# Installing the Front Disc Brake — Step-by-Step

> Caliper centering is the step that stops the brake dragging — and the one most often rushed.
>
> **Applies to:** D-series

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<iframe width="720" height="405"
        src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K8ZhlgfK0hE?rel=0"
        title="How to Install the Front Disc Brake on a CEMOTO Electric Dirt Bike | Step-by-Step Guide"
        frameborder="0"
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<sub>*How to Install the Front Disc Brake on a CEMOTO Electric Dirt Bike | Step-by-Step Guide* — if the player does not load, [open the video on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K8ZhlgfK0hE).</sub>

</div>

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## What you need

| Tool | Notes |
| --- | --- |
| Hex keys | Caliper and lever mounting bolts |
| Torque wrench | Caliper bolts are safety-critical — see [Torque Reference](https://help.cemotoride.com/link/325) |
| Clean rag and isopropyl alcohol | Never let brake fluid or oil touch the disc or pads |

> ⚠ **Never squeeze the brake lever with the caliper removed and the disc out.** It pushes the pistons out and you will have to reset them.

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## Steps

1. **Fit the disc to the wheel** if it is not already mounted, and check it runs true.
2. **Mount the caliper** with its bolts **just snug** — loose enough that the caliper can still slide side to side.
3. **Squeeze and hold the brake lever.** This lets the caliper self-center on the disc.
4. **With the lever still held, tighten the caliper bolts** to specification. This is the step that prevents a dragging brake.
5. **Release the lever and spin the wheel.** The disc should run through the caliper with only a light, even contact — and no scraping in one spot.
6. **Fit the lever** and set its reach and angle so it is comfortable and fully returns.
7. **Check the brake cut-off:** with the bike powered, squeeze the lever and confirm the motor stops. If not, see [E02](https://help.cemotoride.com/link/358).
8. **Bed the pads in** with a few gentle stops from moderate speed before hard use.

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## Watch out for

- **Tightening the caliper before centering it** — the single cause of a brake that drags.
- **Getting oil on the disc or pads.** Contamination is permanent — pads must be replaced, not cleaned.
- **A lever that does not return fully.** It holds the brake on and triggers E02. Check the pivot and clearance.
- **Not testing the cut-off.** The interlock is a safety feature, not a formality.

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## Related

- [Brakes — symptom diagnostics](https://help.cemotoride.com/link/328)
- [Brake Error E02](https://help.cemotoride.com/link/358)
- [Torque Reference](https://help.cemotoride.com/link/325)
- [Tutorials Index](https://help.cemotoride.com/link/393)