MTB brake pads

How to choose mountain bike brake pads

Brake pads wear faster the longer the descents and the heavier the bike: an e-MTB uses noticeably more. Shimano, SRAM, Magura, Galfer, Hope and Clarks cover almost all calipers.

Which brake pad for my calipers?

• Note the brand and exact model of the caliper (Shimano Deore M6100, SRAM Code, Magura MT7…), often engraved on them.
• With Shimano, the families B01S, G-type and N-type cover the core of the mountain bike range.
• Third-party manufacturers publish equivalency charts: always check the reference, not just the brand.
• Always replace both pads in the same caliper at the same time.

Organic, semi-metallic or metallic?

• Organic (resin) : immediate bite and quiet operation, ideal for cross-country riding on dry ground; wears quickly and is sensitive to heat.
• Metallic (sintered) : endurance and consistent performance on long descents and in mud, the choice for enduro and downhill riding.
• Semi-metallic : the compromise for varied use.
• E-bike versions : reinforced compound, designed for the weight and temperatures of an e-MTB.

Does my rotor accept metallic brake pads?

Not always. Some rotors bear the marking Resin Pad Only : they must only be fitted with organic brake pads, otherwise they will wear faster and lose power. The marking is on the rotor itself.

Do new brake pads need bedding in?

Yes. Bedding in transfers pad material evenly onto the rotor track: this delivers maximum power and eliminates noise. Allow around twenty progressive braking applications, without ever locking the wheel, before your first proper descent.

To find out more: How to choose mountain bike brake pads

See also: Mountain bike brake rotors · E-bike brake pads · Complete MTB brakes