My first GS500... brake question

[ponchopirate]

So I just got my first motorcycle... a 1989 GS500e  Runs solid, could use some cosmetic touchups.  Anyhow, I noticed the front brake pad is lightly pushing against the rotor, not enough to prevent the wheel from turning, but enough to creat some resistance when turning the wheel by hand and make a very quiet squeaking noise when I push the bike around.  A friend of mine said it was just because the brake pads are new (which they are) and that they will wear down after a few miles and everything will be fine.  Is this true or do I need to adjust the brake pads?  Advice is much appreciated.  Thanks!

[Bob Broussard]

The pads will loosen up after they wear a bit. There's no adjustments for the pads. You could take the caliper off and clean the pistons to make sure they move freely. But that's about it.
Since I'm in Salinas, I could check the bike out for you one day. Maybe make an advancer for it?

[ponchopirate]

Thanks for the info!  It would be great to have you check the bike out.

[mp183]

The brakes always touch the rotor, but there should not be much drag.
Try taking it out for 5 miles or so on the highway and bring it to a stop without using the front brake.  Check the rotor.  It should not be hot.  Should not even be warm if you did not use it to stop.