08/04/2014
When it comes to your Honda Goldwing GL1800, safety and performance are paramount, and your braking system is at the heart of both. As a touring motorcycle designed for long hauls and carrying significant weight, the GL1800 demands brake pads that offer consistent, reliable stopping power under a variety of conditions. Choosing the right brake pads isn't just about replacing worn-out components; it's about optimising your ride's safety, comfort, and responsiveness. With so many options available, from different material compounds to various brands, understanding what you need can feel overwhelming. This guide will demystify the choices, helping you select the perfect pads to keep your Goldwing performing at its best.
Your Goldwing's braking system is a sophisticated network designed to bring a substantial machine to a halt smoothly and efficiently. The brake pads themselves are crucial friction materials that clamp onto the brake discs (rotors) to create the necessary resistance. Over time, these pads wear down due to the immense heat and pressure generated during braking, necessitating replacement. But before you simply pick up the first set you see, let's delve into the types of brake pads available and what makes each unique.
Understanding Brake Pad Material Types
Brake pads are primarily categorised by their friction material composition. Each type offers a different balance of performance, longevity, noise, and dust production. For a motorcycle like the Goldwing, which is often used for long-distance touring, the choice of material significantly impacts ride quality and safety.
1. Organic (NAO - Non-Asbestos Organic) Pads
These pads are made from a blend of fibres (like glass, rubber, carbon, or Kevlar), fillers, and resins. They are often the standard choice for many motorcycles straight from the factory.
- Pros: Excellent initial bite, very quiet operation, produce less abrasive dust, kinder to brake discs, generally the most affordable option.
- Cons: Softer compound means faster wear, especially under heavy braking or high temperatures; can fade under extreme heat (e.g., prolonged downhill braking); less effective in wet conditions compared to other types.
- Ideal for: Everyday commuting, gentle touring, riders who prioritise quiet operation and disc longevity. For a Goldwing, these are suitable for leisurely rides but might not offer the robustness needed for aggressive touring or frequent heavy braking.
2. Semi-Metallic Pads
Composed of 30-65% metal (copper, iron, steel, brass) mixed with organic fillers and graphite lubricant. These are a popular aftermarket choice due to their versatility.
- Pros: Good all-round performance, better heat dissipation than organic pads, more durable and longer-lasting, consistent performance across a wider temperature range, good wet weather performance.
- Cons: Can be noisier than organic pads (squealing), produce more brake dust (often dark coloured), can be harder on brake discs over time.
- Ideal for: Most Goldwing riders looking for a balance between performance, durability, and cost. They offer a significant upgrade in stopping power and fade resistance for touring without being overly aggressive.
3. Sintered (Metallic) Pads
Made by compressing metallic particles (copper, bronze, iron, etc.) and bonding agents at high temperatures and pressures, forming a dense, durable material. These are often found on high-performance bikes.
- Pros: Exceptional stopping power, excellent fade resistance at high temperatures, superb performance in wet or dry conditions, very long-lasting.
- Cons: Can be very aggressive on brake discs, tend to be noisier (squealing or grinding sounds are common), require a certain amount of heat to perform optimally (less effective when cold), more expensive.
- Ideal for: Aggressive riders, those frequently riding with a passenger and luggage, or in demanding conditions (e.g., mountainous terrain). While offering superior stopping power, some touring riders might find them too "grabby" or noisy for everyday use on a Goldwing.
4. Ceramic Pads
A relatively newer option, ceramic pads are made from ceramic fibres, fillers, and bonding agents, with small amounts of copper fibres.
- Pros: Very quiet operation, produce minimal brake dust (and what they do produce is light-coloured and less noticeable), excellent longevity, consistent performance across various temperatures, gentle on brake discs.
- Cons: Typically the most expensive option, can have a slightly less aggressive initial bite compared to semi-metallic or sintered pads.
- Ideal for: Riders who prioritise cleanliness, quiet operation, and long pad life. They offer a good blend of performance and comfort for the Goldwing, providing a smooth, quiet stop.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Goldwing GL1800 Brake Pads
Selecting the right brake pads isn't a one-size-fits-all decision. Your choice should align with your specific riding habits, the conditions you typically encounter, and your budget.
1. Your Riding Style
- Leisurely Touring/Commuting: If your rides are mostly gentle, urban commutes or relaxed, long-distance cruises without aggressive braking, organic or ceramic pads might be ideal for their quietness and disc friendliness.
- Aggressive Touring/Mountain Riding: For riders who push their Goldwing harder, frequently carry heavy loads, or tackle challenging mountain roads requiring heavy braking, semi-metallic or sintered pads will offer the necessary fade resistance and stopping power.
2. Environmental Conditions
- Wet Weather Performance: If you frequently ride in the rain, semi-metallic or sintered pads generally perform better due to their ability to shed water and maintain friction. Organic pads can suffer from reduced effectiveness when wet.
- Temperature Fluctuations: Sintered pads excel at high temperatures, making them suitable for prolonged braking. Ceramic pads offer consistent performance across a broad temperature range.
3. Budget
Brake pads vary significantly in price. While it's tempting to opt for the cheapest option, remember that brake pads are a critical safety component. Investing in quality pads often translates to better performance, longer life, and ultimately, greater safety and peace of mind. Consider the cost over the lifespan of the pads.
4. Longevity vs. Performance
There's often a trade-off. Softer compounds (organic) wear faster but are quieter and gentler on discs. Harder compounds (sintered) last longer under stress but can be noisier and harder on discs. Semi-metallic and ceramic pads offer a good balance.
5. Noise and Dust Production
If squealing brakes or excessive dust accumulation are concerns for you, ceramic or quality organic pads are generally the quietest and cleanest options. Sintered and some semi-metallic pads can be notorious for noise and dark dust.
Top Brake Pad Brands for Goldwing GL1800
Several reputable brands offer high-quality brake pads suitable for the Goldwing GL1800. Here are a few commonly trusted names:
- EBC Brakes: A very popular choice, EBC offers a wide range of compounds, including their FA series (organic for general use), HH (sintered for high performance), and EPFA (extreme performance sintered). They are known for consistent quality and performance.
- Brembo: A premium brand, Brembo offers excellent performance and durability. Their pads are often chosen by riders seeking top-tier braking.
- Galfer: Known for their high-performance braking components, Galfer offers various compounds, including semi-metallic and sintered options, providing strong, reliable stopping power.
- Lucas/TRW (now ZF Aftermarket): A well-established European brand offering reliable and high-quality brake pads, often a good OEM-equivalent or upgrade option.
- OEM Honda: While often more expensive, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) pads are designed specifically for your Goldwing and guarantee compatibility and a consistent performance as intended by Honda.
Comparative Table: Brake Pad Types for Goldwing GL1800
| Feature | Organic (NAO) | Semi-Metallic | Sintered (Metallic) | Ceramic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stopping Power | Good (initial bite) | Very Good | Excellent | Good to Very Good |
| Fade Resistance | Low | Medium to High | Excellent | High |
| Wet Performance | Fair | Good | Excellent | Good |
| Longevity | Low to Medium | Medium to High | High | High |
| Disc Wear | Low | Medium | High | Low |
| Noise Level | Very Low | Medium (can squeal) | High (can squeal/grind) | Very Low |
| Dust Production | Low (light) | Medium (dark) | High (dark) | Very Low (light) |
| Cost | Low | Medium | High | High |
| Typical Use | Leisurely cruising, commuting | General touring, mixed riding | Aggressive touring, heavy loads | Comfort, low maintenance, quiet |
The Importance of Proper Installation and Bedding-In
Once you've chosen your new brake pads, correct installation is critical for safety and performance. While the Goldwing GL1800 is relatively straightforward for pad replacement, attention to detail matters. You'll be pleased to know that wheel removal is generally not necessary for changing the front or rear brake pads on your GL1800, which simplifies the process considerably.
Here's a general overview of the process, incorporating the key tips you've provided:
- Preparation: Gather your tools: a flat screwdriver, a torque wrench, and a small amount of silicone grease. Ensure your bike is stable, preferably on its centre stand.
- Access the Caliper: Locate the brake caliper. You'll be focusing on the single caliper bolt that secures the pads.
- Compress the Plunger: Before removing anything, use a flat screwdriver to gently pry the old pads apart or push the caliper piston (plunger) back into its bore. This creates space for the thicker new pads and makes removal easier. Be careful not to damage the piston or rubber boot.
- Remove the Caliper Bolt: Loosen and remove the one caliper bolt. This bolt typically holds the pads in place and allows them to pivot.
- Remove Old Pads: Once the bolt is out, the old pads should simply drop out or can be easily pulled free. Note their orientation for reference.
- Lubricate and Prepare the Bolt: This is a crucial step! Take a tiny dab of silicone grease and apply it to the tiny rubber gasket on the end of the caliper bolt. This lubrication helps prevent corrosion and ensures smooth operation of the caliper, allowing the pads to float correctly.
- Insert New Pads: Carefully slide the new pads into position. Ensure they are correctly seated and facing the right direction (friction material towards the disc).
- Reinstall Caliper Bolt: Reinsert the caliper bolt and tighten it. The recommended torque for this caliper bolt on your Goldwing GL1800 is 13 ft lbs. Using a torque wrench is essential to ensure it's tight enough to be secure but not overtightened, which could damage threads or components.
- Pump the Brakes: Before riding, pump the brake lever or pedal several times until firm pressure returns. This pushes the pistons out and seats the new pads against the disc.
Bedding-In New Brake Pads
After installation, new brake pads require a 'bedding-in' period. This process transfers a thin, even layer of friction material from the pad to the brake disc, optimising performance, reducing noise, and extending pad life. Skipping this step can lead to reduced braking performance, noise, and premature wear.
A typical bedding-in procedure involves:
- Several moderate stops (e.g., from 30 mph down to 10 mph) with light to medium pressure. Avoid hard braking.
- Allow the brakes to cool down between stops.
- Gradually increase the intensity of stops.
- Perform about 10-15 such stops.
- Avoid sudden, hard stops or prolonged dragging of the brakes during this period, as this can overheat the pads and 'glaze' them, leading to reduced performance.
Common Brake Issues and Troubleshooting
Even with the right pads, issues can arise. Knowing how to identify them can save you hassle and ensure your safety.
- Squealing Brakes: Often caused by vibration between the pad, caliper, and disc. Can be due to new pads bedding in, dirty pads/discs, worn pads, or improper installation (missing anti-squeal shims or paste). Sintered pads are also inherently noisier.
- Spongy Brake Lever/Pedal: Usually indicates air in the hydraulic system, a fluid leak, or old, contaminated brake fluid. Requires bleeding the brake lines and potentially checking for leaks.
- Brake Fade: A reduction in braking effectiveness due to excessive heat build-up. Common with organic pads under heavy use. Upgrading to semi-metallic or sintered pads can mitigate this.
- Vibration or Pulsation: Often a sign of warped brake discs, which can occur from extreme heat or sudden cooling. This requires disc inspection and potentially replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Choosing and maintaining your Goldwing's brake pads often leads to common questions. Here are some answers to help you further.
Q1: How often should I replace my Goldwing GL1800 brake pads?
A1: This varies greatly depending on your riding style, the type of pads, and conditions. Generally, pads should be inspected every 5,000-10,000 miles or annually. Replace them when the friction material is worn down to approximately 2mm or less, or if you notice any changes in braking performance, unusual noises, or warning signs.
Q2: Can I use different types of brake pads on the front and rear?
A2: While technically possible, it's generally recommended to use the same type of pads on both front calipers and, ideally, similar performance characteristics between front and rear to maintain balanced braking. Mixing vastly different compounds could lead to unpredictable braking behaviour, especially under hard braking where front and rear bias is critical.
Q3: Are more expensive brake pads always better?
A3: Not always 'better' in every scenario, but higher-priced pads often correlate with better quality materials, more consistent performance, and greater durability. For a heavy touring bike like the Goldwing, investing in a reputable brand and a suitable compound is a wise decision for safety and longevity, rather than just choosing the cheapest option.
Q4: Do I need to replace my brake discs when I replace the pads?
A4: Not necessarily. Discs should be inspected for wear (thickness below minimum specification), warpage, and deep scoring. If they are within specification and in good condition, you can reuse them. However, if they are significantly worn or damaged, replacing them along with new pads is highly recommended to ensure optimal braking performance and pad life.
Q5: What is the importance of brake fluid, and how does it relate to pads?
A5: Brake fluid is the hydraulic medium that transfers the force from your lever/pedal to the calipers, pushing the pads against the discs. Old or contaminated brake fluid can lead to a spongy feel, reduced braking efficiency, and can damage internal caliper components. While not directly related to pad material, it's a vital part of the overall braking system and should be flushed and replaced according to your Goldwing's service schedule (typically every 2 years).
Conclusion
Choosing the right brake pads for your Goldwing GL1800 is a critical decision that impacts not just your bike's performance but, more importantly, your safety and comfort on the road. By understanding the different material types – organic, semi-metallic, sintered, and ceramic – and considering your individual riding style and conditions, you can make an informed choice. Remember that proper installation, including the crucial greasing of the caliper bolt and correct torque, followed by a careful bedding-in process, is just as vital as the pads themselves. Prioritise quality, maintain your braking system diligently, and your Goldwing will continue to provide countless miles of safe and enjoyable touring adventures.
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