brake disks and caliper troubles

[Mitch]

Has anyone got a good idea for cleaning rust off the brake disks?

Having not been out on the bike since October last year it's been left outside and the disks have gone a nice brown colour :(

Also, I've got to clean the calipers as they are binding quite badly up front.
Where should I start (i've got the Kawasaki manual but I'm still none the wiser)?

[Dougie]

I saw something about rusty discs in a bike mag years ago,Guzzis hsd (mebbe still have...) cast iron discs which rust if the weather turns slightly humid.Seemingly the best way to clean 'em was going for a run,when you braked the pads derusted the discs. :eek:
As for the calipers,take 'em off the forks,remove the pads,pump the pistons out slightly until you see shiny (not too far so they pop out) and give the calipers a damn good clean with brake cleaner.Use a soft toothbrush on stubborn crap then give the pistons a polish with Solvol or similar.Push the pistons back in,refit any dust seals,pads in,back on the bike then a careful test.

[Mitch]

thanks Dougie,

I think I'll give that a try soon. :D

[Grav]

If you have no bespoke brake cleaner, soapy water and a toothbrush works just as good with a little effort. Rinse thoroughly and they should be fine.

Rust comes off with a brillo pad.

[Dougie]

If yer worried about the discs try steel wool,and elbow grease (The ONLY grease to use on discs! :rolleyes: )
Damn,Grav's too quick!

[Kylie]

My rust came off after a few miles of braking....