Home. Back. ...... The Gas Gas Guru. Technical Information.
I have a 2000 280 Gas Gas and was wondering: The brakes seem to fade somewhat when doused in clean water (ie: a clean stream), but seem to remain grippy and powerful when bathed in gooey black mud. I wonder if there is something I can do to make these brakes ultra-powerful and grippy no matter if they are wet or dry. I am running stock pads with about 3 months wear on them. Also, I have not succeeded in obtaining a syringe with which to bleed brakes either from a farm supply store or from Rising Sun Imports. Is there anywhere or anyone that you would suggest?

The pads may have developed a slight "glaze" on the surfaces from use. Take the pads out and use about 280 grit wet/dry sandpaper to clean the glaze from the surface. Use a flat surface (a piece of glass works but be REALLY careful and duct tape the sides to keep from being cut) and use a "figure 8" motion to sand the pads. I like to clean my brake discs with a Scotchbrite type pad and contact cleaner. I'd replace the pads when the friction material is about 1.5 mm thick. The thicker the pad, the better it will work. I like to cut an "X" on the pad (a hacksaw will work) to channel out grit from the surface. Ask what some of the other riders are using, some like Galfer, some swear by Freno, others think Braking pads are the best. I use EBC Kevlar series on my Gas-Gas and really like them but other riders say they don't work as well in the wet. I think one of the best things to do is to keep the brake system clean and well serviced. As to the difference in mud and water operation, brakes rely on a certain amount of heat to work and the mud may insulate the pads somewhat (and the water act as a form of coolant/lubrication) and the grit in the mud can create a little more friction. For a syringe, you might try a medical supply company. Hope this helps.

Professional tuner and 'Trials Competition' writer Jon Stoodley has very kindly stepped up to the plate to answer your questions. If you're having problems, or need some advice just send an email to Jon. If it's something that could be useful to others, we'll post it on the site.
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