KTM UK would like to reiterate the necessity to correctly maintain the brake system on your KTM street motorcycle as per the owner’s manual, especially when your motorcycle has been used during severe adverse weather conditions, during or directly after road salting.

After use on heavily salted roads, wet salt and other debris can enter the brake pad area due to road spray. This will not affect a properly maintained braking system while riding, however, if this is left to dry and go hard, it may cause the brake pads to bind against the brake disc affecting the correct operation of the brake.

To prevent the build up of these deposits, KTM recommends that the brake calipers and pads are cleaned with clean cold water as soon as possible after use in these adverse conditions. Once the brakes have cooled, cold water from a hose pipe aimed into the brake pad area of the brake calipers will normally be sufficient to prevent any problems. It is preferable to use a mild motorcycle cleaner in spray form (not a solvent brake cleaner) before washing to help remove large deposits of road dirt, and then wash out with cold water; pressure washing is not recommended.

A small torch is useful for a visual inspection of the brake pad area and calipers to note if there is any build up of these deposits or rust that might prevent the correct action of the brake pads. Checking and routine cleaning does not necessitate the removal of any components of the braking system.

It should be stressed that when pushing or riding your KTM, should any stiffness of the brake lever or binding of the brake system be noticed, then the motorcycle should not be ridden. If it is suspected that the problem is due to salt related deposits, cleaning as above may well help the problem, however, it is recommended that the brakes be checked by a KTM dealership at the first opportunity, as in severe cases brake pad removal and cleaning may be necessary.

Should you have any concerns about the brake system on your motorcycle, KTM UK is offering Street bike owners a free winter brake system check which can be carried out by any authorised KTM Street motorcycle dealer until 31st March 2011. The check involves a visual inspection of the front and rear brake system including the brake pipes and fluid level, and also the removal of the brake calipers for a close inspection of the calipers and the brake pads. Replacement of worn parts and fluid and any additional cleaning is not covered by the free check.

This offer only applies to the KTM Street motorcycles owners on receipt of a letter from KTM UK. Prior booking with your KTM dealer is required and you should take this letter with you as proof of entitlement. The check does not constitute or replace normal routine maintenance and checks. Letters will be sent out shortly, If you do not receive a letter and would like to take up the offer, or are unsure on any of the points covered in this letter your KTM dealer will be happy to discuss this with you.