Bought new Honda Interstate rear brake pads, got STD/Tourer.....

[lacon]

Honda blister packed & numbered for the interstate - from my local dealer. 
I wonder if this was just a fluke, or has Honda just started packing the same pads in both blister packs & still charging two different prices?  (STD/Tourer cost $12 more than the Interstate because of the two white spacers needed for the STD/Tourer)  I'm guessing a thinner rotor maybe?
I have a STD & this is my 2nd change.  First time I also bought the Interstate pads & just re-installed the original spacers.  This time, if I had actually wanted to install them on an Interstate, I would have had to remove & toss the spacers which were included with them.   No instructions either, so an unknowing Interstate owner probably would be wondering what's the deal with the spacers.
No problem, just wondering.  Anybody else bought Honda rear Interstate pads lately?

[Mr.BubblesVRCCDS0008]

I just installed a set today on my I/S. I noticed the white spacers on the new pads. I chose to install the pads and spacers on the bike just as they came to me. I haven't ridden but 25 miles since but I can't tell any difference.

[VMODON]

I just put new pads on I/S, had the white spacer, installed and were tight!!!. Had to have BigBF take alook, they had almost no stopping power. Took atrip 1800 miles, guess they are "seated" in now, as stopping is somewhat better. So is the spacer supposed to be used with the I/S ??? Thanks Don...

[Steve K (IA)]

VMODON, If your brakes only seem to be "somewhat better" I would check the pin bolt and make sure it is not seized up.  This pin bolt allows the rear caliper to float.  I was having rear brake problems.  Found one pad was wearing and the other was not.  The caliper couldn't move and the pistons was pushing just one side.  Discovered that pin was stuck, cleaned it up and then put in some new pads and it brakes real good now.
If you check this link, it is #11  You'll know what to look for.

http://www.hdlparts.com/fiche_section_detail.asp?section=148611&category=Motorcycles&make=Honda&year=2000&fveh=3474

[John U.]

There is another more serious problem that can happen with that pin bolt. It's steel and screws into the aluminum caliper. If it gets cross threaded the caliper will be mis-aligned with the rotor. This will result in very poor braking force. If the caliper wiggles from side to side as the brake pedal is depressed, that may be your problem. If so you'll need a tap to chase the threads.