Shimano XTR 4-Piston Brake Pads M9120 M9220 | D02S H03C N04C

Shimano XTR 4-piston disc brake pads compatible with BR-M9120 and BR-M9220 hydraulic calipers. Designed for elite trail, enduro and race-level braking performance, XTR 4-piston systems use D02S, D03S, H03C, H03A, N04C and N03A pad shapes for maximum power, control and heat stability.

XTR 4-Piston Fitment

Pad shapes

D02S / D03S / H03C / H03A / N04C / N03A

Compatible calipers

BR-M9120 / BR-M9220 (XTR 4-Piston)


Enduro Pro

Maximum braking power and fade resistance for sustained descents and high-load riding.

Highest performance.


Factory Racing

Performance-focused compounds tuned for modulation, lever feel and controlled braking.

Balanced power & feel.


Standard Compounds

Includes Sintered, Semi-Metallic and Ceramic options with reliable, everyday performance.

Everyday performance.

Need help choosing a compound? View the guide below.

 View Compound Guide And Compatible Models ↓

Workshop Notes — Shimano XTR 4-Piston (M9120 / M9220)

  • M9120 wandering bite point: Under prolonged high-heat descents the bite point can shift slightly. A precise bleed improves consistency.
  • Finned pad movement: Earlier M9120 models may develop light metallic rattle from finned pads on rough terrain.
  • Ceramic piston care: XTR 4-piston calipers use lightweight ceramic pistons. Always retract pistons with plastic tools to prevent damage.
  • Sticky pistons: Brake dust buildup can cause uneven piston retraction and rotor rub. Regular piston cleaning keeps braking balanced.
  • M9220 improvements: Updated internal seals and Shimano Low-Viscosity mineral oil significantly improve bite-point stability.
  • Oil requirement: M9220 must use Shimano LV mineral oil. Standard mineral oil can cause sluggish lever return.
  • Lever clamp torque: XTR clamps are lightweight. Use correct torque settings to prevent cracking.

🏆 Enduro Pro Compounds (Maximum Performance)

Compound Backing Plate Dry Wet Heat Life Best For
Enduro Pro Ultimate 🟧 Orange ★★★★★+ ★★★★★+ ★★★★★+ ★★★★★+ Elite enduro, alpine descents, race-level braking
Enduro Pro Semi-Metallic 🔵 Blue ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ Aggressive trail & mixed terrain
Enduro Pro Resin ⚫ Black ★★★★ ★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★ Dry trail riding, progressive modulation

🏁 Factory Racing Compounds (High Performance)

Compound Backing Plate Dry Wet Heat Life Best For
Factory Racing (Green) 🟩 Steel ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★★+ High-load trail, e-MTB, long descents
Factory Racing Titanium ⚪ Titanium ★★★★ ★★★ ★★★★ ★★★ Lightweight race builds
Factory Racing Stealth 🟪 Stealth Purple ★★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★ Quiet performance in mixed conditions
Factory Racing Organic ⚪ Grey ★★★★ ★★ ★★ ★★★★ Smooth feel, low rotor wear

🔧 Standard Compounds (Reliable Everyday Performance)

Compound Backing Plate Dry Wet Heat Life Best For
Semi-Metallic ⚫ Black ★★★★ ★★★ ★★★ ★★★ Trail, commuting, general MTB
Ceramic – Nano Tech 🟢 Green ★★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★ ★★★ XC, dry trails, reduced rotor wear
ENDURO Ceramic 🔴 Red ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★ ★★★★ Heavier riders, higher heat riding
Sintered (Metallic) 🟡 Gold ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★+ ★★★★★ Wet, muddy, race and alpine use

📚 Helpful Resources

🔧 How to Install Gorilla Brakes Pads 🚴 Bedding-in New Brake Pads Guide 🔊 Hydraulic Brake Noise 📊 Gorilla Brakes Compound Comparison Chart ♻️ Brake Pad Recycling Program 🧰 Customer Support 📞 Contact Gorilla Brakes 📰 Gorilla Brakes Latest News

Frequently Asked Questions

What brake pads fit Shimano XTR 4-piston brakes?
Shimano XTR BR-M9120 and BR-M9220 4-piston calipers use D02S, D03S, H03C, H03A, N04C and N03A pad shapes.
Why do my XTR brakes squeal?
Squeal is usually caused by contamination or uneven piston movement. Clean the pistons, re-centre the caliper and bed pads in correctly.
Why does my XTR bite point change on long descents?
Older M9120 systems can develop an inconsistent bite point under heavy braking. A full bleed restores consistent lever feel.