How to Change Brake Pads on a 2019 Beta 350 RR Race Edition
Shop parts for a 2019 Beta 350 RR Race Edition Dirt Bike.Quick brake system overview
The 2019 Beta 350 RR Race Edition uses a modern hydraulic disc brake system typical of high-performance enduro/motocross-style dirt bikes. Key components you'll touch during a pad change include the brake lever or pedal, master cylinder, hydraulic brake line, brake caliper, brake pads, and the steel brake rotor. When you pull the lever or press the pedal, hydraulic pressure forces the caliper pistons to push the pads against the rotor, converting kinetic energy into heat to slow the bike.
When to replace brake pads & why it matters
Replace pads when stopping power drops or wear becomes obvious. Common symptoms include:
- Reduced braking power or longer stopping distances
- Squealing, scraping, or grinding noises
- Excessive lever or pedal travel before bite
- Visible pad material worn thin – backing plate becoming visible
- Heat discoloration or scoring on the rotor
On a 350cc race-biased dirt bike like the 350 RR Race Edition, reliable braking is essential for control in tight singletrack, fast downhills, and technical sections. Regular inspection after muddy rides, heavy braking sessions, or long race days prevents sudden loss of performance.
Tools & items you'll need
- Socket set and open-end wrenches
- Pliers or retaining-pin tool
- Flat screwdriver or small pry bar
- Clean rags and brake cleaner
- New brake pads sized for the 2019 Beta 350 RR Race Edition
- Rubber or latex gloves
- Shop stand or center stand to support the bike
- Torque wrench for axle and caliper bolts
Step-by-step: Changing the rear/front brake pads
Follow these steps in the order that best fits your caliper layout – front and rear are similar, with the front often needing wheel removal on some setups.
- Prepare the bike & workspace. Park on a flat surface, block the bike from rolling, and clean the area around the caliper to reduce contamination. Use a stand to lift the bike so the wheel can spin freely.
- Decide whether to remove the wheel. On many bikes you can remove pads with the wheel in place by turning the caliper or accessing the retaining pin. If access is tight, remove the wheel: loosen axle hardware, slide out the axle, and lift the wheel free, keeping track of spacers.
- Remove retaining pin or clip. Locate the pad retaining pin or spring clip that holds pads in the caliper. Use pliers or a screwdriver to remove the clip, then slide the pin free. Keep small hardware in a tray so nothing is lost.
- Slide the old pads out. Pull the pads straight out of the caliper bracket. If they're tight, gently pry with a screwdriver under the pad backing plate – avoid pushing on the pad friction surface.
- Inspect rotor & caliper. Look at rotor thickness, surface condition, and for deep grooves or discoloration. Check caliper bore area for rust, debris, or leaking fluid. Clean the caliper exterior and bracket with brake cleaner and a rag.
- Compress the caliper piston(s). With the old pads removed, push pistons back into the caliper to make room for thicker new pads. Use a wide, flat tool (plastic spreader or old pad) and apply even pressure to avoid tilting pistons. For the rear pedal setup, press slowly to avoid fluid overflow to the master cylinder reservoir; if fluid level is high, remove a little from the reservoir beforehand.
- Install new brake pads. Slide the new pads into the caliper, ensuring they seat correctly in the pad carriers and that any wear tabs point outward. Make sure pad friction material faces the rotor.
- Reinstall retaining pin/clip. Replace the pin and secure the retaining clip or cotter as originally configured. Confirm the pin is fully engaged and the clip is seated so pads cannot shift.
- Reinstall wheel (if removed). Refit the wheel, align spacers, and torque the axle and pinch bolts to spec. Spin the wheel to check clearance between the pads and rotor.
- Restore hydraulic pressure. Before riding, pump the brake lever or pedal several times until firm to move the pads into light contact with the rotor and restore normal lever feel. Check the brake fluid reservoir level and top up if needed.
Helpful inspection tips while you're in there
- Check rotor thickness and flatness – deep scoring or warping may mean rotor service or replacement.
- Look for brake fluid leaks around caliper seals, hose fittings, or master cylinder connections.
- Make sure the caliper slides freely on its guide pins or mounting points; sticky slides cause uneven pad wear.
- Clean mud, sand, and grit from the caliper bracket and carrier to prevent pad binding.
- Confirm the retaining pin and clips are the correct type and fully secure – a loose pin lets pads move unpredictably.
Bedding in new pads
Proper bedding helps the new pads mate with the rotor for consistent bite. Do a short sequence of controlled stops: accelerate to a moderate speed on a safe stretch, apply progressively firmer braking until near-stopping, then ride a short distance to cool. Repeat 6-10 times without locking the wheel. Avoid repeated hard stops from high speed for the first few miles to let materials stabilize.
Final checks
- Confirm lever/pedal feel is firm and travel is normal after pumping.
- Recheck axle and caliper mounting torque after a few short rides.
- Inspect pads again after the first hard day of riding to ensure even wear and no glazing.
Routine pad checks and simple replacement keep your 2019 Beta 350 RR Race Edition stopping predictably on trails, tracks, or technical terrain. With common tools and a clear sequence, you can perform this garage-level maintenance and get back to riding with confidence.
Related Shopping Categories
Shop Brake Pads for a 2019 Beta 350 RR Race Edition Dirt Bike.
Shop Brake Rotors for a 2019 Beta 350 RR Race Edition Dirt Bike.
Shop Brake Lines for a 2019 Beta 350 RR Race Edition Dirt Bike.
Shop Brake Bleeders for a 2019 Beta 350 RR Race Edition Dirt Bike.
Shop Brake Tools for a 2019 Beta 350 RR Race Edition 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.
