When To Change Mountain Bike Brake Pads

Brake pads are a key component of the braking system on a mountain bike and should be replaced regularly.

The lifespan of brake pads depends on the type of riding you do, how often you ride, and how well you maintain your bike.

The lifespan of brake pads can range from one to three months, depending on the type of riding and the frequency of use.

Brake pads will wear out faster if they are used in wet conditions or if they are not maintained properly.

When should you replace mountain bike brake pads?

You should replace your pads when there’s 1.5mm or less of braking material remaining. If the pads are okay, replace the wheel and keep riding.^[1]

How long do mountain bike brake pads last?

Your mileage will vary based on weather, braking habits, pad type, riding style and terrain. But you should normally get 500-700miles from a resin pad, and 1000-1250 miles from a sintered metal pad.^[2]

How do I know if my bike brake pads are worn?

You Hear: A gritty, scraping sound. The metal of the brake shoe is hitting the rim. You See: The grooves in the pad have all but disappeared. You Feel: A stickiness when you brake. Your pad is worn unevenly and may be catching under the rim.^[3]

How do I know when my brake pads need changing?

Squeaking or Squealing Noise Coming From Brakes. The first sign that it’s time to replace your brake pads is if you hear persistent squeaking or squealing. Indicator Light Turns On. Deep Grinding Metal Sound. Vibrating Brake Pedal. Brake Pads Appear Less Than A ¼ Inch Thick.^[4]

At what mm should brake pads be replaced?

When Should I Change My Brake Pads? Any mechanic will tell you that it’s time to change your brake pads when the lining is in the 3 mm to 4 mm range. For context, know that the standard thickness of new brake linings is 12 mm. The first half of your brake pad’s lifespan is usually carefree.^[5]

Is 4mm brake pads OK?

Typically, 4mm of brake pad is recommended, so if you think they’re thinner than that, it’s time to get them checked and possibly replaced. This is the easiest way to keep on top of your brake pad condition and requires no tools or training to carry out.^[6]

How often do bike disc brakes need replacing?

So how long do bicycle brake pads really last? So, How Long Do Bicycle Brake Pads Last? Typically, brake pads last anywhere from 500-1000 miles. However, this depends on a variety of factors such as the braking system used and the conditions of the ride itself as in riding in wet or dry conditions.^[7]

Do bike brake pads get old?

All brake pads are regarded as a ‘consumable component’, meaning they will wear over time and require replacement. Old or over-worn brake pads will not work properly, so compromising safety, or may even cause damage to your bike, so it’s worthwhile to be aware of your brake pads and to check them regularly for wear.^[8]

Do bike disc brakes wear out?

Just like with rim brakes, the pads will eventually wear down with continual use. Again, just like with rims, this is far more likely to happen in winter when there’s grit and gunk all over the road. The first thing to know about disc brake pads is when to swap them out.^[9]

When should I replace my MTB disc brakes and rotors?

Braking erodes material off the rotor depending on the riding conditions, rotors will typically last through two or more sets of brake pads. When a SHIMANO rotor measures 1.5mm thick or less, it’s time to replace it. A new rotor should always be accompanied by new brake pads.^[10]

How long do brake pads last for?

Brake pads generally last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles, but some can last as long as 100,000 miles. There are many factors that account for this wide range. First, brake pads come in a variety of types and compositions and are attached to even more varying brake systems and rotors.^[11]

Is 5 mm on brake pads OK?

Ideally, your brake pads should be thicker than 6.4 mm (¼ inches) for proper functioning. If it’s thinner than this, consider getting a replacement soon. Most car mechanics also agree that the bare minimum brake pad thickness is 3.2 mm (⅛ inches).^[12]