Components Helpful in Maintaining Two Wheelers

Two wheeler clutches and brakes are the essential components of a two-wheeler, a well working braking system is absolutely essential for the safety of the two wheeler and its' rider. The various components which make up the braking system are as follows. Brake cylindercontains brake fluid, which is compressed by a piston generating the engine power. There are primarily three kinds of brake cylinders. Standard wheel cylinder, stepped wheel cylinder and single piston wheel cylinder.

• Brake cylinder should be properly maintained as they play a key role in the drum brakes. A leaky brake cylinder can contaminate the brake lining and can cause failure of the brake system.
• Brake levers are found on the right side of most two wheelers and it has to be pulled to apply the brakes. Though it is very difficult to classify brake levers they can be classified into two broad categories: mountain bar or flat lever or drop bar lever. The brake and clutch levers should be cleaned and lubricated regularly and it is also necessary to adjust the handle bar lever to compensate for the brake pad wear and tear.
• The brake drum is an essential component of a drum brake system, on application of the brake the brake shoes inside the brake drum expands thus resulting in the slowing down of the vehicle or bringing it to a screeching halt. The inner surface of the brake drum should be smooth and it should generate heat efficiently for the durability of the brake shoes and better friction. The brake drum prevents water and dirt from entering the brake system and provides the necessary contact area for the brake to function.
• Brake lining is an essential part of the brake pad and its comes with contact with the brake drum once brake is applied thus bring the two wheeler to a screeching halt. Brake lining could be woven or molded. It should be able to resist high temperatures and should have a high resistance quality. The brake lining should be properly maintained and need to be changed regularly to protect the rotor or drum.
• Brake fluid is a special type of hydraulic fluid used for brake application in two wheelers. It is absolutely necessary for optimum performance of two wheeler braking system. It should be changed at regular intervals.
• Brake pads come in contact with the brake disc or rotor when the brakes are applied thus bringing the two wheeler to a stop. They are blocks of rubber like friction material which are attached to metal plates. For better performance of the braking system of two wheelers, brake pads should be checked and replaced at regular intervals.
• The two wheeler sprocket is a wheel with metal teeth upon which the chain rides it is imperative for the smooth mobility of the two wheeler. A two wheeler has two sets of sprockets one in the front and one in the rear. The sprockets should be made of strong metal and should be tough enough to tackle corrosion. Steel is the most preferred metal for manufacturing of these two wheeler sprockets. The sprockets should be changed whenever the chain is replaced, they chain should also be lubricated regularly for better utilization of the sprockets.

The clutch components are also very important for the smooth functioning of two-wheelers, especially for smooth transmission some of the important accessories which are used in the clutch system are as follows

A clutch cover provides the necessary protection for the clutch components by minimalising unnecessary weight. It also provides ventilation to the clutch and also helps the clutch remain cool and clean.

A clutch lever is present on the left handle bar of the two-wheeler, it can be cable operated or hydraulic operated type. It facilitates easy shifting of gears by cutting off the transmission and engine when they are pulled. Steel and Aluminum are most commonly used metals in the clutch lever. These needs to be adjusted when necessary and needs constant lubrication.