When your brake pads need to be replaced, it’s important to do it as soon as possible so you can avoid any longer-term damage.
There are a few different methods for replacing brake pads on an MTB; the most common is using tools that come with the bike or purchasing specialized replacements. Make sure you have all of the necessary materials.
Brake pads are one of the most important parts of your mountain bike. If they fail, you could end up crashing or losing valuable time while descending a hill.
Brake pads come in different types and sizes, so it can be difficult to find the right replacement. In this guide, we will show you how to replace brake pads MTB systems.
How To Replace Brake Pads MTB
Brake pads are essential for stopping your bike in a hurry. Over time, they can wear down and become less effective at slowing you down.
If this happens, it’s important to replace the brake pads as soon as possible to avoid an accident.
Use a Caliper for Accurate Measurements
When measuring brake pads, it’s important to use a caliper in order to get accurate measurements. A caliper is an accurate device that measures the thickness of metal surfaces.
This will ensure that you’re replacing the correct amount of brake pads and won’t end up with too much or too little pad material on your rotor.
Remove the Wheel
To replace brake pads, you first need to remove the wheel from your vehicle.
To do so, remove any bolts or screws that are holding it in place and then gently pull it off of the axle assembly.
Be sure to clean all debris off of the rotors before reinstalling them.
Inspect for Wear
Once you’ve removed the wheel, take a look at both sides of each rotor for signs of wear or damage (this includes cracks and uneven surface areas).
If there is any significant wear present, it may be necessary to replace both sets of brakes altogether.
Remove Used Pads
Next, use a pair of pliers to carefully lift out each old pad from its slot on either side of the rotor.
Make sure not to bend or damage any wires connected inside the braking system – they can cause serious problems down the road.
Remove the Pad Retention Screw or Bolt
To remove the brake pads, you’ll first need to remove the pad retention screw or bolt.
This is usually located on either side of the caliper near where it attaches to the wheel. Once you’ve removed this screw or bolt, you can then clean and inspect the brakes.
Clean and Inspect the Brake
Once you’ve removed the brake pads, it’s important to clean them up as best as possible before replacing them.
Make sure that all of the debris has been cleaned off of them before installing new pads so that your vehicle will run smoother once they’re installed.
Additionally, make sure that all of the grooves in your rotor are clear so that heat can reach each pad properly during braking.
Replace The Pads
After cleaning and inspecting your brakes, it’s time to replace your old pads with fresh ones- typically using a standard wrench and socket set.
Be careful not to over-tighten the screws or bolts while you’re replacing them; just tighten until they feel snug but don’t overdo it.
And finally, be sure to reattach the wheel and bed into before returning the vehicle to the road.
Re-install Wheel and Bed in Rotors
When replacing brake pads, it’s always a good idea to rotate your wheels and sleep in the rotors for optimal stopping power – especially if you haven’t done this in a while.
When To Replace Brake Pads MTB
If you’re noticing that your brakes feel spongy or don’t seem to be stopping as well as they used to, it’s time to replace your pads.
Over time, the friction caused by braking will wear down the pad material until it becomes ineffective. Replacing them every few years is a good idea for optimal brake performance.
Noise From Brake Pads
If you’re hearing a loud noise when you brake, it’s likely that your pads are worn out and need to be replaced.
This type of noise is usually caused by friction between the pad and the rotor, which can lead to the metal on metal wear.
Slippery Conditions
Worn or slippery pads will cause more difficulty in braking in wet or icy conditions, as well as on surfaces with lots of dust or debris.
If your brakes are not working properly in these kinds of conditions, it may be time for new pads.
Poor Performance in The Rain
Water-soaked brake pads will struggle to stop the bike quickly enough, leading to poor performance both on dry roads and during heavy rain showers.
When this happens, it’s often best to replace all of your brake pads at once rather than trying to address the issue one at a time – this is especially true if you have disc brakes installed on your bike.
FAQs
How Often Should You Replace MTB Brake Pads?
The lifespan of a brake pad is typically around 1,000 miles.
Do You Need to Bleed Brakes When Changing Pads MTB?
The answer is no. Unless you are riding a downhill or enduro race, you don’t need to bleed your brakes.
It’s important to note that if you are riding a downhill or enduro race, then it is recommended that you bleed your brakes every time you replace the pads.
Can You Change Bike Brake Pads Yourself?
Yes, you can! In fact, changing your own bike brake pads is one of the easiest things that you can do on your bicycle.
Is It Hard to Change Brake Pads?
Changing your brake pads is not difficult but it does require some knowledge of how brakes work and some tools that you may already have at home. Some company’s brake pad has some asbestos, so be careful working with them.
To Recap
Brake pads are an important part of a bike’s braking system, and they need to be replaced periodically depending on the type of riding you do.
If your brake pads seem worn out or damaged, it is time to replace them. If you are experiencing problems with your brakes, it is important to replace the pads as soon as possible.
Brake pads can wear out over time, which will cause a decrease in braking power and may even lead to an accident.
By replacing the brake pads, yourself, you will be able to keep your vehicle safe and functioning properly.