How to Change Brake Pads on a 2018 Honda CRF110F
Shop parts for a 2018 Honda CRF110F Dirt Bike.Quick overview of the CRF110F brake system
The 2018 Honda CRF110F, like most modern dirt bikes in the youth trail/enduro category, uses hydraulic disc brakes: 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. Understanding that simple hydraulic action makes pad replacement straightforward at the garage level.
When to replace brake pads on your CRF110F
Change pads when you notice any of the following:
- Reduced braking power compared to normal
- Squealing, scraping, or grinding noises
- Excessive brake lever or pedal travel before engagement
- Visible pad material worn thin – less than 1.5-2 mm of friction material
- Heat discoloration or scoring on the rotor
Inspect pads after muddy rides or long sessions; youth bikes like the CRF110F often see fouling from dirt and water that accelerates wear.
Tools and prep
- Basic metric sockets and wrenches
- Pliers or small punch to remove retaining clip/pin
- Flat screwdriver or pry tool (plastic preferred to avoid rotor damage)
- Clean rag and brake cleaner or isopropyl alcohol
- Shop stand or stable work surface to support the bike
- New brake pads designed for the CRF110F
Work in a well-lit, level area. Avoid touching pad friction surfaces or rotor faces with greasy hands.
Step-by-step – changing the rear/front pads
The CRF110F typically has a single caliper per rotor. Order of removing wheel or not can vary depending on access; these steps assume common garage workflow and cover both possibilities.
- Secure the bike: Put the CRF110F on a stand so the wheel is off the ground and the bike is stable. Block the rear if working on the front and vice versa.
- Assess access: If you can access the caliper and retaining pin with the wheel in place, you can skip wheel removal. If access is tight, remove the wheel first by loosening axle hardware and sliding the wheel out.
- Remove the caliper retaining pin or clip: Locate the retaining clip/pin that holds the pads. Use pliers or a punch to remove the clip, then slide out the pin. Keep hardware organized for reinstallation.
- Slide out the old pads: Pull the pads straight out of the caliper carrier. Note their orientation and any shims or wear indicators so you can reinstall properly. If pads are stuck, gently pry with a plastic tool to avoid metal damage.
- Inspect rotor and caliper: Look for deep scoring, cracks, or excessive runout on the rotor and check the caliper for debris or fluid leaks. Clean the rotor face and caliper slide areas with brake cleaner or alcohol and a rag.
- Compress the piston(s): Before installing new pads, push the caliper piston(s) back into the bore to make room. Use a wide, flat tool and apply steady pressure; turn the piston slightly if it's threaded. Cover the pad area with a rag to catch brake fluid that may overflow into the reservoir; do not depress the brake lever while piston is out.
- Install the new pads: Place any shims in the same orientation as the old pads, then slide the new pads into the caliper carrier. Ensure friction surfaces face the rotor and backing plates align with the caliper grooves.
- Reinstall retaining hardware: Insert the pin and replace the clip securely. Confirm the pads are held firmly and the pin is fully seated.
- Reinstall the wheel (if removed): Refit the wheel, align axle and spacers, torque axle hardware to snug but not overly tight; ensure the rotor sits centered between pad faces.
- Restore hydraulic pressure: With the bike on the ground or securely supported, pump the brake lever or pedal several times until it firms up and the pads contact the rotor. Check lever/pedal travel is normal.
- Test ride and re-check: Perform low-speed controlled stops to confirm braking feels strong and consistent. Recheck hardware tightness and look for any leaks or abnormal noises.
Helpful inspection tips while you're in there
- Measure rotor thickness and visually check for heavy scoring or discoloration; replace rotor if deeply scored.
- Look for brake fluid seepage at the caliper seals or the hose connection – any leak needs attention.
- Make sure caliper slide pins move freely; clean and lightly lubricate slides with appropriate grease if they feel stiff.
- Remove mud, grit, and old pad dust from the caliper bracket and area around the rotor; contamination accelerates wear.
- Confirm retaining pin and clip are fully engaged; loose hardware can allow pad misalignment and uneven wear.
Bedding in new pads
Bedding transfers a thin, even layer of pad material to the rotor for predictable stopping. From low speed, perform 8–12 moderate stops from around 15-20 mph, allowing the brakes to cool briefly between repeated stops. Avoid hard stops immediately; start gentler and increase pressure. After bedding, check for consistent feel and no unusual noise.
Why this matters for your CRF110F
The CRF110F is a youth trail bike with lighter weight and lower top speed than adult motocross machines, but crisp, predictable braking is still essential for control and confidence. Proper pad maintenance preserves stopping power, reduces rotor wear, and keeps young riders safe on trails or in parking-lot practice.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Pads for a 2018 Honda CRF110F Dirt Bike.
Shop Brake Rotors for a 2018 Honda CRF110F Dirt Bike.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2018 Honda CRF110F Dirt Bike.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2018 Honda CRF110F Dirt Bike.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2018 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.
