Motorcycle drum brake hub

Types of Motocycle Drum Brake Hub

Motorcycle drum brake hubs are used in the braking system to slow down and stop motorcycles. They differ in construction and application. Here are some common types:

• Single leading shoe drum brakes

  SLD brakes have one set of brake linings facing the wheel's movement direction. The brake lining rubs against the drum's internal surface when the brake is applied, creating friction and slowing the motorcycle down. Most motorcycles with SLD brakes have lightweight and simple brake systems.

• Double-leading-shoe drum brakes

  DLS drum brakes have two sets of brake linings that face the wheel's movement direction. The linings rub against the drum's internal surface when the motorcycle brakes. DLS brakes offer more braking power and are more responsive than SLD brakes. For this reason, they are used on heavyweight and high-speed motorcycles.

• Double-sliding-shoe drum brakes

  Like the DLS drum brakes, the linings in the DSS drum brakes face the wheel's movement direction. However, the brake shoes are opposite each other and move parallel when the brake is applied. As a result, the brake linings and shoes do away with the need for a brake cylinder. This makes the motorcycle's drum brake hub more compact and simple. DSS drum brakes are mostly found on older and classic motorcycles.

• Combined drum brakes

  In combined drum brakes, the braking force is applied to both the internal and external surfaces of the drum. This offers additional braking power and stability. Combined drum brakes are used in motorcycles that require high performance, such as racing and off-road bikes.

Specification & Maintenance of Motorcycle Drum Brake Hub

The motorcycle drum brake hub specification may differ depending on the motorcycle model and its variations. Below are some general specifications:

• Size

  The motorcycle drum brake hub comes in different sizes. The size of the drum hub is measured from one edge of the brake drum to the opposite edge. This includes the brake lining. Generally, a larger drum offers better braking since it provides a larger braking surface. A smaller drum compromises braking performance. Common drum sizes include 125 mm, 150 mm, and 180 mm.

• Material

  The motorcycle drum brake hub is made of cast iron, which is the standard material used to manufacture other components like the brake linings. Cast iron is used because of its high wear resistance and excellent strength. Advanced drum brake hubs are made of aluminum alloys. These include 7075 and 6061 aluminum alloys.

• Mounting

  The motorcycle drum brake hub is mounted on the wheel using bolts. The mounting pattern and number of bolts differ depending on the motorcycle's design. Common mounting patterns include 4 bolts at 100 mm PCD and 5 bolts at 120 mm PCD. PCD refers to the pitch circle diameter, which is the diameter of an imaginary circle where the bolt holes are located.

• Cooling

  The drum brake cooling mechanism is the same as the hub cooling. The drum's design and material affect the cooling performance. Some motorcycle drum hubs have cooling holes that increase the surface area and allow the heat to dissipate. Others have cooling fins that improve airflow and enhance the cooling effect.

• Weight

  Heavy drum brake hubs increase the motorcycle's weight and compromise its performance. This is because more energy is required to accelerate or decelerate. Also, the braking force has to be applied for a longer time before the motorcycle comes to a stop. Common drum brake hubs weigh between 1.5 kg and 3 kg.

Maintaining the motorcycle drum brake hub is important to ensure safety and enhance its lifespan. Below are the drum brake hub maintenance tips:

• Visual Inspection: The first step in maintaining the motorcycle drum brake hub is to do a visual inspection. Check for any signs of damage like cracks, rust, and wear. Also, inspect the brake linings for wear. If they are worn out, replace them before they damage the drum.
• Cleaning: Clean the motorcycle drum brake hub regularly to remove dust, debris, and dirt. Use a soft brush or cloth, so the drum's surface is not scratched. Rinse the hub with clean water to remove the accumulated dirt after a long ride on a dirty road.
• Lubrication: Proper lubrication reduces the friction between the moving parts of the motorcycle drum brake hub and the brake shoes. Use high-quality lubricant to ensure the brake shoes and other components work smoothly.
• Adjustment: The brake shoes and linings gradually wear out over time, affecting the braking performance. Adjust the brake shoes and lining if the braking performance is compromised. Proper adjustment ensures the shoes make even contact with the drum.
• Replacement: Replace worn-out components of the motorcycle drum brake hub. This includes the hub, brake shoes, linings, and other related components.

How to choose motorcycle drum brake hubs

Choosing the right motorcycle drum brake hub requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure compatibility, safety, and performance. Here are some tips to help make an informed decision:

• Compatibility

  Ensure that the motorcycle drum brake hub is compatible with the motorcycle's make and model. This includes checking the size, mounting points, and brake shoe fitting of the drum brake hub to ensure a perfect fit.

• Quality and reliability

  Consider the quality and reliability of the motorcycle drum brake hubs. Premium drum brake hubs are more expensive, but they have longer service life and higher performance. Users should also read reviews and feedback from other customers to learn about the quality and reliability of the drum brake hubs they intend to buy.

• Style and design

  Choose a style and design of a motorcycle drum brake hub that fits the motorcycle's overall style and personal preferences. There are many different designs and colors of drum brake hubs for users to choose from.

• Price

  Consider the cost of the motorcycle drum brake hubs. Premium products will have a higher price, but they provide better quality and performance. Users should choose products with prices corresponding to their needs and budgets.

• Installation and maintenance

  Consider the installation and maintenance of motorcycle drum brake hubs. Some hubs may require specialized tools or knowledge to install, while others may be easier to install by yourself. Additionally, choose hubs that are easy to clean and maintain to ensure long-term, stable performance.

• Warranty and after-sales service

  Check the warranty and after-sales service of the motorcycle drum brake hub. A reliable supplier will provide a warranty for their products and good after-sales service to help users solve problems related to products and services.

How to DIY and Replace Motocycle drum brake hubs

Replacing a motorcycle drum brake can be quite a task. However, it is doable with the right tools and knowledge. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to replace a motorcycle drum brake hub:

Before starting the process, ensure that all the necessary tools are available. These include:

• Socket wrench
• Torque wrench
• Drum brake hub puller
• Brake shoes
• Spring compressor
• New brake shoes
• Hub assembly grease
• Cleaning cloth

Step-by-step guide

• Prepare the motorcycle

  Park the motorcycle on a level ground and ensure that it is stable and secure. Turn off the ignition and disengage the gears. Also, disconnect the battery to avoid any accidents.

• Remove the wheel

  Using a socket wrench, loosen the bolts holding the wheel in place. Then, lift the motorcycle using a jack and remove the wheel.

• Remove the hub assembly

  Loosen the bolts holding the hub assembly in place. Then, use a drum brake hub puller to remove the hub assembly.

• Remove the old brake shoes

  Using a spring compressor, remove the springs holding the brake shoes in place. Then, remove the brake shoes from the drum.

• Clean the drum and hub assembly

  Using a cleaning cloth, clean the inside of the drum and the hub assembly. This is also a good time to check for wear and tear on the drum and hub. If they are damaged, replace them.

• Install the new brake shoes

  Place the new brake shoes inside the drum. Then, use a spring compressor to attach the springs to the shoes.

• Reattach the hub assembly

  Apply grease on the hub assembly and insert it back into the drum. Then, tighten the bolts to hold it in place.

• Reattach the wheel

  Place the wheel back onto the motorcycle and tighten the bolts. Lower the motorcycle and ensure that it is stable.

• Reconnect the battery

  Reconnect the battery and ensure all the connections are secure.

• Test the brakes

  Before riding the motorcycle, test the brakes to ensure they are working properly. Press the brake lever a few times to adjust the brake shoes.

Q and A

Q1: What is a motorcycle drum brake hub?

A1: A motorcycle drum brake hub is a component of the motorcycle's wheel that houses the drum brake system. The brake shoes inside the brake drum are pushed against its inner surface to slow down or stop the motorcycle when it is activated.

Q2: What are the advantages of motorcycle drum brake hubs?

A2: The users can enjoy several benefits. Firstly, they offer excellent braking control, especially in wet conditions. Secondly, they are less prone to damage from water and mud, making them ideal for off-road or all-terrain motorcycles. Lastly, drum brake hubs require less frequent maintenance compared to other braking systems.

Q3: Can users upgrade their existing brake systems to drum brake hubs?

A3: Upgrading to a drum brake hub is feasible, but it requires careful consideration and professional installation. This is because not all motorcycles are designed to accommodate drum brake systems, and modifications may be necessary.

Q4: Are motorcycle drum brake hubs suitable for high-performance bikes?

A4: While drum brake hubs provide reliable braking performance, especially for classic and off-road motorcycles, they may not meet the high-performance braking demands of modern sports bikes. Users can consult with brake system experts to meet the specific needs of high-performance motorcycles.

Q5: How can users choose the right brake shoes for their motorcycle drum brake hubs?

A5: When selecting brake shoes for motorcycle drum brake hubs, users must consider factors such as riding style, drum brake hub size, and material preferences. They can also consult the motorcycle manual or seek professional advice to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.