Brake Pad and Rotor Maintenance

When Should I Replace the Brake Pads?

The only way to determine whether a Brake Pad needs replacement is by looking at its thickness. Most Brake Pads start at between 3 and 4mm thick. Once a Brake Pad is worn down to only 1mm or less in thickness, it is time for a replacement. If a Brake Pad is noisy but still fairly thick, it most likely only needs to be cleaned.

How Do I Clean the Brake Pads?

To clean the Brake Pads, sand them lightly with a fine-grit sandpaper. Afterwards, wipe them down with rubbing alcohol and a clean cloth. Repeat this process as necessary to remove all debris and contaminants from the Brake Pads.

For more detailed instructions, please refer to this article: Cleaning Contaminated Brakes and Rotors

How Do I Replace the Brake Pads?

Please refer to this instructional video for replacing Brake Pads created by Park Tools, a leading manufacturer of bike tools: How to Replace Bicycle Disc Brake Pads. 

When Should I Replace the Brake Rotor?

The Brake Disc generally lasts for a long time - even longer than your bike in most cases. However, they do need to be replaced if they:

• Have become warped.
• Show signs of metal fatigue or heat damage, as indicated by dark-blue discolourations on the disc. 
• Are less than 1.5mm thick.

How Do I Replace the Brake Rotor?

Please refer to this instructional video for replacing Brake Rotors created by Park Tools, a leading manufacturer of bike tools: How to Replace Bicycle Brake Rotors.