K9 Front Brake / Contamination

[PurpleDog]

I just recently purchased a used '07 K9 with 824 miles on it. The bike is nice and I thought well kept etc...

I trailered it home and cleaned it up a bit and noticed what appears to be oil coating the front disc and pads. I've been around the automotive industry and know this shouldn't be good.

I cleaned it off the best I could with brake cleaner and took it out for a ride. I believe the front pads to be ruined from this but at the same time can't help but to wonder if this was done intentionally to prevent front wheel lock up (which is effective btw..;-) ). Why would the front disc get oil on it? Having not owned a bike like this in the past I can't be sure this wasn't intentional or if perhaps I have a brake line leak or maybe fork seal leak? Neither appear to be the case just outright.

Anyway, the front brake isn't very effective as is and I'd like to get to know the bike and learn to ride it the way it should be (with front brakes). Should I just change the pads and call it good? I haven't transfered factory warranty yet nor would I think brake contamination would be covered? Besides, I want to ride now - not 2 weeks from now of course.

Pad cost? Availability? Thoughts welcome?

/jim

 

[LUPHOLE]

"...I haven't transfered factory warranty yet ..."
jim, there are a lot of guys around here who will know a lot about the break issue which you raise and i am sure they will chime in soon. but on the warranty transfer, you should sent the $50.00 and written request to transfer sooner rather than later--i think the owners manual mentions 30 days. i don't have mine here in front of me, but that is what i recall off the top of my head. chuck

 

[MavMan]

"...I haven't transfered factory warranty yet ..."
jim, there are a lot of guys around here who will know a lot about the break issue which you raise and i am sure they will chime in soon. but on the warranty transfer, you should sent the $50.00 and written request to transfer sooner rather than later--i think the owners manual mentions 30 days. i don't have mine here in front of me, but that is what i recall off the top of my head. chuck

Lupehole, is the transfer of the warrenty a must? I had called our local dealer to verify how much warranty was left on this pre-owned bike that was from out of state and he let me know how much warranty was left but said nothing about having to get it transfered. I thought it was like a normal vehicle where the original warrenty stays with it and only the extended one is the one that has to be transfered.

 

[Raywood]

Don't agree with your comment on the brakes not being effective. They are some of the best in the business! Maybe your's aren't up to full service due to the leak so I would clean them up and figure where it's coming from. Could just be that you need to tighen the bleed fitting.

See this thread on the pads.
http://www.bigdogbiker.com/forums/performance/4188-brakes.html

Let us know what you find out,
Ray

 

[PurpleDog]

Thanks guys, I just wanted to verify the disc should be dry and you've never heard of anyone doing this intentionally to prevent lock up is all. I pretty much knew this wasn't correct and it should be able to brake as needed.

I don't see a leak yet but I haven't disassembled for further inspection either. I'll investigate, thanks.

/jim

 

[Mastiff]

Hi Guys,

The brake issue is a covered warranty issue. Had the exact same thing. It gets progressively worse until they blow. There is a defect with the PM brakes and BD will completely replace them.

Jerry

 

[Fibersnake]

I would think if the brake was leaking at the caliber, with exception of of loose bleeder valve, say shit piston seals, that it would be covered by warranty.

Other than that, agree with the other and as Sul said, clean it up, make sure that someone didn't mix the type and it has DOT-5 and see if it you can find leak, go from there.

The front brakes are very effective and if used properly, actually take the most load. Brakes on BD are very good from PM caliber to good pads IMHO.

 

[tommyboy]

Twin Specilatys in Raleigh is a dealer the owners name is Joe give him a call (919-877-9500) he will help you with any warr issues!

 

[busa2r]

So you guys are saying the fronts should be very effective i have a simalar problem but no leak. not spongy or oily just no power in the front brakes 1600 miles, rears are way stronger

 

[PurpleDog]

Thanks guys

I did call Twin Specialties/Joe and he confirmed they will get me fixed right up under warranty. Appreciate the info folks. Sounds like he will be able to get me right in next week too.

Is nice to have a good dealer so close. I think I am going to like doing business with them going forward...:up:

/jim