Harley brake problem?

Question

Rear brake on 2004 HD Sportster (13,500 miles) is making a humming sound (not a squealing or chirping) when almost to a stop (less than 15mph). The pads look ok and the rotor is smooth. No pulsation in pedal. No pulsing sensation while braking. Cleaned calipers and pads with brake cleaner. Problem resolved for several days but has returned.

Any clue as to what this might be and how to resolve it?

Answer 1

assuming it is your brakes.... take the pads out and put a very thin layer of high temp grease between the pistons and the backside of the pads.

Answer 2

I know they changed brake pad material on the Big Twins in 2004. Caused a lot of them to squeal. Could be the same type problem. The fix on the big twins is to remove the brake pads and bevel the leading edge.

Answer 3

I noticed in my owner's manual ('06) the other day a note about how the brakes may make some noise due to their choice of friction material. Supposedly it's normal.

Answer 4

Are you sure it's the brake that's making the noise? Maybe the rear wheel is mis-aligned and the belt is doing the humming.

Answer 5

My Fiance's harley makes that same sound and we had it checked out and it still does it. WE are still riding it and unless something Major gives, we are just gonna sit back and let our Hair Blow in the Wind....

Answer 6

if the cleaning you did helped.....even though for a short period..............you must be at the right place..............is your rotor polished?...............try ruffing it up with some sand paper......................a very polished rotor can make it vibrate [hum].

Answer 7

*tough voice* Ohh yeah, you just....

Who am I kidding?