How to Change Brake Pads on a 2012 Yamaha YZ85 Dirt Bike
Shop parts for a 2012 Yamaha YZ85 Dirt Bike.Overview of the YZ85 braking system
The 2012 Yamaha YZ85, like most modern dirt bikes in the motocross/youth category, uses hydraulic disc brakes with a caliper squeezing pads against a steel rotor. Key components you'll interact with include the brake lever or pedal, master cylinder, hydraulic line, brake caliper, brake pads, and rotor. When you pull the lever or press the pedal hydraulic pressure pushes the pads to contact the rotor, creating friction to slow the bike.
When to replace brake pads & why it matters
Brake pads wear with use; keeping them in good shape preserves stopping power, control and rider safety. Replace pads when you notice any of the following:
- Reduced braking power or longer stopping distances
- Squealing, scraping or grinding noises
- Excessive lever or pedal travel before brakes bite
- Pad material visibly worn thin (metal backing exposed)
- Heat discoloration or scoring on the rotor
Inspect pads after muddy rides or extended practice sessionsyouth motocross and trail riding load the 85cc machine differently than adult bikes, so check more often if you race frequently.
Tools & supplies you'll need
- Socket set and open-end wrenches
- Pliers or snap-ring tool (if applicable)
- Flat screwdriver or pry tool (plastic tip preferred)
- Clean rags and brake cleaner
- New brake pads designed for 2012 Yamaha YZ85
- Small C-clamp or piston-compressing tool (or a clean block of wood)
- Torque wrench for axle and caliper bolts
Note on 2012 YZ85 setup
There are no widely known major design changes to the 2012 YZ85 braking hardware compared to adjacent years; it uses a small lightweight caliper suitable for youth 85cc motocross duties. The basic pad replacement steps below will match typical front and rear hydraulic disc setups on motocross and trail variants of this model.
Step-by-step – changing the brake pads
This guide assumes basic garage tools and a bike stand. Order of steps varies slightly depending on whether you remove the wheel or work with the caliper in place.
- Prepare the bike and workspace. Park on a level surface, cool brakes completely, and gather tools. Remove any handguards or plastics that obstruct access.
- Secure the bike. Use a proper dirt bike stand to keep the bike upright and stable. If replacing the front pads you may prefer to lift the front wheel off the ground; for rear pads lift the rear triangle so the wheel can spin freely.
- Decide whether to remove the wheel. On many YZ85 setups you can change pads with the wheel in place by swinging the caliper out or removing the retaining pin. Removing the wheel improves access and lets you inspect the rotor fully. If removing the wheel, loosen axle hardware, support the fork or swingarm, slide the wheel out, then remove any rotor retainers if present.
- Remove retaining pin or clip. Locate the pad retaining pin or clip on the caliper. Use pliers or a punch to remove the clip and slide the pin out. Keep hardware in a clean tray so nothing gets lost.
- Slide the old pads out. Pull the pads free of the caliper bracket. Note orientation and any shims or anti-rattle springs for correct reassembly. If pads are stuck, carefully pry with a plastic or wooden tool to avoid damaging the caliper.
- Inspect rotor & caliper. Check rotor for scoring, warping, or excessive wear. Look for fluid leaks around the caliper piston seals. Clean dirt, mud and baked-on grime with brake cleaner and a rag.
- Compress the caliper piston(s). With the caliper open, use a C-clamp or piston tool to slowly push the piston(s) back into the bore until there's room for the new, thicker pads. Protect the piston surface with a clean rag and compress evenly to avoid damage.
- Install new pads. Fit the new pads into the caliper in the same orientation as the originals, including any shims or anti-noise plates. Make sure pads sit flush and move slightly in the carrier when pressed.
- Reinstall retaining hardware. Replace the pin or clip and secure it so it cannot back out. Ensure any cotter pins or split clips are seated properly.
- Reinstall the wheel (if removed). Slide the wheel back into the forks or swingarm, align the axle, torque axle and pinch bolts to spec for a snug fit, and ensure rotor runs centered through the caliper.
- Restore hydraulic pressure. With the bike on the ground, pump the brake lever or pedal several times until it firms up and the pads contact the rotor. If the lever feels spongy after several pumps, check for trapped air or a fluid leak.
- Final checks. Spin the wheel to confirm smooth rotor travel, check for rubbing or binding, and ensure the retaining hardware is secure. Test brakes at low speed in a controlled area before full riding.
Helpful inspection tips while you're in there
- Measure rotor thickness and look for deep grooves or heat spots; replace rotor if severely scored.
- Look for brake fluid around the caliper or hose ends – any seepage needs attention.
- Ensure the caliper slides or mounting bolts move freely after cleaning & lubrication of slider pins.
- Clear mud and compressed grit from the caliper bracket so new pads don't wear prematurely.
- Confirm retaining pin and any safety clips are properly seated before riding.
Bedding in new pads
Bedding creates an even transfer layer of pad material onto the rotor for consistent braking. Perform a few sets of moderate-speed stops on an open stretch: accelerate to roughly 15-20 mph, apply the brake firmly to reduce speed to walking pace, repeat 8-12 times without coming to a full stop every time. Finish with a few harder stops to complete the bedding. Avoid aggressive stopping for the first 50 miles if possible.
Wrap-up
Changing brake pads on a 2012 Yamaha YZ85 is a straightforward maintenance task you can do with basic tools. Regular inspections after muddy or frequent riding sessions will keep the small-displacement YZ85 stopping reliably on the motocross track, trails or practice areas. Replace pads when symptoms show up, follow the steps above, and bed the new pads for predictable braking performance.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Pads for a 2012 Yamaha YZ85 Dirt Bike.
Shop Brake Rotors for a 2012 Yamaha YZ85 Dirt Bike.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2012 Yamaha YZ85 Dirt Bike.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2012 Yamaha YZ85 Dirt Bike.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2012 Yamaha YZ85 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.
