall be on the road hopefully in the next 10 days
Wow that's great news Mark... finally getting back on the road! I bet you can't wait! ... I'm proud of you for doing the grips yourself, it really isn't hard, is it?... and with the brake job, take yer time and just be as meticulous as you can... and obviously, let me know if you need any help at all... ride safe for the new year mate, and have a good one, Del
Great information,,, Guess I am OCD, I cant do just the front I have to do the back also weather they need it or not. Just a little niche I have. lol Very well done on the clean up of the brakes brother. And congrats on getting the remap done. I know the dealer had to be impressed with the way you did the pipes. Ride Safe......
Hey buddy, yes, you are right about the rears, but as you can see, it was just a simple reminder video... I did the rears too and, in fact, doing Penny's rear on the Sportster tomorrow as we've been a little thin on Harley videos this year and we've been asked recently to show how to take the rear caliper off a Sportster as it is a little odd design... and not obvious how it comes off.
It's been great to have your support brother, and we are looking forward to throwing up some great fun & games for the new year... not least a side mount fabrication for Penny's Harley and possibly some paintwork if I can persuade her to hurry up and choose a colour other than black lol!
Ride safe buddy, keep yer boots in the breeze! All the best Del & Penny
Hey Del. Been watching your videos from the start. My ZX12R had 6 pot Tocikos when I got it and I was never happy with the front brakes. Bit of research and especially your informative vids had me buying the very same Nissin 4 pot callipers from a bandit. I rebuilt them with new seals as per the earlier vids and replaced the disks in the process. Being fairly happy with the result I thought I wouldn't need to touch the brakes for a while as we don't get your winters here in Oz. Nevertheless i watched this vid and thought I'd service them anyway. Glad I did cause now the ZX has the brakes it always needed - 2 fingers is all I need now. So thanks again to you for the great demos and to Penny for the camera work.
Happy new year to you both.
Cheers
Hi Bernie, thanks for watching mate, you found the ZX12's weakest link then? Those brakes are awful... they gunge up with dust in about 6months and that's with bone dry use... if you just wash out your new Nissin's once every 6months in the way we showed, you should never need to strip them! Ride safe my friend, that's a mighty fiesty bike you have there! Take care, Del
It will be no surprise that I'm already very familiar with this routine, but it's still a pleasure to watch you explain real world maintenance so well. The first time I tackled this job and a pad change I knew very little, and certainly there wasn't anything as good as this to guide me. If you haven't done it before, have a go. It's not hard and the difference in braking is really noticeable. Being able to stop is quite important! I always do the back as diligently as the ratio of front to rear braking is more even in wet and slippery conditions, so the rear gets more use in the winter. If you've got an underslung caliper like the Bandit has, as it really collects the crud and typically it only has the one pair of pistons, so it doesn't take much to erode it's efficiency.
If you're on a bike with a rear drum brake the same principles apply. Keep it clean and free moving, check the seals and the shoes and springs. They are less efficient than a disk brake. All the more reason for ensuring they're in tip top condition.
Timely advice Del, and superbly covered as ever. Glad you got the remap done. I take it you could notice a marked difference?
Hi Peter, thanks for those wise words mate, well put indeed, especially about the drums... the re-map made a slight difference, nothing much in power as that's not what the re-map is about, the bike already picked up a little bit of grunt with the K&N filter and free flowing pipes, but what the re-map addressed was a slight throttle lag off tick over and a little lean running (registered as 0.5 initially, which as also addressed), now it pulls clean and smooth right through to the red line... at which it naturally sounds glorious! Can't wait for some multi-storey car park action and see how many car alarms we can set off lol! You think you grow out of loud exhausts, but then you ride one, and you realise you don't... I'm such a child lol! Take care mate, hope the bike search is going well... Del
That's going to save me some money and never new you could do it with it still connected thanks :) great video
Hi Josh... yes I recently discovered that many people believe you have to disconnect the hydraulics, but as you can see, there's no need whatsoever, just dunk it in a bucket of hot soapy water and get busy with an old toothbrush! Thanks for watching mate, Happy New Year, Del
Thanks Del, you confirmed that I was cleaning my brakes properly, but I have to confess that I wasn't aware of the floating bobbins. Cheers mate, will check my bobbins in future :-)
Cheers Robin, yeah keeping the bobbins free will make the brakes feel crisp and sharp...many riders mistake gummed up disc for air in the brake lines and spend hours bleeding them to no avail...
An education as always del. you are a credit to the biking community !! Keep up the good work mate
Excellent video, I like your technique for freeing up the bobbins.
It's great!!!. Now I know the importance of clean the disc. Tomorrow Ithink my new brembo pads are arrived and I will compare with ones are instaled; I decided if change or not; but I clean the calipers and disc; that's sure. Thanks for shared and for you very good explanation. For me is not easy the folllow (isn't my language), but I learning very much when I listen and see your work. Thanks. Gaaasss! ✌️✌️✌️.
Thank you for your kind comments Andy, good luck with your brakes, i hope it all goes smoothly for you sir..!
Excellent video, was always afraid to tackle the breaks...but after watching your vid, as easy as pie and saves me £ ;) Cheers! Keep up the good work mate!!!
Hi Mike, that's great news! We really love it when someone finds use for a video... that's what they're there for, always feel free to drop us a line any time you need any help mate, Del
A can't thank you a nuff you have solved half my problem in 5 videos well worth the subscribe
Thanks mate, glad we could help you out... it's important to share the things we know to help each other aye!
Brilliant video I'll be doing my bandit tomorrow now
Well done Chris, no time like the present! Hope it goes well mate, Cheers Del
Invaluable info thanks for taking the time to upload these videos.
You are welcome my friend, the videos are nothing without their viewers, so thanks for watching!
Great videos. Very informative.
Love doing stuff like this to Prevent things!! Gives you some peace of mind !!
thanks so much both of you for taking the time to do this it is very helpfull
Thanks Terry & Lori, thanks so much for your feedback, great to know the video can help you, it's good to do your own aye ! All the best to you both, take care, D&P!
Oooo I remember the first time you did this Del, did mine the next day. Must be that time of the year again! Happy new year, Bisto!
Ayup BK, sad you had to change your username, it was the best on the Tube! That's why I loaded this video again, or re-made it, just to drive the message home that it is, indeed, that time of year again!
Great video Delboy. Thanks for putting it together. As a fairly new biker with an older ZX6R these tips will prove extremely helpful. I've done a lot of work on cars previously, but wasnt too sure about working on the bike, however the brakes will be getting striped down and cleaned this weekend! Cheers!!
Thanks Paul, nice to recieve some appreciation and glad the videos can help you... good luck with weekend, and drop us a line if you get stuck, Del
Doing the Bobbins - top tip. Well sorted.
Really enjoyed that. Very informative and we'll explained. New to your channel and enjoying your videos a lot. thankyou and keep them coming :).
Thank you kindly Sir, and welcome aboard! Glad you enjoy the videos and that we are able to help you in some way, just passing simple tips and maintenance in the name of good housekeeping! Thanks for watching, Del
realy nice video. Thank you so much. At least as a person with to left hands as we say in germany I can understand the steps too. Keep it up.
Great video. I love the project videos, but the how to's is what me got subscribed in the first place and give me as a total newbie to motorcycle maintenance the confidence to do it.
I'm actually gonna work on this tomorrow. Have some other stuff planned for the bike and this will be great to do as well.
Btw, I didn't know about the free moving brake disk (newbie, remember). Very good to know and understand why they cleaning.
Hello mate, that's very kind of you.... I guess you could say the 'How To' videos are why we started in the first place ... we make sure also that we try to include some how-to tips in the project videos to keep that theme going.
Good luck with your work today, hope it goes well for you... obviously, feel free to ask if you need any help... ride safe my friend and have a Happy New Year, Del
Another great video.Getting back into bikes after a long lay off,definately be doing my own work ,may even give the car brakes a clean up
Be safe out there
Great video as always, ive got a pad change coming up, and I wouldn't have touched the brakes before I had come across your channel. So once again thanks for the money you guys have saved me which is running into the hundreds now. Happy new year to you and PP.
Hi Andy... i love to hear that mate, the fact that we have been able to just show another rider how truly easy it is to do these simple jobs, and inspire you to learn more, makes it all worth while....it also means you get to enjoy the full range of activities that comes with owning a bike....there's more to bike ownership than just riding it aye... have a great new year mate, and enjoy 2014... cheers, Del.
Thanks for this del tested mine today made the noise so used the vid and cleaned cheers
well done Bill. safe and sound.
Alright bud - good sensible vid, I used your calliper repair vid and cleaning vid in past. Top info for the new rider and veteran alike, keep safe - cheers, Nige.
Thanks Nige, really appreciate that mate, I just thought we'd re-do that little nugget as not only is it a constant housekeeping job, but there are new riders joining the flock every day and with the amount of new subs in the last few months it's good to drive these basic essentials home... thanks for your kind support mate, have a safe and happy 2014... Del & Penny
Same to you fella - have a happy 2014 - cheers....
I need to go check and free up my bobbins. I never knew this, so thanks for the info. Subscribed.
+mickster boone Thanks Mick, glad yo help, and welcoem aboard... all the best. Del
Thanks very much for that! What an eye-opener. Going out to invest in some brake cleaner right away! Den
I had an issue with my 600 Bandit, dust seals coming out with the piston where I hadn't cleaned them for a while. And new seals from Suzuki will cost you £43. I bought a set of reconditioned calipers to get me put of trouble until I have the time to rebuild these ones. So well worth spending the few minutes it takes to keep them clean! Keep up the good videos Del and a Happy New Year to you and Penny!
Hi mate...£43 for 4 rubber rings?... thats outright bloody robbery mate.. get the pattern ones, i pay £8 a set and never had a single issue with them.... good luck with it mate..happy new year, Del.
that was great tip I been riding for over 30 years and I never heard of these bobbies thanks I going to do it next weekend as I ride all year around thanks again
Well done mate, a little known creature you know the lesser spotted brake bobbin! You'd be surprised how many times I hear that...ride safe, Del
I remember watching the first guide last year -I think I viewed it 20 times before getting the balls to take the callipers off :o) Couldn't believe how simple a job it was when I eventually got the guts to do it!
There you go mate, it's like I've always said, the greatest fear on working on your bike is the fear of the unknown, coupled with a little bit of fear of looking a fool if you get stuck, but just ask yourself, 'how hard can it be?' and before you know it, you've learned something new... and more importantly, saved enough money to take the Mrs for a bag of chips and a Brown Ale lol!... ride safe fellah, and have a good 2014, Del
Moonfleet41 Of course, now I've just done the job again and wouldn't you know it, one of the pistons popped out on me while I was busy working free one of the others :$ Never mind, the fluid needed changing anyway and I'm pleasantly surprised how easy it is to bleed the lines on the Triumph compared to the DRZ :o)
Great vid as usual just at right time of year, thanks for reminding everyone.
Hello to you, Mikael here from sweden! I found you on youtube about a year ago and i have got a lot of god interesting tips from you. Here is one from me to you. use ceramic grease insted, maybe in the short term it works applying copperpaste on the threads and on the backside of the brake pads, but in time there is a risk of doing so.The copper will start a chemical reaction between different alloys which causes it to rust. ceramic grease costing a bit more but it is the better choise, i have also found out that it eats up the rust, next tim you change tyres on your car, try it and you will se!
thanks for sharing, great tutorial
Cheers for all you awesome videos Del,Will be saving myself alot of money by getting in there and doing it myself,Just bought myself a 2001 TL1000S and seen that the discs wern't floating and were stiff as ,so ill be heading to the shop first thing in the morning to bye some brake cleaner so i can free them up,we dont get salt on our roads down in New Zealand but do get ice grit so all the calipers and bobbins still build up with crap.
snappalips Hi mate, great choice on the bike... the TL1000s is a beast, and really good fun to ride...good luck with your break disc clean it should make a big difference if they're gummed up...!
Thanks for the timely reminder Del!
Great video
Thank you for this video. I had no idea of the floating break disc. I hope i can find a vid from you on how to re-surface the disc to stop squeeky breaks.👍
Nice Video Del, it makes you wonder just how many riders put their bikes away for the winter year after year and never check the simple but most important parts of their bikes, Copper slip is awesome stuff, Old School as far as I'm concerned anyway, Ride Safe Buddy.
Wadup Skeggs, great to hear from you mate, oddly enough, it's not just riding in the salt and crap that causes calipers to seize up and brakes to bind, leaving them in the garage in the damp for 3 months can achieve the same end... condensation causes the crud to expand and rust up solid, so even if you don't ride through winter, it's the first job people should do in the Spring... thanks for watching me old mate. ride safe, Del
Moonfleet41 so right Buddy, it was nice to see you in a Hangout the other day with NT8, you'll have to jump in one sometime when where on we got one going most nights, but I don't suggest for one minute that you stay anywhere as long as some of us do, not if you want to make work the following day anyway, lol.
Skeggy Cruiser
and giving me a shout out hehehehe
whoamiuk1 . Yeah it was noticed, lol.
Thank you Del, I had to ask my mrs what dish soap is!
Happy new year to you and yours.
All the best Kevin
hahaha, well done Sir, you make me proud! Us blokes have no place knowing such things lol!...