This should be a fairly simple question:

I just got a lightly used GS from a dealership (lightly used meaing 300 miles), and have noticed that at low speeds the rear break squeaks.  At higher speeds (above 30) there is no sound at all when i use it.  I don't see how the break could be worn after only 300 miles, and I know (at least with cars) taht sometimes other factors can cause squeaks (water, for one).

I've tried to look at the pads, but I have really no idea what i'm looking for.  So that's the first question, how can i tell if the pads are run down?

Second, assuming they are, how difficult is it to install new pads?

My First bike... and i'm new to all of this...

thnx

-n

THe bike has a total of 300 miles?

Because if it does that would almost be considered never used  :lol:

But there is a plastic cover on the top portion of brake caliper, that can simply be poped off and will expose the pads.

The rear squeak is a common thing for GS500's , mine squeaks and I have done everything under the sun to try to stop it, I just use my rear break less at slow speeds  

Welcome and congradultions on the purchase of a low mile GS!

Depending on how squeeky the rear brake is, the metal backing shims may be:
There, but not working.
On the wrong side of the brake pad.
Or, just plain not there.

Make sure they slide easily along the retaining pin.

If it was me, and the noise is not that bad, and everything is in it's place and working properly, I'd probably get used to it after a while (if it squeeks, at least I know it's working).

I wonder if the rear pads were bedded in (broken in) properly.

The pads might not be broken yet, I have heared that they will squeak if they are new, but they also squeak if the vibrate.  Mine did this and  the pads vibrate when applying the brake and its the back of the pad that makes the noise.  I put 1207b on the back of mine and put the pads back in and no more squeak, I let it dry of course.  But you could also try the brake pad grease, also applied to the back of the pad but its a grease not a rubber sealant like the 1207b, the 1207b is made by suzuki.  If you decide to use the 1207b apply a thin coating not a whole lot.  It will require you remove the caliper but you then wont have to worry about squeaky pads anymore.  Peace

My new pads squeaked a little bit for the first few rides but that went away after 100 miles or so. I'm using the EBC which are supposedly a lot like the stock pads.

I wouldn't worry too much at this point.

Thanks a lot for the info/suggestions!  Defenitly appreciated.

I forgot to add that the shims may be switched left/right.