My guess is gravel, sand and other debris. His bike won't have ABS, so it's kinda like dirt biking. Too much front brake and the wheel locks and snowplows.

 

Yeah, brake squeal on a bike is annoying. If you put the grease on, use the front brake regularly, even if you just use it gently.
It keeps it working. On another bike I had it started squealing in the spring on the first ride of the year.
I just did a few 'emergency stops' with it and it quietened down. It must have been glazed or something. Getting it hot fixed that one.

 

In addition to the "anti-squeal" on the pad backing plates, as mentioned in previous posts, I also apply some to the slider/retainer pin.

Filing or grinding a small chamfer/bevel on the leading and trailing edge of new pads can also help...the article below explains why...

Why Do Motorcycle Brake Pads Need to be Chamfered?

When it comes to motorcycle safety, braking is of utmost importance. As riders, we rely on our brake pads to bring us to a stop quickly and smoothly, ensuring our well-being on the road. But have you ever wondered why motorcycle brake pads need to be chamfered? In this article, we will explore the significance of chamfering brake pads and its impact on your riding experience.

What is Chamfering?
Before delving into the importance, it's essential to understand what chamfering is. In the context of brake pads, chamfering refers to the process of beveling or rounding off the edges of the brake pad material. This creates a sloping surface at the pad's outer edges.

Enhanced Performance
Chamfering your motorcycle brake pads plays a crucial role in maintaining their optimal performance. Here's why:

1. Noise Reduction
One common problem that riders face is brake squeal or noise. This unpleasant noise can be disruptive and even cause discomfort. Fortunately, chamfering the brake pads can effectively reduce noise levels. By rounding off the edges, any vibrations or harmonics generated during braking are minimized, resulting in a quieter ride.

2. Improved Pad Wear
Chamfered brake pads also promote more even and controlled pad wear. The beveled edges allow the pads to make full and uniform contact with the brake rotor. This helps distribute the braking force evenly across the pad surface, preventing premature or uneven wear. Ultimately, chamfering extends the lifespan of the pads and ensures optimal braking performance in the long run.

3. Heat Dissipation
Brake systems generate significant heat during braking. Chamfering the brake pads aids in heat dissipation by improving airflow and reducing thermal stress. The beveled edges allow air to flow smoothly over the brake pads, cooling them down. This helps prevent brake fade, a phenomenon where the brake performance deteriorates due to excessive heat.

4. Smooth Braking Experience
Finally, chamfered brake pads offer a smoother and more consistent braking experience. The rounded edges facilitate a gradual engagement of the brake pads onto the rotor surface, preventing any sudden jolts or abrupt stops. This enhances overall control and maneuverability, providing riders with a safer and more enjoyable ride.

Conclusion
While the importance of brake pads in motorcycle safety cannot be overstated, chamfering them is an often overlooked aspect. By rounding off the edges, chamfering enhances performance, reduces noise, ensures even pad wear, aids in heat dissipation, and delivers a smoother braking experience. As responsible riders, it is crucial to include chamfering as a regular maintenance practice, ensuring our safety and the longevity of our brake pads.

 

Interesting read, and I have chamfered brakes to reduce a buzzing noise on application. However, sooner or later the pads wear past the chamfer and now have sharp edges again, yet the performance doesn't change How come that is?

 

[QUOTE=btsom;21616104]Interesting read, and I have chamfered brakes to reduce a buzzing noise on application. However, sooner or later the pads wear past the chamfer and now have sharp edges again, yet the performance doesn't change How come that is?[/QUOTE]

I think the chamfering initially helps the pads bed in properly and conform to the shape of the rotor.

Now, that said, I still had to periodically re-chamfer the rear pads on my Honda VTX 1800 to prevent moaning and groaning...fortunately the pads just popped out of the calipers without removing the calipers...much easier job than on my Road King.

I have also noticed that the pads for some sport bikes and light-weight bikes are pre-chamfered. In some cases the chamfer is so deep that it extends practically to the backing plate, so some chamfer is always present.