How to Change Brake Pads on a 2017 Yamaha TTR125L Dirt Bike

How to Change Brake Pads on a 2017 Yamaha TTR125L

Brake system overview

Most modern dirt bikes including the 2017 Yamaha TTR125L use hydraulic disc brakes: a lever or pedal actuates a master cylinder, hydraulic pressure travels through the brake line to a caliper, and the caliper squeezes brake pads against a steel rotor to slow the bike. Key components you'll touch when changing pads are the brake lever or pedal, master cylinder, hydraulic line, brake caliper, brake pads, pad retaining pin or clip, and rotor.

When to replace brake pads & why it matters

Maintaining effective brakes preserves control and rider safety. Replace pads when you notice:

• Reduced braking power or longer stopping distances
• Squealing, squeaking, or grinding noises under braking
• Excessive brake lever or pedal travel
• Visible pad material worn thin – backing plate visible
• Heat discoloration or scoring on the rotor

Inspect pads regularly, especially after muddy trail rides or extended motocross sessions; contaminants and abrasive grit accelerate wear on the TTR125L's small-displacement braking system.

Tools & supplies you'll need

• Basic socket set and wrenches
• Needle-nose pliers or retaining-clip tool
• Flat screwdriver or pry tool (plastic preferred to avoid rotor damage)
• C-clamp or piston-compression tool
• Clean shop rags and brake cleaner
• Replacement brake pads sized for a 2017 Yamaha TTR125L
• Torque wrench (recommended for axle & caliper bolts)

Step-by-step – change the pads

The TTR125L commonly uses a simple single- or dual-piston hydraulic caliper. Follow these steps in a clean, well-lit space with the bike stable on a stand.

1. Prepare the bike and workspace

• Park the bike on a level surface and secure it on a stand so the wheel is off the ground. For the rear, use a proper rear stand; for the front, use a front stand or lift.
• Clean the area around the caliper to keep dirt out of the brake system.
• Have your replacement pads nearby and a rag ready for any fluid or debris.

2. Remove wheel if necessary

Depending on caliper design and access, you may be able to change pads with the wheel installed. If removal is easier, loosen the axle and remove the wheel following normal wheel-removal steps. Keep track of spacers and torque values for reassembly.

3. Remove the pad retaining pin or clip

• Locate the retaining pin or clip that secures the pads through the caliper. Use pliers to remove the clip, then slide out the pin.
• Set the hardware aside in order; some bikes use a split pin or circlip plus a cross-pin.

4. Slide the old pads out

With the pin removed, pull the old pads straight out of the caliper. They may be tight if the piston is extended; pry gently with a plastic tool if needed. Observe the pad backing plate for wear indicators.

5. Inspect rotor and caliper

• Look for scoring, warping, or heat discoloration on the rotor.
• Check the caliper for debris, cracked seals, or leaking brake fluid around the pistons or bleeder screw.
• Clean the caliper bracket and pad mounting areas with brake cleaner and a rag.

6. Compress the caliper piston(s)

Before installing new, thicker pads compress the piston(s) back into the caliper using a C-clamp or piston tool. Protect the piston face with a clean pad or rag to avoid damage. Compress slowly until the piston is fully seated so the new pads fit.

7. Install the new pads

• Ensure the pad friction material faces the rotor and any anti-rattle shims are correctly positioned.
• Slide new pads into the caliper grooves until they seat fully.

8. Reinstall retaining hardware

Reinsert the pad retaining pin and secure the clip or circlip. Confirm the pin is fully seated and the clip is locked; a loose pin is a common failure point.

9. Reinstall the wheel & torque hardware

If you removed the wheel, reinstall it, align spacers, and torque the axle and any pinch bolts to recommended values. Spin the wheel to ensure it rotates freely with the pads installed.

10. Restore hydraulic pressure

With everything back in place, pump the brake lever or press the pedal several times until firm to move the pads toward the rotor. Avoid riding until the lever feels solid and brakes engage normally.

Helpful inspection tips while you're in there

• Measure rotor thickness against new-rotor specs if available – significant thinning means replacement.
• Run your finger along the rotor for deep grooves or ridge lines; light surface scoring is normal, heavy grooves are not.
• Look for fluid leaks at hose connections, caliper piston boots, and the bleeder screw.
• Check the caliper slides or guide pins move freely; corrosion or binding reduces pad retraction and causes uneven wear.
• Clean mud and packed grit from the caliper bracket; trapped debris speeds pad and rotor wear.
• Confirm retaining pin and clips are tight and not excessively worn.

Bedding in new pads

Bedding pads creates a consistent transfer layer on the rotor. On the TTR125L perform a series of controlled stops from low speed to moderate speed:

• Make 8–12 stops from walking speed to about 15–20 mph, applying progressive braking to heat the pads but avoid locking the wheel.
• Allow short cool-downs between runs; avoid repeated full-force stops until the pad/rotor pair reach operating temperature gradually.
• After bedding, check lever feel again and retorque wheel hardware if needed.

Final checks

Confirm lever/pedal feel is firm, there are no unusual noises, and the wheel spins true without dragging. A quick test ride in a safe area will validate braking performance. Regular inspection after rides and swapping pads when wear gets close to the backing plate will keep your 2017 Yamaha TTR125L stopping reliably on trails, tracks, and around town.

Related Shopping Categories

Shop Brake Pads for a 2017 Yamaha TTR125L Dirt Bike.

Shop Brake Rotors for a 2017 Yamaha TTR125L Dirt Bike.

Shop Brake Lines for a 2017 Yamaha TTR125L Dirt Bike.

Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2017 Yamaha TTR125L Dirt Bike.

Shop Brake Tools for a 2017 Yamaha TTR125L 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.