DISC BRAKES BRAKING IN
HOW DO YOU DO THAT AND WHY?
You just bought a new bike with disc brakes and can't wait to get out and ride. Everything's fine-tuned and it's ready to go. Or maybe you've just replaced your brake pads and are eager to get back on the bike. Don't forget to bed in your disc brakes properly first! We'll explain why bed-in is so important and how to do it properly.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DISC AND RIM BRAKES
The ability to brake safely and effectively is an important aspect of cycling. Bicycles can be equipped with various types of brake systems, the most common of which are disc brakes and rim brakes.
A rim brake, as the name suggests, uses the rim to slow down. A bicycle with disc brakes uses a disc around the wheel's axle to reduce speed. The advantages of disc brakes lie primarily in their reliability. They require little force to brake, there's no risk of rim dents, and they're easy to maintain. Rim brakes, on the other hand, are easier to replace, but are less reliable in wet weather, for example.
IMPORTANCE OF DISC BRAKE BRAKING
The difference between the two brakes lies not only in the placement of the brake system, but also in the material. Rim brakes are generally made of rubber, while disc brake pads are made of resin with metal and plastic bits mixed in. Because of this resin, it's important to properly bed in your disc brakes, while this isn't necessary with rubber brake pads.
During the braking process, the resin melts, leaving a thin layer on the brake discs. This layer improves brake function and extends the life of your brakes. It also ensures that the brake pads and discs fit together more effectively and make good contact, making the brakes even more effective.
HOW DO YOU PROPERLY BRAKING IN YOUR NEW DISC BRAKES?
When breaking in your new disc brakes, it's important to let them warm up properly so the resin can melt. You can easily do this by accelerating to about 30 km/h (19 mph) and then braking firmly until you're at a walking pace. Repeat this 20 times. This gives the brake pads and discs a good chance to conform to each other and provide optimal braking. Another advantage: this prevents squeaky brakes later on!
MAINTAINING DISC BRAKES
For optimal brake performance, it's also important to properly maintain your disc brakes. For example, the brake pads should be replaced when they're only 0.5mm thick. The brakes should also be bled regularly to maintain optimal brake pressure. And if you've just installed new pads or brake rotors, don't forget to degrease them before riding.
Also pay attention to the following for the best functioning of your brakes:
- Do not touch the braking surface of the disc
- Keep your disc and pads free of oil and grease
- Do not squeeze your brake lever once you have removed the wheel
- Use the correct brake fluid
Have you checked your disc brakes yet and are the pads due for replacement? Check out our Disc brake pads , so you can get back on your bike safely! Don't forget to bed them in!