Stopping on a dime.
It matters when it comes to riding motorcycles and dirt bikes. You probably also heard the phrase "you have to go slower to go faster" or some such conglomeration of those words.
But with bad brakes - or more poignantly - a bad braking system you won't get faster and you just might hit the dirt or other riders.
A brake system whether in a car or motorcycle consists of several complex components all working in unison to stop. When you apply the brakes by actuating the master cylinder, brake pads squeeze the brake rotor, which works with the brake caliper, creating friction to slow you down. A well designed and crafted brake rotor also dissipates heat generated from all this friction to prevent the brake system from overheating and keep rotors from warping in harsh heat/cool conditions.
As such, a brake rotor can make a significant difference in how your motorcycle or dirt bike handles in various conditions and on various terrains. An ideal setup offers consistent and reliable performance to slow you down and bringing you to a stop when needed.
Types of Brake Rotors
Several styles of brake rotors flood the market each offering its own benefits that work best on various terrains and/or riding styles. This guide breaks down the most popular brake rotors sold at MotoSport to hopefully give you a firm grip on the brake lever/pedal when it comes to slowing down...so you can go faster.
Fixed Brake Rotors
Fixed rotors come as a single-piece design. The braking surface of the rotor (where the brake pad squeezes) and the hub mount integrate as one solid unit.
Pros:
- Simplicity: The straightforward design makes them easy to install and maintain.
- Affordability: Generally, less expensive than floating or oversized rotors.
- Durability: Solid and dependable. A great choice for casual riders or those looking for a cost-effective option.
Cons:
- Heat Buildup: Fixed rotors succumb to warping under high heat faster than other styles because of the inability to expand independently.
- Limited Performance: Less braking consistency or power as other styles when used in extreme conditions.
Floating Brake Rotors
A floating rotor mounts the braking surface on a separate aluminum "rotor" or carrier connected with floating pins or rivets. This design allows the rotor to expand and contract independently from the hub preventing the rotor from warping.
Pros:
- Heat Management: The floating design dissipates heat better minimizes warping.
- Consistent Performance: Provides a more uniform braking feel.
- Durability: Endures aggressive riding.
Cons:
- Maintenance: The floating mechanism can accumulate dirt or wear.
- Cost: Floating rotors typically cost more.
Oversized Brake Rotors
Oversized rotors feature a larger diameter than standard size giving the brake system greater leverage and stopping power. The additional surface improves braking power making it easier for the whole brake system to slow or stop. You can get an oversized rotor as fixed or floating.
Pros:
- Enhanced Stopping Power: The larger size of the rotor delivers improved braking power ideal for use in Motocross and other competitive motorcycle racing events requiring precise braking control.
- Heat Dissipation: The larger surface disperses heat more effectively, reducing brake fade.
Cons:
- Fitment Issues: May require additional modifications, such as a relocation bracket for the brake caliper.
- Added Weight: A minimal increase in weight might affect handling but unlikely if you ride at the level this type of rotor demands.
Wave Brake Rotors
You can tell a wave brake rotor by the distinctive wavy edges serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. You can buy a wave brake rotor as fixed (below photo) or floating in standard or oversized.
Pros:
- Improved Cooling: The wavy design increases airflow around the rotor, enhancing heat dissipation.
- Reduced Weight: Wave rotors typically weigh less than other styles contributing to better handling and acceleration.
- Self-Cleaning: The wavy edges help clear mud, dirt, and debris from the rotor, making them ideal for off-road conditions.
Cons:
- Specialized Design: Though aesthetically cool looking, casual riders won't notice much difference between wave rotors and other less expensive styles.
- Higher Cost: Wave rotors cost more than standard versions.
Best Motorcycle Brake Rotors
Consider a few things when deciding on the best brake rotor for your motorcycle or dirt bike, and riding style. Those starting out or who casually ride can stick with the standard-sized fixed rotor. Aggressive Motocross or track racing usually calls for an oversized and/or floating rotor and if you want to tap into a wave brake rotor, run those when riding off-road trails or muddy tracks.
Mechanic's Tip: When replacing rotors, replace the brake pads regardless of use. This also marks a good time to check the calipers and master cylinder.
Once you get experience riding and figure out the mechanics of braking and how to go faster by going slower you can play around with various brake rotor styles and even go so far as to have several set-ups to address track, trail or road conditions.
Check out the entire MotoSport selection of motorcycle brake rotors.