[82flhshovel]

Got some questions about the various types of rotors available.

I've read that iron rotors give the best stopping ability, but they're also most susceptible to rust. So, do these things turn orange after riding through the first puddle, or are we talking a matter of years?

I've also seen ads for zinc-plated rotors, how do they compare with stainless for stopping power and longevity?

Finally, floating rotors- do they live up to the hype or is it just a gimmick?

 

[jockeyshift]

Floating rotors function to provide the rotor stays in the center of the break pads and not off to one side.

 

[adlerx]

Floating = superior on all accounts except perhaps, looks!

 

[82flhshovel]

Anyone care to comment on rotor materials- iron/stainless/zinc plated?

 

[LittleBear]

From the GMA Engineering web site. http://www.gmabrakes.com/technicaltips.htm
"This is the single most misunderstood part that is installed on HD motorcycles. As compared to ductile iron, stainless steel is a poor choice of material. It has a poorer friction surface, does not dissipate heat as well and will ring like a church bell."
Ductile Iron is the best and is what is used on most cars. If you go out and look at the rotor on your car, is there rust on them. If yes this will also happen to the rotors on your bike if you use ductile iron rotors. The rust is wiped away by the pads the first time you apply the brakes.
With that being stated, most after market rotors are stainless and work fine.
Never heard of zink plated, but sounds like it lasts until you use your brakes and is then gone leaving exposed metal to oxidize.
To use floating rotors on the 82, you would have to change the calipers also or at least the mounting since they are currently floating.