How to change the disc brake pads on your bike

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Disc brake pads are a consumable component of your bike, and it goes without saying that it’s important to keep them in good condition.

Thankfully, renewing them is a five-minute job and they’re cheap and light enough that you can, and should, always carry a spare set when out riding as it's not unheard of to wear through a set on a particularly long and muddy ride.

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How to change your disc brake pads

You will need

• Pad pusher tool or ‘fat’/wide flathead screwdriver
• Needle-nose pliers
• Paper cloth
• Disc brake cleaner
• Replacement pads

Inspect for wear

Remove the wheel from the bike and check the brake pads for wear. It’s important to check the pads regularly, because metal-on-metal contact will destroy brake rotors very quickly.

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Be careful not to actuate the brakes at this stage, because squeezing the brake lever after you've removed the disc rotors can compromise the hydraulic system, and force you to bleed the brake unit.

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. If not follow these steps.

Step 1: Remove and clean

Step 2: Replace and adjust

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You can read more at BikeRadar.com

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