I have a recently purchased 1990 Sporty with 1991 miles on the clock. After 22 years, should I swap out the pads even though they have lots of meat left on them? I've been told that they dry out, but I don't really know if that's true. Rear brake squeaks a bit, but both seem to grip ok.

 

I would defintely change them out. They get brittle with age, and can break off while you ride.

 

If it ain't broke.
Inspect them very carefully. Make sure they aren't separating. If they don't have any defects try them out for the short term.

 

Brake pads are easy to change and cheap, it's not worth the risk.

GSF

 

With that low mileage it has obviously spent most of its life sitting doing nothing. I suggest a major service, with new oils throughout, flush brake fluid plus new tyres, if it doesn't already have them.

 

you know the ole sayin a ounce of pervention is worth?