How to Change Bike Brake Pads? (Mechanical and Hydraulic Disc Brakes)

Are you planning to take your bike to a shop to get the brake pads replaced? Or are you scouring forums for detailed guides on how to change your eBike brake pads?

Actually, replacing electric bike brake pads is quite simple. Tesway provides you with a detailed tutorial to guide you through the process.

Your Brake System

Generally, there are two types of brake pads: mechanical disc brakes and hydraulic disc brakes.

Mechanical brakes offer good braking performance and are easier to maintain and repair.

However, they may not provide as smooth or powerful braking as hydraulic systems, especially under high-stress conditions or prolonged use.

The modulation, or control over braking power, is generally less precise than hydraulic brakes.

Hydraulic brakes are known for their superior braking performance and smooth modulation.

The hydraulic fluid system allows for more consistent and powerful braking, which is particularly beneficial in demanding riding conditions such as downhill or wet weather.

They provide better control and require less force at the lever to achieve the same stopping power.

Mechanical vs. Hydraulic Disc Brakes

Performance and Modulation:

Mechanical brakes offer good braking performance and are easier to maintain and repair.

However, they may not provide as smooth or powerful braking as hydraulic systems, especially under high-stress conditions or prolonged use.

The modulation, or control over braking power, is generally less precise than hydraulic brakes.

Hydraulic brakes are known for their superior braking performance and smooth modulation.

The hydraulic fluid system allows for more consistent and powerful braking, which is particularly beneficial in demanding riding conditions such as downhill or wet weather.

They provide better control and require less force at the lever to achieve the same stopping power.

Maintenance and Setup:

These brakes are easier to set up and maintain, making them a popular choice for beginners or those who prefer a more straightforward maintenance process.

Adjusting cable tension and replacing brake pads are relatively simple tasks.

While hydraulic brakes offer better performance, they require more intricate maintenance.

Bleeding the brake system to remove air bubbles and ensuring proper fluid levels are tasks that may require more skill and tools.

However, once set up correctly, they typically require less frequent adjustments compared to mechanical systems.

Cost and Weight:

Mechanical disc brakes are more affordable and lighter than their hydraulic counterparts.

This makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious riders or those looking to minimize bike weight.

Hydraulic brakes are often more expensive due to their complex design and superior performance capabilities.

They can also add more weight to the bike, which may be a consideration for competitive cyclists or those concerned with overall bike weight.

Reliability and Durability:

These brakes are less affected by temperature changes and are generally reliable in a wide range of conditions.

However, the cables can stretch over time and may require periodic adjustments to maintain optimal performance.

Hydraulic systems are more sensitive to extreme temperatures and may require more careful handling to prevent leaks or fluid degradation.

Despite this, they are highly durable and provide consistent performance once properly maintained.

Whether you choose mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes, both systems offer significant improvements over traditional rim brakes, providing enhanced stopping power and reliability.

SEE ALSO Bicycle Mechanical vs. Hydraulic Disc Brakes: What's the Difference?

Tools and Materials Needed

To replace your brake pads, you'll need the following tools and materials:

• New brake pads (ensure they are compatible with your specific brake system)
• Allen wrenches (commonly 4mm and 5mm)
• Flathead screwdriver
  
• Needle-nose pliers
  
• Rubbing alcohol or brake cleaner
  
• Clean cloth
  
• Gloves (optional, but recommended for cleanliness)
• Hydraulic brake fluid (if you need to bleed the brakes)
• Pad spacer (to keep the pistons apart when pads are removed)
• Brake pad spreader tool (optional but useful for hydraulic brakes)

Step-by-Step Guide for Changing Brake Pads

1. Preparing Your Bike

Secure Your Bike: Place your bike on a stable stand or flip it upside down, ensuring it is secure and won't tip over during the process. This provides easy access to the brake system.

Remove the Wheel: For better access to the brake caliper, remove the wheel corresponding to the brake pads you are replacing. Loosen the quick-release lever or axle nuts to take the wheel off.

2. Removing Old Brake Pads

Mechanical Disc Brakes

Locate the Retaining Pin: Identify the retaining pin or bolt holding the brake pads in place, typically found at the top of the caliper.

Remove the Pin/Bolt: Use an appropriate Allen wrench to remove the pin or bolt. Keep these components safe as you'll need them later.

Extract the Brake Pads: Gently push the brake pads out of the caliper using a flathead screwdriver or needle-nose pliers. Be cautious not to damage the caliper or rotor.

If the pads are stuck, you may need to use a bit more force or wiggle them back and forth gently to loosen them. Take care not to bend or damage the caliper springs.

Hydraulic Disc Brakes

Remove the Retaining Clip: Some hydraulic systems have a retaining clip that needs to be removed first. Use needle-nose pliers to carefully extract this clip.

Unscrew the Retaining Bolt: Use an Allen wrench to unscrew the retaining bolt.

Remove the Brake Pads: Similar to mechanical brakes, gently push out the brake pads using a flathead screwdriver or pliers. If your system has a pad spacer, you might need to remove it first.

If your hydraulic brakes have a pad spreader installed, you may need to use it to push the pistons back into the caliper before removing the pads.

3. Inspecting and Cleaning

Inspect the Caliper and Rotor: Check the caliper and rotor for any signs of wear or damage. Replace if necessary. Look for grooves or scoring on the rotor, which can indicate excessive wear.

Clean the Caliper and Rotor: Use rubbing alcohol or brake cleaner and a clean cloth to thoroughly clean the caliper and rotor. This ensures that any dirt or grease is removed, providing a clean surface for the new pads. Avoid touching the rotor with your bare hands to prevent contaminating it with oils.

Make sure to clean the inside of the caliper where the pads sit. Any debris left here can cause uneven wear or reduce braking efficiency.

4. Installing New Brake Pads

Mechanical Disc Brakes

Insert New Pads: Place the new brake pads into the caliper. Ensure they are correctly aligned and sit snugly in place. The pads should fit smoothly and not require excessive force.

Reinsert the Retaining Pin/Bolt: Secure the new pads by reinserting and tightening the retaining pin or bolt. Double-check that it is properly tightened to prevent the pads from coming loose.

Some brake pads have a directional arrow or specific orientation. Make sure to install them according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Hydraulic Disc Brakes

Position New Pads: Carefully insert the new brake pads into the caliper, ensuring proper alignment. The pads should slide in smoothly without force.

Secure with Retaining Bolt and Clip: Tighten the retaining bolt and replace the retaining clip (if applicable). Ensure that the clip is fully seated to avoid it coming loose during rides.

Before inserting the new pads, use the pad spreader tool to push the pistons back into the caliper fully. This will make inserting the new pads easier and ensure they fit properly.

5. Reassembling Your Bike

Reinstall the Wheel: Place the wheel back onto the bike, ensuring it is properly aligned with the frame and brake caliper. Make sure the rotor is seated correctly between the pads.

Check Brake Alignment: Ensure that the rotor is centered between the brake pads. Adjust the caliper position if necessary to prevent rubbing. Spin the wheel to check for any rubbing and make minor adjustments if needed.

For hydraulic brakes, squeeze the brake lever a few times to reset the pads against the rotor. This will help align the caliper automatically.

6. Testing and Adjustments

Test the Brakes: Before riding, test the brakes by squeezing the brake lever several times. Ensure that the pads contact the rotor smoothly and provide adequate stopping power. The lever should feel firm and responsive.

Adjust Cable Tension (Mechanical Brakes): If the brake lever feels too loose or tight, adjust the cable tension using the barrel adjuster on the brake lever. Turn it clockwise to tighten and counterclockwise to loosen.

Bleed the Brakes (Hydraulic Brakes): If the brake lever feels spongy or unresponsive, consider bleeding the brakes to remove any air bubbles from the hydraulic system. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for bleeding the brakes properly.

After installing new pads, it's important to "bed in" the brakes. This involves riding at a moderate speed and applying the brakes gently several times to allow the pads and rotor to create an even, smooth braking surface.

Maintenance Tips

Regular Inspection

Periodically check the condition of your brake pads and replace them when they show signs of wear. Thin pads, less than 1-2mm, should be replaced.

Clean Rotors

Keep your brake rotors clean and free of contaminants to ensure optimal braking performance. Regularly use rubbing alcohol or brake cleaner to clean the rotors.

Brake Fluid Levels (Hydraulic Brakes)

Regularly check and maintain the brake fluid levels in your hydraulic brake system. Low fluid can lead to poor braking performance.

Cable Maintenance (Mechanical Brakes)

Ensure that your brake cables are free of fraying and are properly lubricated to maintain smooth operation.

Rotor Inspection

Check your rotors for signs of warping or excessive wear. Rotors that are out of true can cause poor braking performance and noise.

Check for Leaks (Hydraulic Brakes)

Regularly inspect your hydraulic brake system for any signs of fluid leaks around the calipers, hoses, or master cylinders.

Ensure that the caliper mounting bolts are securely tightened and that the brake pads are evenly worn. Uneven wear can indicate misalignment or other issues that need to be addressed.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance and timely replacement of brake pads will keep your bike performing at its best, providing you with a safe and enjoyable riding experience.

FAQs

What are sintered vs. organic brake pads, and which should I choose?

Sintered brake pads are made from metallic particles and are durable, making them suitable for wet and muddy conditions.

Organic brake pads, made from fibers and resins, provide quieter and smoother braking but wear out faster. Choose based on your riding conditions and preferences.

Can I replace brake pads myself, or should I seek professional help?

While replacing brake pads is a task that many cyclists can perform with basic tools and knowledge, if you're unsure or uncomfortable, it's always best to seek help from a professional bike mechanic to ensure the job is done correctly.

How can I improve the lifespan of my brake pads?

To extend the lifespan of your brake pads, avoid aggressive braking whenever possible, clean your rotors regularly, and ensure your brake system is properly maintained and adjusted.