Motorcycles pads 'dragging' on rotor, not a problem (well, probably not)

The question of "I hear the pads skimming/dragging on my rotors even when I'm coasting or pushing my bike. What's wrong?!" Keeps appearing in various fora.

Given that everything is working correctly the pads will always be skimming the rotor. There is no mechanical mechanism that pull the pads away in most cases. The pistons do pull in a tiny bit when pressure is removed as the seals, that were deformed when under pressure, return to normal.

Some high end calipers do have magnets in the pistons to try to keep the pads in contact with the pistons. If the pads stay on the pistons, the can benefit a hair from that seal deformation pulling the pistons back into the caliper body.

Do make sure you brakes are well maintained:
- Dirty pistons can stick and cause excessive rubbing and heat
- Likewise dirty guide pins or springs can cause a pad to catch and hang, rubbing too much and possibly overheating the brakes. Hanging pads can also wear unevenly.
- There is a minimum of lever free-play needed - don't mistake it for "slack". There is a required amount of free-play needed for correct operation
- Flush your brakes annually or more often if you ride hard and/or live in a very humid region
- Inspect lines, especially rubber ones regularly. Rubber ones degrade with age and exposure. They will start to crack and bulge (under pressure). This can reduce brake power early on, and eventually lead to leaks or outright failure
- Make sure your front wheel and calipers are installed properly. There really is a right and wrong to these items. Check out Dave Moss for the down and dirty on these items.

Here's a recently published synopsis of brake care that I mention:    • How to Service Your Brakes | Strippin...