SERVICE TIP – BREAKING IN SEMI-METALLIC BRAKE PADS CORRECTLY

Semi-metallic disc brake pads are harder than organic disc brake pads due to their higher metal content and therefore require a longer break-in period than organic brake pads. The increased metal content makes these pads more resistant to fading, but care must be taken during the break-in phase to ensure that the pads do not become too hot and glaze over.

Under the microscope, the pad surface resembles an uneven mountain range. When the pad is pressed onto the brake disc, only a few peaks are in contact. These peaks are also called hotspots because they are heated the most during braking due to concentrated friction. During longer braking maneuvers, these peaks become so hot that they could cause the pad material to vitrify. The heat could also be transferred to surrounding areas, which could also damage them. In the worst case, the brake pad could become unusable before it has been fully bedded in.

The following instructions will help you to bed in your semi-metallic brake pads properly and safely.

STEP 1: SMOOTH OUT HOTSPOTS

At approx. 15-20 km/h, apply minimal pressure to the brake lever for approx. 5 seconds, allowing the brakes to grind slightly. Repeat this process at least 5 times. Allow the pads to cool briefly in between. This will pre-smooth the few protruding tips without overheating them.

STEP 2: SMOOTH THE SURFACE

Then brake moderately 30 times from approx. 25 km/h to approx. 5 km/h. Allow the pads to cool down between braking maneuvers. This smooths the pad surface in a controlled manner to create sufficient contact between the pad and the brake disc.

The brake pads are properly bedded in after this process. Experience has shown that it can take some time for the brake pads to develop their full braking performance. 

TIP

We recommend bedding in the rear and front brake pads one after the other to get a better feel for the braking behavior and the bedding-in progress for each brake.