R65 dual front disc brake problems

[devo]

When I put my 1980 R65 up on the centerstand and try to rotate the front wheel, it catches at the same point on every revolution. I can rotate it past the friction point, but in my novice mechanic opinion, the wheel should rotate freely with no contact from the pads. Am I wrong? Is this something I should get fixed or try fixing myself? I have dual front discs, Brembo. The bike stops fine, though a little squeaky. Thanks to anybody that can help!

[Kev M]

Hmmmm, are you sure it is the brakes?

If it is one or more of the rotors and they are binding, I would expect you to get front end wobble under braking.

However, if it is a wheel bearing problem you MIGHT have a tight spot.

Way to find out is simple... remove the brake pads one set and a time and spin the wheel to see if the problem goes away.

Kev

[devo]

I did as you said and removed one set of pads at a time. Friction was still there, but seemed like it's still rubbing on the brake pads. Moron that I am, I should have left both off and checked to see the wheel was spinning freely. I'll try that but I'm convinced it's the brakes, both of them making contact at the same spot of rotation. Could it be that the brakes aren't completely backing off when you release the brake lever? I did notice that after I took both brakes off and put them back on there was less rubbing, but after a nice afternoon ride, it was pretty much back to the way it had been before. I'll remove both and clean both the rotors and pads and see if that helps. This is a cherry R65 which has had more than $3k put into it in the last 4k miles, but little stuff like this drives me nuts. Maybe I should take my wife's advice and get a NEW bike (I've been drooling over F650cs's.)

[Kev M]

Originally posted by devo
When I put my 1980 R65 up on the centerstand and try to rotate the front wheel, it catches at the same point on every revolution. I can rotate it past the friction point, but in my novice mechanic opinion, the wheel should rotate freely with no contact from the pads. Am I wrong? Is this something I should get fixed or try fixing myself? I have dual front discs, Brembo. The bike stops fine, though a little squeaky. Thanks to anybody that can help!

Guess I assumed too much.

Yes, when I said remove the brake pads, one set at a time, I meant pick a side and remove it. Problem still there? Then remove the other ALSO... problem gone, it was that side of the brakes... problem still there it is the wheel bearing.

New bikes are great, but they are not without their issues too.

My advice, buy an F650 ALSO :D

[jgr451]

I would be guessing a slight high spot or warp on a rotor.Not serious.

[dlearl476]

Originally posted by jgr451
I would be guessing a slight high spot or warp on a rotor.Not serious.

I guess you haven't priced brake rotors lately.:confused:

[jgr451]

Well..if the rotor is fried and cannot be turned smooth and even...
True;luckily I did not have to.The OP is seeking ideas,not a parts changing list!