2021 Harley Sportster 48 Rear brake pad replacement question

[edharley48]

Hello everyone. I ride 2021 sportster 48 (with ABS). I got myself some EBC double-H brake pads (front and rear) for better braking performance. Looks like front brake pads installation is quite straightforward. However, I have a question about installing rear brake pads.

On older models of sportster, I have seen videos on youtube that demonstrates replacement of rear brake pads without removing the rear callipers. However, in the service manual, it states to remove the rear caliper. My question is, can I replace the rear brake pads without removing the rear caliper? My guess is yes. I just wanted to make sure before going ahead. Thanks!

[Throckmorton]

i have a 2013 48. i've done front and back without removing caliper. not sure about new bikes. you might just attempt it with caliper on … you’re not going to break anything. of course, with it off you can clean it better.

[edharley48]

Originally Posted by Throckmorton

i have a 2013 48. i've done front and back without removing caliper. not sure about new bikes. you might just attempt it with caliper on … you’re not going to break anything. of course, with it off you can clean it better.

Thanks for the reply. I came across this youtube video for 2015 XL1200 sportster brake pad tutorial https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=0WXvcvPk6w8
Quite a useful tutorial. The brake caliper in that video and my 2021 48 looks the same. I can confirm that I did not need to remove the caliper to change the pads. I got myself some tube brushes and cleaned with brake cleaner. Not too difficult!