The Importance of Bedding-in Your Bicycle’s Disc Brakes

When it comes to maintaining the performance and safety of your bicycle, one critical aspect often overlooked is the proper bedding-in of hydraulic disc brakes. Bedding-in your brakes is the process of conditioning the braking system to optimize its efficiency, responsiveness, and overall stopping power, and is an important process to follow anytime you’re replacing your brake pads or getting started on a brand new bike. In this blog post, we will delve into why it is essential to bed-in your bicycle’s disc brakes and how this simple procedure can greatly enhance your cycling experience.

Improved Braking Performance:

• Bedding-in your disc brakes allows the brake pads and rotors to establish an optimal level of friction. During the bedding-in process, the brake pads are heated and gently worn into the rotor's surface. This transfers a thin layer of brake pad material onto the rotor, creating a more consistent and effective braking surface. As a result, the brakes will deliver better stopping power, increased modulation, and reduced noise.

Enhanced Safety:

• Safety is paramount when cycling, particularly when it comes to braking. Properly bedded-in hydraulic disc brakes ensure reliable and predictable braking performance in all weather conditions. By achieving consistent and efficient braking power, you can react swiftly to sudden obstacles, navigate tricky descents, and confidently maneuver in traffic. Effective braking is essential for avoiding accidents and maintaining control over your bike, making the bedding-in process crucial for your safety on the road or trail.

Prolonged Brake Pad and Rotor Life:

• Bedding-in your brakes helps to extend the lifespan of your brake pads and rotors. The initial conditioning process removes any glaze or contaminants from the pads and rotors, creating a better mating surface. This reduces the risk of uneven pad wear, glazing, and rotor damage. When the pads and rotors are properly bedded-in, they work harmoniously, resulting in more even wear patterns and longer-lasting components. This not only saves you money in the long run but also minimizes the need for frequent brake replacements.

Elimination of Brake Noise:

• Squealing or squeaking brakes can be annoying and embarrassing, especially when riding in a group or passing pedestrians. Proper bedding-in significantly reduces the likelihood of brake noise. By establishing an even layer of brake pad material on the rotor, you can minimize vibration and eliminate the high-pitched sounds often associated with improperly bedded brakes. A noise-free braking system not only provides a more pleasant riding experience but also contributes to a positive image of cycling.

How to Bed-in Your Brakes:

5. Whether you have a new bike or just replaced your rotors and brake pads, the following process needs to be done before you ride:

1) Select a riding area which allows for moderate speed; for safety, remain seated.

2) Accelerate to a moderate speed and apply brakes evenly, slowing to a walking pace. It is important to prevent a complete stop. Do this 20 times–braking power will increase during the process.

3) Accelerate to a slightly higher speed and apply the brakes, slowing to a walking pace. Do this 10 times, and remember not to come to a complete stop. 

4) Allow the brakes to fully cool before riding. 

Have questions? Curious how much life is left on your brakes? Come on in to any of our four locations in Highlands Ranch, Parker, East Denver or Downtown Denver and our folks will be happy to review your brakes for you!

Join us every Tuesday at 5 pm - 6 pm for our free Tech Tuesday Clinics at all locations.

We also host weekly group rides at all four locations, come join the fun!