Replacing a 1987 Harley-Davidson Sportster's rear brake pads as soon as the pad wears down to 2 mm of material will ensure that the machine's brake operates at its maximum efficiency. However, a Sportster built in 1987 may have one of two different rear caliper types, depending on the time of the year it was produced. While this could lead to some confusion when time comes to remove and replace the brake pads, the method used to do so remains very similar.
Tools Used: Allen key set, Brake cleaner, Rags, Brake pads
Change the Rear Brake Pads
Early 1987 Models
Remove the caliper mounting bolts on both ends of the rear caliper with an Allen key. Pull the rear brake caliper up and off of the wheel's brake rotor and the caliper's mounting bracket.
Remove the brake pads from both sides of the rear caliper's mounting bracket. Clean the bracket thoroughly with brake cleaner and wipe dry with a rag. Place the new brake pad set onto the mounting bracket.
Clean the inside of the brake caliper with brake cleaner and wipe dry with a rag. Use a flat screwdriver to press the caliper's piston into the caliper housing.
Slide the rear brake caliper over its mounting bracket and the brake pads. Insert the caliper's mounting bolts and tighten them with an Allen key. Depress the rear brake lever repeated to close the caliper's piston against the brake pads.
Late 1987 Models
Remove the brake caliper's mounting bolts with an Allen key. Pull the caliper off of the rear wheel's brake rotor and away from its mounting bracket.
Pull the brake pads out of the brake caliper. Pull the spring clip off of the brake pads. Remove the retaining clips from both sides of the pads. Discard the old brake pads. Place the retaining clips onto the sides of the new brake pad set. Slip the spring clip over the brake pads.
Clean the inside of the brake caliper with brake cleaner and wipe dry with a rag. Use a flat screwdriver to press the caliper's piston into the caliper housing.
Insert the brake pads into the brake caliper. Slide the caliper over the rear brake rotor and onto the caliper's mounting bracket. Insert the caliper's mounting bolts and tighten them with an Allen key. Depress the rear brake lever repeated to close the caliper's piston against the brake pads.
Tips & Warnings
Inspect your brake pads often to prevent the pads from wearing down to their metal backing plate. Completely worn-out brake pads will damage the rear brake rotor.
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