Replacing rotors and reusing pads

[Kwikasfuki]

I'm intending on replacing the rotors with new aftermarket ones (Arashi I think).

I've just replaced the pads on the old rotors with new ones. They have about 700 highway miles on them at the moment. Is there any issues with reusing these pads, or should I replace them as well?

[VirginiaJim]

I would think that unless they are scored significantly it shouldn't matter.  You may want to sand them just a bit, though.  Also, take the cover off the master cylinder and make sure that you have room for brake fluid expansion.  If you don't, that could lead to problems when you put it all back together.  Don't ask me how I know this.

[Kwikasfuki]

I would think that unless they are scored significantly it shouldn't matter.  You may want to sand them just a bit, though.  Also, take the cover off the master cylinder and make sure that you have room for brake fluid expansion.  If you don't, that could lead to problems when you put it all back together.  Don't ask me how I know this.

I've done that one myself Pistons wouldn't go back, removed the brake reservoir cover, and out came the fluid. Thankfully had a cloth and water nearby ...

I can give the pads a light sanding. Do I need to use fine sand paper or can a get away with a fine file?

[Rhino]

I've done that one myself Pistons wouldn't go back, removed the brake reservoir cover, and out came the fluid. Thankfully had a cloth and water nearby ...

I can give the pads a light sanding. Do I need to use fine sand paper or can a get away with a fine file?

Just my opinion but I wouldn't use a file. If your going to do it at all use fine sand paper on a flat surface. You want the pad to be completely flat and even width.

[lather]

I think it could be a big mistake to use previously bedded-in pads with new rotors. I just installed new EBC rotors and pads. The instructions that came with the rotors say NEVER use partially used pads as it will cause highly extended bed-in time (up to 1000 miles) brake fade and void warranty) Check out this article: http://ebcbrakes.com/articles/bedding-in-new-motorcycle-pads-and-rotors/. I have never heard of Arashi, they could be different but I doubt it.

[VirginiaJim]

Sounds like good advice as well.  Up to you, Asif.

[Kwikasfuki]

Interesting. For cars apparently its recommended to use the old pads to bed the rotors in

[B.D.F.]

With 700 miles on them I would not think there would be enough change in the pad surface to need sanding. ?? But if you do do that, be careful because sandpaper grit may become embedded in the pads and "sand" the rotor down. As far as using a file, these are HH rated pads and will destroy a file in short order as they are very hard.

Brian

I've done that one myself Pistons wouldn't go back, removed the brake reservoir cover, and out came the fluid. Thankfully had a cloth and water nearby ...

I can give the pads a light sanding. Do I need to use fine sand paper or can a get away with a fine file?

[maxtog]

I've done that one myself Pistons wouldn't go back, removed the brake reservoir cover, and out came the fluid. Thankfully had a cloth and water nearby ...

I think this happens all the time.

Brake fluid is just NASTY.  It will pretty much instantly ruin your shield, the plastics, paint, I think even certain rubber.  If I am ever opening that sucker for any reason, I cover everything in layers of plastic sheets and towels.