2003 R1150RS Front Rotors warped?

[timothyboulay]

Aloha, I have a new to me 2003 R1150RS with 42000 miles and noticed that the front rotors seem warped, when applying the hand brake. The bike has ABS delete, and was wondering any tips, tricks that I need to know prior to installing new rotors and brake pads.

 

[RPGR90s]

Aloha, I have a new to me 2003 R1150RS with 42000 miles and noticed that the front rotors seem warped, when applying the hand brake. The bike has ABS delete, and was wondering any tips, tricks that I need to know prior to installing new rotors and brake pads.

If the rotors are varying thickness (around their circumference), that can cause the brake lever to pulse. Do you have a micrometer to measure thickness?

If the rotors are warped, you would be able to measure with a dial indicator, clamped to the fork tube(s). Know anyone with a dial indicator?

 

[Omega Man]

A simple “run-out” indicator can be made with a hose clamp and a piece of coat hanger. Elevate the wheel and clamp the piece of coat hanger to a fork leg. Bend the other end of the coat hanger so it just about touches the rotor. Slowly spin the wheel and look for a deviation.
True runout will require a dial indicator but if the deviation is excessive, you can look for why and if a rotor replacement is needed.
OM

 

[179411]

A really good cleaning of the rotors with brake clean or other degreaser may be in order. Any soap left over from a wash or inadvertent contamination with any oily product can cause pulsing.