Hey everyone, I’ve got a Honda Shadow and recently I’ve started hearing this unsettling scraping noise coming from the rear wheel. It’s really bothering me and I’m concerned it might be a sign of a bigger issue.
Response
Hey there, I totally get your concern. I had the same issue with my Honda Shadow. After some investigation, I found that cleaning the brake dust build-up did the trick for me.
Solutions that worked for users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Personal Experience | Estimated Cost (USD) | Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Check Brake Dust Build-up | Not specified | Cleaned the brake dust and the noise stopped | $0 | 15-20 |
| Inspect Brake Shoes and Drum | Not specified | Checked the brake shoes and drum, no issues found | $0 | 25-35 |
| Check for Bearing Issues | Not specified | Checked the bearings, they were fine | $0 | 25-35 |
Symptoms
- Scraping noise from the rear wheel
- Noise intensifies when applying brakes
- Noise persists even after cleaning the wheel
Possible Causes
- Brake dust build-up
- Worn-out brake shoes or drum
- Wheel bearing issues
- Misaligned wheel
Solutions that Worked
1. Check Brake Dust Build-up
What I Did:
I inspected the rear wheel and brake assembly for brake dust build-up.
Outcome:
The scraping noise was eliminated after a thorough cleaning.
Personal Experience:
I used a soft brush and brake cleaner to remove the accumulated brake dust, and voila, the noise was gone.
Estimated Cost: $0
Time Needed: 15-20 minutes
Steps:
- Put on safety gloves and goggles.
- Use a motorcycle stand to lift the rear wheel off the ground.
- Remove the rear wheel by loosening the axle nut.
- Use a soft brush to gently remove loose brake dust.
- Apply brake cleaner to a cloth and wipe down the brake assembly.
- Reattach the rear wheel and tighten the axle nut.
- Lower the motorcycle from the stand.
Expert Tip:
Regular cleaning of brake dust not only prevents noises but also extends the life of your brake pads and rotors.
2. Inspect Brake Shoes and Drum
What I Did:
I took a close look at the brake shoes and drum for any signs of wear or damage.
Outcome:
Everything appeared to be in good condition.
Personal Experience:
I removed the rear wheel and closely inspected the brake shoes and drum. No issues were found.
Estimated Cost: $0
Time Needed: 25-35 minutes
Steps:
- Put on safety gloves and goggles.
- Use a motorcycle stand to lift the rear wheel.
- Remove the rear wheel by loosening the axle nut.
- Inspect the brake shoes for any signs of wear or unevenness.
- Check the drum for any scoring or damage.
- If everything looks good, reassemble the wheel.
- Lower the motorcycle from the stand.
Expert Tip:
Always measure the thickness of your brake shoes. If they are below the manufacturer’s recommended thickness, it’s time for a replacement.
3. Check for Bearing Issues
What I Did:
I inspected the wheel bearings for any signs of wear or damage.
Outcome:
The wheel bearings were in good shape.
Personal Experience:
I checked the wheel bearings and they were fine, ruling them out as the cause of the noise.
Estimated Cost: $0
Time Needed: 25-35 minutes
Steps:
- Put on safety gloves and goggles.
- Use a motorcycle stand to lift the rear wheel.
- Remove the rear wheel by loosening the axle nut.
- Rotate the wheel bearings by hand to check for any roughness.
- If the bearings feel smooth, they are likely in good condition.
- Reattach the rear wheel and lower the motorcycle from the stand.
Expert Tip:
If you’re unsure about the condition of your wheel bearings, it’s best to consult a qualified mechanic. Ignoring bearing issues can lead to catastrophic failure.
Motorcycle Models Where This Worked
- 2007 Honda Shadow 750
- 2006 Honda Rebel 250
- 2013 Yamaha FJR1300A
Handy Tips
- Always use manufacturer-recommended brake cleaner for best results.
- If you’re not comfortable removing the rear wheel, consult a professional.
- Keep a regular maintenance schedule to catch issues before they escalate.