How to Change Brake Pads on a 2019 Honda CRF110F Dirt Bike

Shop parts for a 2019 HONDA CRF110F Dirt Bike.

Quick overview of the braking system

The 2019 Honda CRF110F, like most modern dirt bikes in the youth/trail category, uses a hydraulic disc brake setup. Key components you'll work with are:

  • Brake lever (front) or pedal (rear) and master cylinder
  • Hydraulic brake line conveying pressure
  • Brake caliper housing the pad set and piston(s)
  • Brake pads & retaining hardware
  • Steel brake rotor (disc)

When you press the lever or pedal, hydraulic pressure pushes the caliper piston(s), forcing the pads to clamp the rotor and slow the bike.

When to replace brake pads – symptoms to watch for

  • Reduced braking power or longer stopping distances
  • Squealing, squeaking, or grinding noises when braking
  • Excessive lever or pedal travel before the brakes bite
  • Pad material visibly thin – less than 1.5-2 mm of friction material
  • Heat discoloration or heavy scoring on the rotor

Inspect pads after muddy rides, long trail sessions, or if you notice any of the above. Worn pads compromise control and should be replaced promptly.

Tools & supplies you'll need

  • New brake pads sized for a 2019 Honda CRF110F
  • Socket set or wrench for axle & caliper fasteners
  • Pliers or flat screwdriver for retaining clips/pins
  • Small C-clamp or piston-compressing tool
  • Clean shop rags and brake cleaner (non-residue)
  • Torque wrench (recommended) and a container for old parts

Step-by-step – change the brake pads

  1. Prepare the bike and workspace. Park the CRF110F on level ground and stabilize it with a stand so the wheel can rotate freely. Clean the caliper and surrounding area to remove mud and grit.
  2. Decide if you need to remove the wheel. On the CRF110F the front or rear pad change can often be done with the wheel mounted depending on caliper access. If the retaining pin is easier reached with the wheel out, remove the axle and slide the wheel free.
  3. Access the pad retaining pin or clip. Locate the pad retaining pin/clip on the caliper. Remove any retaining cotter pin, spring clip, or circlip with pliers or a screwdriver and slide the pin out.
  4. Remove the old pads. Pull the pads straight out of the caliper. Note pad orientation and any shims or backing plates so you can reinstall identical pieces.
  5. Inspect caliper & rotor. Check the rotor for scoring, cracks, or heavy discoloration. Look for brake fluid leaks around the caliper piston boot. Clean debris from the caliper bracket and rotor with a rag and brake cleaner.
  6. Compress the caliper piston(s). With the old pads removed, push the piston(s) back into the caliper housing to create clearance for the new pads. Use a C-clamp or piston tool, pressing squarely on the piston face. Have a rag between clamp and piston to protect the seal.
  7. Fit the new pads. Slide the new CRF110F pads into the caliper in the same orientation as the originals. Replace any shims or anti-rattle clips. Make sure the pad friction material faces the rotor.
  8. Reinstall retaining pin/clip and secure hardware. Reinsert the retaining pin through the caliper and pads, then replace the clip or cotter pin. Ensure the pin is fully seated and the clip locks in place.
  9. Reinstall the wheel (if removed) and torque axle hardware. Refit the wheel and torque axle nuts to spec where possible. Spin the wheel to confirm free rotation and no binding from the caliper.
  10. Restore hydraulic pressure. Gently pump the brake lever or pedal several times until it firms up — this moves the pads to contact the rotor. Check pedal and lever travel and make minor adjustments to the lever free-play if needed.
  11. Final checks. Confirm the retaining pin is secure, no fluid is leaking, and the caliper slides freely without sticking. Wipe any fingerprints or oil off the rotor surface.

Helpful inspection tips while you're in there

  • Measure rotor thickness visually & by feel – severe scoring or grooves mean the rotor may need machining or replacement.
  • Look for any fluid seepage around the piston boot or lines; a wet boot can indicate a leak requiring attention.
  • Make sure caliper guide pins or slide surfaces are clean and move freely – a stuck caliper will wear pads unevenly.
  • Remove packed mud or pebbles from the caliper bracket and dust channels so the pads seat correctly.
  • Confirm the retaining pin and clip fit without excessive play and are not bent or corroded.

Bedding in new pads

New pads need a short break-in to transfer a thin, even layer of friction material onto the rotor. Perform 6-10 controlled stops from low speeds, allowing brief cool-downs between bursts. Avoid heavy emergency stops during the first ride. Proper bedding restores consistent bite and reduces glazing or uneven wear.

Notes on model-specific context

The 2019 Honda CRF110F is a youth/trail 110cc dirt bike with braking demands different from larger motocross or enduro machines. While the CRF110F's hydraulic disc setup is similar to larger bikes, the rotor and pad sizes are smaller and easier to service in a simple garage environment. No major generational caliper redesigns are widely reported for this year, so standard pad replacement steps apply; vary your step order when you service adjacent model years to account for minor hardware differences.

Wrap-up

Changing brake pads on a 2019 Honda CRF110F is a straightforward maintenance task you can do with basic tools. Regular inspection, prompt replacement when symptoms appear, and a proper bedding procedure keep braking performance predictable and safe so you can focus on riding.

Related Shopping Categories

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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.