Brakes
What are Brake Pads?
The friction blocks that grip the wheel or rotor to slow you down.
Simplified schematic — not to scale.
In plain English
Brake pads are replaceable blocks of friction material that squeeze against either the wheel rim or a disc rotor whenever you pull the brake lever.
A simple analogy
“They're the bit that does the actual grabbing — everything else just squeezes them into place.”
How it works
Pulling the lever pulls a cable or pushes hydraulic fluid, which forces the pads against a spinning surface. Friction converts your speed into heat.
Signs of trouble
- ⚠Squealing or grinding noise when braking
- ⚠Longer stopping distances
- ⚠Pad material worn down to under 1mm
Rough UK cost
£10 – £40 a pair, fitted
Always get a written quote. Prices vary by bike, region and parts brand.
Heads up: Bikeautonomy is for general guidance only. If your bike is behaving oddly or you're not confident, get it looked at by a qualified bike mechanic.