Motorcycle Glossary
Brake caliper
In Turkish: Kaliper
In short
A brake caliper uses hydraulic pressure to move its pistons and press the brake pads onto the disc.
There are two main designs: a floating (sliding) caliper has piston(s) on one side and the body slides on pins; a fixed (opposed-piston) caliper has pistons on both sides of the disc (2, 4 or 6 pistons). Radially mounted calipers are common on sports bikes.
Maintenance and symptoms
- Uneven or tapered pad wear – a sticking piston or slide pin
- Dragging after releasing the brake, an overheating disc
- Fluid leaks – renew the piston seals (caliper rebuild kit)
After removing or refitting a caliper, bleed the system and check the brake fluid.
Also known as (including Turkish names)
- Fren kaliperi
- Fren çenesi
- Caliper
Related products
Master Cylinders & Calipers
Last updated: October 9, 2026
