How to Change Brake Pads on a 1992 Honda CT70 Dirt Bike

Shop parts for a 1992 HONDA CT70 Dirt Bike.

Quick Brake System Overview

The CT70 operates like most modern dirt bikes in its braking basics – a brake lever or pedal actuates a master cylinder that sends hydraulic pressure through a brake line to a caliper. The caliper squeezes brake pads against a steel rotor to slow the bike. Key parts you'll touch when changing pads are the brake lever or pedal, master cylinder, hydraulic line, caliper, pads, and rotor.

When to Replace Brake Pads on the CT70

  • Reduced braking power or longer stopping distances.
  • Squealing, harsh scraping, or grinding noises when you brake.
  • Excessive brake lever or pedal travel before the bike starts to slow.
  • Visible pad material less than 2-3 mm or metal backing plate showing.
  • Blueing or heat discoloration on the rotor indicating overheating.

Inspect pads after muddy rides, long trail days, or any time braking feels soft. For a small-displacement ride like the CT70, pads wear quicker with aggressive off-road use or frequent downhill braking.

Tools & Supplies You'll Need

  • Socket wrench set or metric spanners
  • Flat and Phillips screwdrivers
  • Pliers for retaining clips or cotter pins
  • Brake pad set specific to 1992 Honda CT70
  • Clean rags and isopropyl alcohol or brake cleaner
  • Small pry bar or old spatula to ease pads free
  • Rubber mallet (optional)
  • Shop stand or block to securely support the bike

Preparation & Safety

  • Work on a flat surface and let the bike cool if it's been ridden; hot rotors and pads can burn.
  • Elevate the CT70 with a stand or sturdy block so the wheel can rotate freely and the bike won't tip.
  • Have all parts and tools within reach; keep brake fluid away from painted surfaces.

Step-by-Step – Changing Brake Pads on the CT70

  1. Check the caliper type. Some CT70 models use a single-piston caliper that is accessible with the wheel in place; others may be easier with the front or rear wheel removed. Decide whether to remove the wheel for better access.
  2. If removing the wheel, loosen axle nuts, remove axle, and slip the wheel out. Keep spacers in order for reassembly.
  3. Locate the pad retaining pin or clip on the caliper. Remove any external clip, cotter pin, or threaded pin using pliers or the appropriate socket.
  4. Slide out the retaining pin and carefully pull the pads out of the caliper. Note pad orientation and any shims or springs so you can install new ones the same way.
  5. Inspect the rotor for deep grooves, warping, or excessive rust. Light surface rust can be cleaned; deep scoring means consider rotor replacement later.
  6. Check the caliper bore for dirt and wipe the inside with a clean rag. Look for leaking brake fluid around seals — if present, note it for future caliper service.
  7. Push the caliper piston(s) back into the bore to make room for the new pads. Use a flat screwdriver or pad spreader and apply steady, even pressure. If you can, open the brake fluid reservoir cap first to relieve pressure.
  8. Fit the new pads into the caliper with the friction surface facing the rotor and any shims or anti-rattle clips reinstalled. Make sure pad backing plates seat properly in the caliper grooves.
  9. Reinstall the pad retaining pin and any clips or cotter pins. Secure them so they cannot back out during riding.
  10. If you removed the wheel, reinstall it now, aligning spacers and torqueing axle nuts to a firm, secure fit. Ensure the brake rotor is centered between the pads and the caliper bolts are torqued snugly.
  11. Carefully pump the brake lever or press the pedal several times until firm pressure returns and the pads contact the rotor. This restores hydraulic pressure and sets pad position.
  12. Check brake fluid level and top up if necessary. Wipe away any spilled fluid from the bike surfaces. Spin the wheel and squeeze the brake lever to ensure consistent engagement without rubbing.

Helpful Inspection Tips While You Work

  • Measure rotor thickness – if it looks dangerously thin, replace rather than just pad up.
  • Look for leaks at the caliper seals or master cylinder area; fluid loss can indicate a larger issue.
  • Confirm caliper slides freely on its pins; sticky sliding pins prevent even pad wear.
  • Clean mud and debris from the caliper bracket, pad slots, and rotor with a brush and brake cleaner.
  • Make sure retaining pins and clips are straight and secure; replace bent hardware.

Bedding In New Brake Pads

After installation, bed the pads by performing 8-12 controlled stops from moderate speed (walk to slow ride speeds for the CT70), applying progressive braking to bring the bike to a near stop. Avoid hard emergency stops for the first few miles. This process mates the pad surface to the rotor for consistent bite and reduces glazing or uneven deposits.

Notes on CT70 Braking Variations

While most modern dirt bikes – and the CT70 in its typical brake setup – use hydraulic disc brakes with single or dual pistons, small bikes can have slight differences in caliper bolt size, pad shape, or retaining methods. If your CT70 shows any unique caliper shape or if earlier/later CT70 generations used different rotor sizes, adapt by removing the wheel for better access or using a hand mirror to see hidden clips.

Final Checks

  • Confirm bolts and axle hardware are tight and cotter pins or clips are fully seated.
  • Test brakes slowly in a safe area before any trail riding to confirm firm, even stopping.
  • Repeat pad inspections after a short ride to ensure no rubbing and that bedding is progressing well.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Pads for a 1992 HONDA CT70 Dirt Bike.

Shop Brake Rotors for a 1992 HONDA CT70 Dirt Bike.

Shop Brake Lines for a 1992 HONDA CT70 Dirt Bike.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 1992 HONDA CT70 Dirt Bike.

Shop Brake Tools for a 1992 HONDA CT70 Dirt Bike.

Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.