How to Change Brake Pads on a 2017 Honda CRF110F

Shop parts for a 2017 Honda CRF110F Dirt Bike.

Overview of the CRF110F braking system

The 2017 Honda CRF110F, as with most modern dirt bikes, uses hydraulic disc brakes: a brake lever or pedal actuates a master cylinder, hydraulic fluid travels through a brake line, and the caliper squeezes brake pads against a steel rotor to slow the bike. Key parts you'll touch when changing pads are the lever or pedal, master cylinder, hydraulic hose, brake caliper, brake pads, pad retaining pin or clip, and the rotor.

When to replace brake pads & why it matters

  • Reduced braking power or longer stopping distances.
  • Squealing, grinding noises, or metal-on-metal sounds.
  • Excessive lever travel or pedal that feels soft before bite.
  • Visible pad material worn thin – less than 1.5-2 mm of friction material, or backing plate visible.
  • Heat discoloration, heavy scoring, or glazing on the rotor after hard rides.

On a youth trail bike like the CRF110F, proper braking keeps novice riders safe and provides predictable control when learning lines. Check pads frequently after muddy rides or extended off-road sessions.

Tools & prep

  • Socket set and wrenches (commonly 10mm, 12mm depending on axle hardware)
  • Needle-nose pliers or snap-ring pliers for retaining clips
  • Flathead screwdriver or small punch
  • Clean rags and isopropyl alcohol or brake cleaner
  • Small C-clamp or piston-compressing tool
  • Torque wrench (helpful for axle and caliper bolts)
  • Bike stand or secure block to support the CRF110F with the wheel off the ground

Step-by-step – changing the brake pads

  1. Prepare the bike and workspace. Park the CRF110F on level ground, cool brakes, and gather tools. Work in good light and keep fluids and rags handy.
  2. Support the bike safely. Use a small dirt bike stand or a secure block so the wheel can rotate if you choose not to remove it. For thorough access, remove the wheel; for many trail/ youth calipers you can change pads with the wheel on.
  3. If removing the wheel, loosen axle hardware and slide the wheel free following the bike's wheel spacing. Keep spacers in order.
  4. Locate the caliper retaining pin or clip. On the CRF110F this is usually a split pin, circlip, or spring clip holding a thin retaining pin. Use pliers or a punch to remove the clip and slide out the pin.
  5. Slide the old pads out. With the pin removed, the pads will slide free of the caliper. Use a screwdriver to pry them gently if necessary. Note pad orientation and any shims so you replace them the same way.
  6. Inspect rotor and caliper. Look for deep scoring, heat spots, or warping on the rotor. Check the piston face for corrosion and the caliper body for gouges or leaks. Clean light dirt and mud with brake cleaner or isopropyl alcohol; do not contaminate new pad surfaces.
  7. Compress the caliper piston(s). Use a clean rag and a C-clamp to gently push the piston back into the caliper bore until it seats. This creates room for the new, thicker pads. Keep the brake reservoir cap closed or slightly loosened to avoid pressure buildup.
  8. Install new pads. Slide the new pads and any shims into the caliper in the correct orientation. Confirm pad backing plates face outward and friction material faces the rotor.
  9. Reinstall the retaining pin/clip. Replace the pin and secure the clip or retainer so pads cannot move. Tug the pads lightly to confirm they are locked in place.
  10. Reinstall the wheel (if removed) and tighten axle hardware to the proper compression and torque. Ensure rotor is centered between pad faces and wheel spins freely.
  11. Restore hydraulic pressure. With the bike on its stand and the wheel clear of the ground, slowly pump the brake lever or press the pedal until firm resistance returns and the pads contact the rotor. This seats the piston against the new pads.
  12. Final checks. Spin the wheel to confirm the rotor does not drag excessively. Check brake lever/pedal feel and retorque any fasteners if needed.

Inspection tips while you work

  • Rotor thickness & condition – look for deep grooves or bluish heat marks; excessive wear can reduce stopping power.
  • Brake fluid leaks – any wetness around caliper seals or hose connections indicates a problem that needs attention.
  • Caliper slide/guide movement – the caliper should move slightly on its slides; free movement ensures even pad wear. Clean slide pins and apply a small amount of high-temp brake grease if applicable.
  • Pad retaining hardware – ensure pins, clips, and any springs are straight and secure.
  • Remove trapped debris – mud and grit in the caliper bracket accelerates wear; clean passages and crevices.

Bedding in new pads

New pads need to mate with the rotor surface. Perform 8-12 controlled stops from low to moderate speed in a safe area. Gradually increase braking power with each stop so the pad surface transfers evenly to the rotor. Avoid repeated hard stops right away; let materials bed together for reliable bite and consistent feel.

Notes specific to the 2017 Honda CRF110F

The CRF110F is a small-displacement trail/youth bike with braking demands that differ from full-size motocross or enduro machines. The stock hydraulic disc you'll service here is designed for predictable, controllable stopping for novice riders. While many dirt bikes share similar caliper and rotor designs, small models like the CRF110F often use simpler retaining clip systems and compact calipers that make pad changes quick at the garage level.

Quick maintenance routine

  • Inspect pads visually every few rides and after muddy outings.
  • Keep the caliper and rotor clean and free of oil or grease.
  • Replace pads in pairs (both sides of a front dual setup or both pads in a single caliper) to maintain balanced braking.
  • Test brakes in a controlled environment after any work before riding aggressively.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 Honda CRF110F Dirt Bike.

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Shop Brake Lines for a 2017 Honda CRF110F Dirt Bike.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2017 Honda CRF110F Dirt Bike.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 Honda CRF110F 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.