Rear brake squeal

[BobfromSWOhio]

I have just added 1000 mi. to my "new" 12000 mile, 1999 K1200 and have noticed some rear brake squeal. The pads look "good" but there is minor scouring on the rotors (visual but passes the finger nail test).

I have checked ot the Hall of Wisdom in the tech section and realize this is not an uncommon problem. Before I modify a Ducati brake pad, has there been any advances in this area since this tech article was written (mid-2002)? I need to be doing something ASAP as I would rather not have to replace the rotor along w/the pads. With some good weather finally gracing us here in SW Ohio, I would hate to resort to going back to my Harley custom to satisfy my riding addiction.

Now, a real dumb question: I believe the maintenace manual refers to the covered connection on the lower, left fairing as a 12-V source. I thought it was the intercom connection. Also, if this is a 12-V source, where is the best place to purchase an adaptor to make it fit our U.S cigarette-lighter style connections?

Again, thanks in advance.

Bob

[Ranger]

Bob,

The outlet on the lower left is in fact power. The intercom connection, if you have one, is on the dash on the top left. You may find other sources but the link below will show you an adapter that will work for converting from the BMW plug to a standard one.

http://www.ascycles.com/detail.aspx?ID=1264

There is another similar plug adapter that allows you to connect your battery charger to the bike through this same connector. I like the convenience of doing that, you might find it convenient too.

[BecketMa]

Recently, my rear brakes started squealing. At first, I hopped it might just be a stone.

When the squeal didn't go away, and it sounded like metal on metal, I ordered the most suggested rear brake replacement pads.

When I pulled the old pads out, I discovered they had a lot of life left.

I installed the new pads any way. No need to modify them.

End of squealing problem.

Bob