motorcycle master cylinder

What is the role of the master cylinder?

The main role of the brake master cylinder in a motorcycle is to convert the force exerted on the brake handle into hydraulic pressure.

This pressure is then transmitted to the brake calipers, which use this pressure to squeeze the brake pads against the rotors or drums, which helps slow or stop the motorcycle.

The master cylinder therefore plays a crucial role in the safety of the motorcycle by allowing the rider to brake effectively.

What is the role of the motorcycle clutch lever?

The motorcycle clutch lever is a mechanical component that couples and decouples the engine from the motorcycle transmission.

It is located on the handlebars, and the rider uses it to operate the clutch. When the rider presses the clutch lever, it decouples the engine from the transmission, allowing the motorcycle to be shifted or put into neutral.

When the rider releases the clutch lever, the engine is coupled to the transmission again, allowing the motorcycle to resume moving.

The clutch lever is therefore an important element for the proper functioning and safe driving of the motorcycle. The motorcycle clutch master cylinder can also be hydraulic as for braking.

What are the types of master cylinder?

There are two main types of brake master cylinder for motorcycles:

• The axial master cylinder (standard because the most widespread): a piston which pushes the brake oil towards the brake calipers. It is generally used on small and medium displacement motorcycles because it is simple to manufacture and maintain. It is coupled to axial brake calipers as well.

• The radial master cylinder : which are used on high-end motorcycles, they are lighter, more compact and more aesthetic. They also have better pressure distribution and greater braking power.

There are also adaptive master cylinders that are equipped with a system that automatically adjusts the distance between the brake handle and the lever. It also allows you to adjust the braking sensitivity (more or less "bite"). This system is used to facilitate the use of the motorcycle for riders of different sizes and to improve riding comfort and therefore safety.

How can I distinguish the type of braking on my motorcycle (Radial or Axial)?

These thermals are identical to the denomination of the brake caliper. You must take your wheel as a reference point. In the axis of the wheel then called "Axial" and in the direction of the radius of the wheel then called "Radial". If you want to know more, you can check out our blog posts.

Why change the master cylinder?

There are several reasons why it may be necessary to change the brake master cylinder on a motorcycle:

• Normal wear: The master cylinder is a mechanical component that experiences considerable forces when the driver presses the brake handle. Over time, parts can wear out and become less efficient. If you notice that your motorcycle is not braking as well as it used to, it is possible that the master cylinder is worn out and needs to be replaced. On some high-end master cylinders, there are kits to replace only the faulty internal parts.

• Oil leak: The master cylinder is filled with brake oil which is used to transmit pressure from the brake lever to the brake calipers. If you notice brake oil leaking around the brake handle, the master cylinder seal may be damaged and need to be replaced.

• Improved performance: Some riders want to improve the performance of their motorcycle and replace the master cylinder for a more efficient model that allows better braking power and better distribution of pressure.

It's important to note that these are general cases, so it's important to see a mechanic to check the condition of your master cylinder and decide if a replacement is needed.

How to choose the right master cylinder?

There are several factors to consider when choosing a new brake master cylinder for your motorcycle:

• Compatibility: Make sure the motorcycle brake master cylinder you buy is compatible. It is important to check your engine displacement and brake type (disc or drum) to ensure the new master cylinder is compatible.

• Size: It is important to choose the correct size master cylinder for your motorcycle. The larger the displacement of your engine, the larger the master cylinder needs to be to generate enough pressure to brake effectively. Attention you must always keep a homogeneity with the stirrup(s).

• Type: There are different types of master cylinder, like radial or axial piston master cylinder it is important to choose the right type according to your needs and preferences.

• Brand: Choosing a good quality master cylinder is important to ensure reliability and durability.

• Installation: It is important to check if the installation of the master cylinder is easy and if the necessary tools are included. It is also important to check if the installation instructions are clear and easy to follow.

It is important to note that these criteria are general and it is important to consult a mechanic to check which master cylinder is best suited for your motorcycle. It may also be worth checking out biker forums and user reviews for information on the different models available.

How to bleed the master cylinder? (pay attention to the brake and clutch switches)

Motorcycle master cylinder bleeding is a process of removing air from the brake system. This is necessary when air has entered the system, which may cause malfunction or reduced braking power. Here are the general steps for bleeding a brake master cylinder:

1. Prepare the necessary materials : You will need a brake bleeding kit, clean brake oil and a tool to loosen the brake fittings.
2. Locate the brake master cylinder: The brake master cylinder is usually located on the handlebars of the motorcycle, it is often covered with a cover.
3. Loosen the brake bleeders : Use the appropriate tool to loosen the brake bleeders located on the brake master cylinder and on the caliper. Be prepared to catch any oil that will leak out as you loosen the fittings.
4. Bleed the system : Use the brake bleeding kit to bleed the system. Depending on the kit, it may be necessary to squeeze a pump to suck in the air or squeeze the brake lever to push the air out.
5. Check the oil level : When the air is out, fill the master cylinder with clean brake oil to the proper level. During the operation, make sure you always have liquid in your jar. The type of oil to use is usually listed on the brake reservoir cap.
6. Reinstall brake fittings: Re- tighten brake fittings and check for oil leak.
7. Test the brake : Test the brake to make sure it works properly. It is important to do this on safe ground and with moderate speed. You can also wait several hours to check if air bubbles are still present in the circuit. These will go up and your lever will "pout", you will then have to start again.

This is a major component in the safety of your motorcycle. We advise you to hire a professional . You can also consult on Youtube a large number of explanatory videos.

We offer quality master cylinder kits with clutch lever to match the style of your motorcycle: