So you have replaced your disc pads, got some new brakes and rotors, or even a new bike, do you throw your leg over and go for it? or do you “bed in” your brakes?
Bedding in brakes is the process of priming the pads and rotors without glazing to allow for maximum braking performance for the life of the pads.
If you have ridden new pads and pulled the brake and been disappointed with the performance of the brake, chances are it hadn’t been bedded in. Overtime an “unbedded” pad will improve slightly but this is will be down to luck based on the conditions and nature of your first ride on them.
Not sure how to bed in your new pads? Below you will find guidelines from all big brake manufactures, if you have Magura brakes you better have had your weetabix!
- Select a riding area that allows for moderate speed. To safely achieve optimal results, remain seated on the bike during the entire bed-in procedure.
- Accelerate the bike to a moderate speed, then firmly apply the brakes until you are at walking speed. Repeat approximately twenty times.
- Accelerate the bike to a faster speed. Then very firmly apply the brakes until you are at walking speed. Repeat approximately ten times. Important: Do not lock up the wheels at any point during the bed-in procedure.
- Allow the brakes to cool prior to any additional riding.
To bed the pads in – simply ride the bike, very gently scuffing the pads on the rotor with a little pressure on the lever. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO STOP IMMEDIATELY! allow the pad to have a minute or two simply rubbing the rotor gently. Increase the resistance and also begin to pulse the lever, making the brake work a little harder. You should start to feel the power of the brake increasing as you are doing this. Continue this process for as long as you feel it takes until the brake begins to work to its full potential. The brake WILL get better once it used off road and has some dirt and higher temperatures on it.
New brakes pads develop their final braking force during the bedding-in phase.
Accelerate on the flat to about 30km/h (20mph)
Use one brake to come to a stop
Repeat Procedure at lease 30 times for each brake.
Burn-in period, disc brakes have a burn-in period, and the braking force will gradually increase as the burn-in period progresses. Make sure that you are aware of any such increases in braking force when using the brakes during the burn-in period. The same thing will happen when the brake pads or disc brake rotor are replaced.
