How to Change Brake Pads on a 2000 Yamaha RT100 Dirt Bike

Shop parts for a 2000 Yamaha RT100 Dirt Bike.

Brake system overview for the 2000 Yamaha RT100

Most modern dirt bikes including the 2000 Yamaha RT100 use hydraulic disc brakes: a lever or pedal actuates a master cylinder, hydraulic pressure travels through the brake line, and the caliper squeezes brake pads against a steel rotor. Key components you'll touch when changing pads are the brake lever or pedal, master cylinder, hydraulic line, caliper, brake pads, retaining pins or clips, and the rotor. Hydraulic pressure forces the pads to clamp the rotor to slow the bike.

When to replace the pads & common symptoms

  • Reduced braking power or longer stopping distances.
  • Squealing, squeaking, or grinding noises when braking.
  • Excessive brake lever or pedal travel before engagement.
  • Visible pad material worn thin (<2-3 mm of friction material) or backing plate showing.
  • Heat discoloration, scoring, or deep grooves on the rotor surface after heavy riding.

Inspect pads regularly, especially after muddy rides, long trail days, or motocross sessions where grit accelerates wear.

Tools & parts you'll need

  • New brake pads compatible with 2000 Yamaha RT100.
  • Basic hand tools: sockets, wrenches, pliers, and a screwdriver.
  • Needle-nose pliers or snap-ring pliers for retaining clips/pins.
  • Soft jaw vise or a wide flat screwdriver to compress pistons.
  • Clean rags, isopropyl alcohol, and a small wire brush or toothbrush.
  • Torque wrench for axle and caliper hardware if available.

Preparation

  • Work on a level surface with good light. Have the bike cool and stable.
  • Gather tools and new pads so the job flows efficiently.
  • Support the 2000 Yamaha RT100 on a center stand or a sturdy bike stand so the wheel can spin freely (front or rear depending on which pads you're changing).

Step-by-step: Changing the brake pads

  1. Remove wheel if necessary. On many RT100 setups you can change pads with the wheel in place, but removing the wheel gives better access. Loosen axle hardware, remove axle, and slide out wheel.
  2. Locate the caliper retaining pin or clip. Most dirt bike calipers use a clip or split pin securing a retaining rod that holds pads in place. Use pliers or a screwdriver to remove the clip, then slide the pin out.
  3. Slide the old pads out. Note their orientation and any shims. Keep track of small hardware pieces.
  4. Inspect rotor and caliper. Look for heavy scoring, embedded debris, or leaks. Clean caliper surfaces and rotor with isopropyl alcohol and a brush to remove dirt and brake dust.
  5. Compress the caliper piston(s). Use a wide flat screwdriver or a piston-pressing tool to gently push the piston(s) back into the caliper body to create space for the new, thicker pads. Do this slowly to avoid damaging seals. If the lever is depressed, keep it released to prevent fluid overflow at the master cylinder reservoir.
  6. Install new pads. Slide new pads into the caliper in the same orientation as the old ones. Ensure backing plates face outward and friction material faces the rotor. Reinstall any shims included with the pad kit.
  7. Reinsert retaining pin/clip. Secure the pin and replace the retaining clip so the pads are locked in place. Confirm the pin is fully seated and clip is secure.
  8. Reinstall the wheel (if removed). Align the rotor between the pads, slide the axle in, and torque axle and any pinch bolts to the proper tightness using a torque wrench if available. Spin the wheel to check free movement and that the rotor doesn't rub excessively.
  9. Restore hydraulic pressure. With the bike on the ground or stand, gently pump the brake lever or pedal several times until you get firm resistance and the pads contact the rotor. This re-seats the piston against the new pads and restores normal lever travel.
  10. Final check. Verify pad retention, check for abnormal noises, and ensure no brake fluid leaks around the caliper or hose fittings.

Helpful inspection tips while you're in there

  • Rotor thickness & surface: run your fingernail across the rotor. Deep gouges or a lip on the rotor edge indicate replacement or resurfacing is needed.
  • Caliper movement: the caliper should slide or float freely on its pins; clean and lightly grease sliding surfaces where appropriate (avoid contaminating pads/rotor).
  • Look for brake fluid around the caliper or hose fittings which would indicate a seal or hose issue.
  • Clean mud and grit from the caliper bracket and around the pads to prevent premature wear.
  • Confirm retaining pin and clips are the correct length and fully engaged so pads cannot shift under braking.

Bedding in new brake pads

Bedding in lets the new pads mate properly with the rotor. On the RT100 perform 6-10 moderate stops from around walking speed to a slow roll, avoiding full-power emergency stops. Then do a few firmer stops from slightly higher speed. Allow components to cool between repeated heavy stops. This process helps stabilize braking performance and reduces glazing or uneven deposits on the rotor.

Notes about RT100 braking setups

The 2000 Yamaha RT100 is a lightweight small-displacement dirt bike where braking demands differ from larger trail or enduro machines. While the RT100 uses hydraulic disc brakes similar to motocross and dual-sport models, pad life can be shorter if you ride frequently in mud or sand. If you've seen any updates to rotor diameter or caliper hardware over the years, the pad shape and retaining methods may vary slightly between generations, so double-check pad fitment for the RT100 year and model when ordering.

Wrap-up

Changing brake pads on a 2000 Yamaha RT100 is a straightforward job with basic tools. Regular inspections, keeping components clean, and bedding new pads will keep your braking consistent and predictable, which is essential for control and confidence on the trail or track.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Pads for a 2000 Yamaha RT100 Dirt Bike.

Shop Brake Rotors for a 2000 Yamaha RT100 Dirt Bike.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2000 Yamaha RT100 Dirt Bike.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2000 Yamaha RT100 Dirt Bike.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2000 Yamaha RT100 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.