Bicycles are a popular and eco-friendly mode of transportation that offer many benefits such as improved fitness and reduced carbon footprint. However, just like any other vehicle, bikes require regular maintenance to ensure their safe and efficient operation. One of the essential maintenance tasks for a bicycle is replacing worn-out brake pads.
Brake pads are responsible for stopping the bike when the rider applies the brake, and worn-out pads can compromise the rider’s safety. In this guide, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to replace the brake pads on a bicycle, so you can keep your bike in top condition and ride with confidence.
What You Will Need
To replace worn-out brake pads on a bicycle, you will need the following tools and materials:
New brake pads
Make sure you purchase the correct size and type of worn-out brake pads for your bike’s brakes.
Allen wrench set
Most brake pads are attached to the brake caliper with Allen bolts, so you will need a set of Allen wrenches to remove and install the brake pads.
Flathead screwdriver
You may need a flathead screwdriver to pry the old worn-out brake pads out of the caliper.
Rubbing alcohol or brake cleaner
Use rubbing alcohol or brake cleaner to clean the brake caliper and rotor before installing the new brake pads.
Rag or paper towels
Use a rag or paper towels to clean the brake caliper and rotor and to remove any excess grease or dirt.
Pliers
You may need pliers to remove the retaining clip that holds the worn-out brake pads in place.
Once you have gathered these tools and materials, you are ready to start replacing your worn-out brake pads.
Step One: Remove the Wheel
Removing the wheel is not always necessary to replace the brake pads, but in some cases, it may provide more room and make the process easier. Here are the steps to remove the wheel:
Shift the chain to the smallest cog
Shift the chain to the smallest cog on the rear wheel. This will make it easier to remove the wheel.
Open the brake quick-release or loosen the brake cable
Open the brake quick-release lever or loosen the brake cable from the brake caliper. This will release the tension on the brake pads and allow you to remove the wheel.
Remove the wheel
Use the appropriate size wrench to loosen the wheel nuts or quick-release skewer. Once the nuts or skewer are loose, lift the bike frame slightly and pull the wheel out of the dropouts.
Remove the old brake pads
Follow steps 3-10 in the previous answer to remove the old brake pads and install the new ones.
Reinstall the wheel
Slide the wheel back into the dropouts and make sure it’s properly seated. Tighten the wheel nuts or quick-release skewer and check that the wheel spins freely without rubbing against the brake pads.
Reattach the brake
Close the brake quick-release lever or reattach the brake cable to the brake caliper, making sure there is enough tension on the cable.
Test the brakes and wheel
Take the bike for a test ride and test the brakes to make sure they are working properly. Check that the wheel is securely attached and spinning freely.
Step Two: Unfasten the Brakes
Unfasten the Brakes
If you don’t need to remove the wheel, you can unfasten the brakes to access the worn-out brake pads. Here are the steps to follow:
Open the brake quick-release or loosen the brake cable
Open the brake quick-release lever or loosen the brake cable from the brake caliper to release the tension on the worn-out brake pads.
Locate the brake pad retention bolt
Look for the brake pad retention bolt on the back of the brake caliper. It will have a hexagonal or Allen head.
Loosen the brake pad retention bolt
Use the appropriate size wrench or Allen key to loosen the brake pad retention bolt. Be careful not to strip the bolt.
Remove the old brake pads
Carefully pull the old worn-out brake pads out of the caliper. If they are stuck, use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry them out.
Clean the brake caliper and rotor
Clean the brake caliper and rotor with rubbing alcohol or brake cleaner and a rag or paper towels.
Install the new brake pads
Insert the new brake pads into the caliper, making sure they are properly aligned with the rotor.
Tighten the brake pad retention bolt
Use the appropriate size wrench or Allen key to tighten the brake pad retention bolt to the manufacturer’s recommended torque.
Reattach the brake
Close the brake quick-release lever or reattach the brake cable to the brake caliper, making sure there is enough tension on the cable.
Test the brakes
Squeeze the brake lever to make sure the pads are gripping the rotor properly. If they are not, adjust the alignment until they do. Take the bike for a test ride and test the brakes to make sure they are working properly.
Step Three: Remove the Old Brake Pads
Remove the Old Brake Pads
After unfastening the brakes or removing the wheel, you can now remove the old brake pads. Here are the steps to follow:
Check the brake pad wear indicator
Before removing the old worn-out brake pads, check the wear indicator to determine if they need to be replaced. The wear indicator is a small metal tab that protrudes from the pad. If the tab is level with the pad, it’s time to replace the brake pads.
Remove the retaining pin or clip
Locate the retaining pin or clip that holds the brake pads in place. It’s usually located at the top of the brake caliper.
Remove the old brake pads
Gently pull the old brake pads out of the caliper. They should slide out easily, but if they are stuck, use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry them out.
Check the brake caliper and rotor
While the old pads are out, inspect the brake caliper and rotor for wear and damage. Clean the caliper and rotor with rubbing alcohol or brake cleaner and a rag or paper towels.
Install the new brake pads
Insert the new brake pads into the caliper, making sure they are properly aligned with the rotor. Some brake pads may have a specific orientation, so check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Reinsert the retaining pin or clip
Once the new brake pads are in place, reinsert the retaining pin or clip to hold them in place.
Test the brakes
Squeeze the brake lever to make sure the pads are gripping the rotor properly. If they are not, adjust the alignment until they do. Take the bike for a test ride and test the brakes to make sure they are working properly.
Step Four: Install the New Brake Pads
Install the New Brake Pads
Now that the old brake pads have been removed, it’s time to install the new ones. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Check the new brake pads Before installing the new brake pads, inspect them to make sure they are the correct ones for your bike and that they are undamaged.
Step 2: Apply anti-seize compound (optional) If recommended by the manufacturer, apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the back of the brake pad. This will help prevent the pads from sticking to the caliper.
Step 3: Insert the new brake pads Insert the new brake pads into the caliper, making sure they are properly aligned with the rotor. Some brake pads may have a specific orientation, so check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 4: Reinsert the retaining pin or clip Once the new brake pads are in place, reinsert the retaining pin or clip to hold them in place.
Step 5: Tighten the brake pad retention bolt If you had to remove the brake caliper to replace the brake pads, now is the time to reattach it to the bike frame or fork. Use the appropriate size wrench or Allen key to tighten the brake pad retention bolt to the manufacturer’s recommended torque.
Step 6: Reattach the wheel (if necessary) If you had to remove the wheel to replace the brake pads, now is the time to reattach it to the bike frame or fork. Make sure it is centered properly and tightened to the manufacturer’s recommended torque.
Step 7: Test the brakes Squeeze the brake lever to make sure the pads are gripping the rotor properly. If they are not, adjust the alignment until they do. Take the bike for a test ride and test the brakes to make sure they are working properly.
Step Five: Reattach the Brakes
After installing the new brake pads, it’s time to reattach the brakes. Here are the steps to follow:
- Reattach the brake arms or brake caliper to the bike frame or fork.
- Tighten the bolts or screws to the manufacturer’s recommended torque.
- Reconnect the brake cable or hydraulic line.
- Adjust the brake pads so that they are properly aligned with the rotor.
- Test the brakes by squeezing the brake lever and making sure the pads are gripping the rotor properly.
- Make any necessary adjustments until the brakes are working properly.
- Take the bike for a test ride to ensure the brakes are working correctly.
Step Six: Put the Wheel Back On
After reattaching the brakes, it’s time to put the wheel back on. Here are the steps to follow:
- Insert the wheel into the bike frame or fork dropouts.
- Make sure the wheel is centered properly and straight.
- Tighten the quick-release or axle nuts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque.
- Check that the brake pads are still properly aligned with the rotor.
- Test the brakes by squeezing the brake lever and making sure the pads are gripping the rotor properly.
- Make any necessary adjustments until the brakes are working properly.
Conclusion
Replacing worn-out brake pads on a bicycle is an essential part of bike maintenance. It’s a relatively straightforward process that can be done at home with a few tools and some basic knowledge. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can safely and effectively replace your old brake pads with new ones. Remember to always consult your bike’s owner’s manual or a professional mechanic if you are unsure about any of the steps or if your bike has different brake components. With properly functioning brakes, you can ride your bike with confidence and enjoy the ride.
If you need to replace worn-out brake pads on your bicycle, follow these simple steps. Keep your bike in top condition and ride safely. Visit Bicycle Repair for more tips and tricks to maintain your bike.