Choosing the Right SRAM Brake Pads: A Comprehensive Guide

Selecting the appropriate brake pads for your SRAM braking system is crucial for optimal performance and safety. This guide will walk you through identifying your brake pads, choosing the right material, and installing them correctly. Additionally, we'll explore high-performance options like Gorilla Brakes' Enduro Pro compounds.

Step 1: Identify Your Brake Pad

SRAM and AVID brake systems require specific brake pads for proper fit and function. Here's how to identify the correct pads for your brakes:

1.1 Match Your Brake Pad Shape

Use SRAM’s brake pad identification chart to visually match your existing pad's shape. This ensures compatibility with your brake system.

1.2 Locate the Serial Number

If you're unsure of your brake model, locate the serial number on the brake caliper. Refer to SRAM’s Component Serial Numbers location guide for assistance. Entering this number on the SRAM Service Website will provide detailed information about your brake model and compatible parts.

1.3 Understand Brake Pad Categories

SRAM categorizes brake pads based on caliper design:

• Small Brake Pads: Used in MTB and road two-piston calipers like Level Stealth and RED AXS.
• Small Asymmetric Pads: Designed for monoblock calipers found in certain SRAM models from 2012-2019.
• Medium Brake Pads: Exclusive to mountain bike brakes such as G2 and Guide series.
• Large Brake Pads: For heavy-duty brakes like CODE and DB8, suitable for enduro, downhill, or e-bikes.
• X-Large Brake Pads: Designed for extreme power brakes like the Maven series.

Step 2: Select Your Pad Material

Choosing the right brake pad material affects braking performance, durability, and noise levels. SRAM offers various compounds, each identified by a distinct colored backing plate:

2.1 Organic Pads

• Quiet (Organic Black): Standard OEM compound for road brakes, offering quiet operation.
• Quiet Lightweight (Organic Aluminium): Lighter option for reduced weight.
• Quiet/Powerful (Organic Grey): Standard OEM compound for MTB brakes, balancing power and noise reduction.

2.2 Sintered Pads

• Heavy Duty (Sintered Copper): Durable and effective in wet conditions, ideal for aggressive riding.

2.3 Gorilla Brakes' Enduro Pro Compounds

For enhanced performance, consider Gorilla Brakes' Enduro Pro compounds, compatible with various SRAM models:

• Enduro Pro Ultimate: Designed for extreme downhill and aggressive trail riding, offering exceptional stopping power and heat dissipation.
• Enduro Pro Semi-Metallic: Balances power and durability, suitable for all-terrain riders in various conditions.
• Enduro Pro Resin: Provides smooth, predictable braking, ideal for recreational rides in dry conditions.

These compounds are engineered for superior performance and are compatible with SRAM brake models such as CODE, GUIDE RE, G2 RE, DB8, and others.

Note: Switching between different pad compounds may require replacing your rotors to ensure optimal braking performance.

Step 3: Installation

Proper installation is key to maintaining brake performance and safety. Follow these steps:

3.1 Preparation

• Avoid Contamination: Handle pads and rotors with clean hands to prevent oil transfer, which can reduce braking efficiency.
• Retract Pistons: Use old pads and a flathead screwdriver to gently push pistons back into the caliper, facilitating new pad installation.

3.2 Installation Steps

• Insert New Pads: Place the new pads into the caliper, ensuring correct alignment.
• Secure Pads: Install the pad retention pin and e-clip to prevent pads from dislodging during use.

3.3 Bed-In Process

Properly bed in new pads and rotors by gradually applying brakes at increasing speeds. This process transfers a thin layer of pad material to the rotor, enhancing braking performance.

Additional Resources

For detailed instructions and visual guides, refer to SRAM’s resources:

• Brake Pad Installation Video
• Disc Brake Bed-In Procedure

By following these steps and selecting the appropriate brake pads, including high-performance options like Gorilla Brakes' Enduro Pro compounds, you can ensure your SRAM brake system operates safely and effectively.