Understanding Brake Pads: A Comprehensive Review

Introduction

When it comes to bicycle maintenance, one of the most critical components to consider is the brake system. Ensuring your bike is equipped with the right brake pads can significantly impact performance, safety, and overall riding experience. Sinter, a company that designs and produces organic brake pads in Slovenia, offers a variety of brake pads tailored to different types of bikes and riding conditions. In this guide, we'll explore the various options Sinter provides, helping you choose the best brake pads for your needs.

Types of Brake Pads by Sinter

Sinter offers a wide range of brake pads compatible with different bicycle brands and models. Below, we break down the types of brake pads available, categorized by their compatibility:

1. Shimano Brake Pads

• Shimano A Type: Compatible with Shimano BR-M975, XTR BR-M975/965/966, XT BR-M775/765, SLX BR-M665, Deore BR-M525/535, and TRP Dash/TRP Tektro.

• Shimano B Type: Compatible with Shimano BR-M575, BR-M515/505/495/486/445, Nexave, Tektro Aquila, Draco, and IO.

• Shimano D Type: Compatible with Shimano BR-M8000/8100, SLX BR-M7120, Deore BR-M6120/MT520/420, and Tektro HD-M75/HD-E710.

• Shimano G Type: Compatible with Shimano BR-M9000/9020, XTR BR-M9100, XT BR-M8100/8000/8120/8020, and SLX BR-M7100/7120.

• Shimano K Type: Compatible with Shimano Ultegra BR-R8070, Dura-Ace BR-R9170, and GRX BR-RX810/RX400.

2. Avid Brake Pads

• Avid 5: Compatible with Avid Juicy 5, 7, Ultimate, BB7 Mechanical.

• Avid 9: Compatible with Avid Elixir 7, 9, CR, R, Sram XX, X0, T, Level Ultimate, TLM.

• Avid, Sram: Compatible with Code (2011–2014), Code R, Guide RE.

3. Magura Brake Pads

• Magura: Compatible with Marta, MT 4/5/6/7/8, Louise 2007/2010.

• Magura, Brake Force One: Compatible with MT2, MT4, MT6, MT8, and Brake Force One.

• Magura: Compatible with MT 5, MT 7, MT Trail (FW).

4. Formula Brake Pads

• Formula: Compatible with R1, R0, RX, and Mega.

• Formula: Compatible with Cura 4, C1, and other models.

5. Hope Brake Pads

• Hope: Compatible with Tech 3 E4, Mono Mini, Mono M4, Tech X2, and other models.

6. Hayes Brake Pads

• Hayes: Compatible with Stroker Trail, Ryde, Radar.

• Hayes: Compatible with Dominion A4.

7. Sram Brake Pads

• Sram: Compatible with Red (Hydraulic caliper), Force 1/22 (HRD), Rival 1/22, Level Ultimate, and TLM (2019–2020).

8. Zoom Brake Pads

• Zoom: Compatible with DB280, DB350, DB520, DB350, DB550.

Choosing the Right Brake Pad Compound

Sinter offers four different brake pad compounds, each designed for specific riding conditions:

1. Red - S514:

   • Suitable for all types of bicycles.
   • Designed for long-lasting performance in dry and light-wet conditions.
   • Available in black only.

2. Black - S550:

   • Semi-metallic organic compound.
   • Long pad life with great modulation.
   • Ideal for muddy and wet conditions.

3. Green - S2032:

   • Soft compound for silent use.
   • Designed to work well on larger brake rotors and under hard braking conditions.
   • Suitable for those seeking quiet braking.

4. Blue - S530:

   • Organic brake pad designed for fast stopping and low noise.
   • Best for heavier bikes and prolonged braking.

How to Choose the Right Brake Pads

When choosing the right brake pads for your bicycle, consider the type of riding you do and the conditions you'll be riding in:

• MTB (Mountain Biking): Red and Black pads are ideal due to their durability and ability to handle rough terrains.

• Road & Cyclocross: Green pads are best for smooth, consistent braking, while Blue pads provide quick stopping power for high-speed descents.

• Gravel & City Biking: Choose Red or Blue pads for their all-around performance, ensuring safety in various conditions.

• E-Bike: Black pads offer the durability needed for the higher speeds and increased wear associated with e-bikes.

Conclusion

Selecting the right brake pads is crucial for optimizing your bike’s performance and ensuring safety during rides. Sinter provides a comprehensive range of brake pads tailored to various bike types and riding conditions, making it easier for cyclists to find the perfect match. By understanding the different types and compounds available, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your riding experience.