Bike Brake Pads – Complete Guide to Disc Brake Performance


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Bike Brake Pads: Disc Pad Types, Compounds & Performance

This is the complete guide to bike brake pads — what they are, how compounds change braking feel, and how to choose the right disc brake pads for MTB, road, gravel and e-bikes.

Want a quick side-by-side view? See the Compound Comparison Chart.
Quick tip: Identify your caliper first (brand + model + piston count), then choose a compound based on conditions and braking load.

What Are Bike Brake Pads?

Disc brake pads sit inside your brake caliper. When you pull the brake lever, hydraulic pressure pushes the pads against the rotor (disc), creating friction that slows the wheel.

A brake pad consists of:

  • Friction compound – the braking material contacting the rotor
  • Backing plate – structural support transferring force evenly
  • Bond layer – securing compound to backing plate under heat

Compound choice influences initial bite, modulation, heat stability, noise behaviour, rotor wear and durability.

Types of Disc Brake Pad Compounds

Resin (Organic) Brake Pads
Smooth modulation and lower vibration, often quieter in dry conditions. Great if you prioritise lever feel over maximum lifespan.
Shop Resin Brake Pads
Semi-Metallic Brake Pads
Organic binders blended with metallic particles for stronger durability and improved heat stability — a reliable all-round option.
Shop Semi-Metallic Brake Pads
Sintered Brake Pads
Formed by fusing metallic particles under high heat and pressure. Commonly chosen for wet, muddy, gritty conditions and sustained braking loads.
Shop Sintered Brake Pads
Enduro Pro Ultimate
Built for riders demanding consistent braking under repeated heavy load — ideal for downhill, enduro, alpine descents and full-power e-MTB use.
Shop Enduro Pro Ultimate
Specialist & Advanced Compounds
Explore our specialist ranges for different braking character:
• Ceramic – Nano Tech (smooth, rotor-friendly feel)
• Enduro Ceramic (mixed-terrain consistency)
• NRS One (recycling program supported)

Want the full breakdown of compound behaviour (bite, noise, durability and heat stability)? See the Compound Comparison Chart.

How Compounds Influence Braking Performance

Modern disc brake pads are engineered blends combining organic binders, metallic particles, ceramic fibres and friction modifiers. Adjusting material ratios changes initial bite, modulation, heat stability, noise behaviour, wear rate and rotor friendliness.

For deeper material insight, read What Are Brake Pads Made Of?.

How to Choose the Right Brake Pads

  • Riding conditions (wet vs dry)
  • Brake load and descent length
  • Bike type (MTB, road, gravel, eBike)
  • Noise preference
  • Desired balance between durability and modulation

If you’re unsure, use our Fitment Support.

Installation & Maintenance

Correct bedding-in and rotor cleanliness significantly influence braking performance and noise behaviour.