Brake pads

Brake pads are friction-lined plates that the caliper pistons press against the brake disc. The pad compound affects stopping power, feel, wear and how quickly the disc wears.

• Organic – soft and quiet with good cold feel, but wear faster.
• Sintered – strong braking, tolerate heat, wet and mud; common on sport and off-road bikes.
• Ceramic / semi-metallic – a middle ground.

Check pad thickness regularly: most pads have a wear groove, and manufacturers typically quote a minimum of 1–2 mm. New pads need bedding in with several moderate stops. Don't fit sintered pads to a disc the manufacturer specifies for organic pads only.