Brake pads: everything you need to know when choosing the ones you need

Almost always, having a motorcycle is synonymous with a love of adventure and the feeling of complete freedom on the road, but that freedom can be clouded by a lack of safety.

One of the most important aspects that you should not leave aside to enjoy safe driving are the brake pads, one of the most fundamental parts of the motorcycle and that you must keep in perfect condition at all times.

The pads wear out with every braking. The symptoms are very obvious: if they make a noise it means that they no longer have adequate contact between the disc and the pad, if we have to exert a lot of pressure on the lever or if it is less than 3 millimeters thick it is time to replace them.

However, it may also be the case that you have a brand new motorcycle and want to change the pads to others more suitable for your riding style. Normally, new motorcycles come with standard brake pads, as the manufacturer seeks to ensure that the product meets the needs of a significant range of potential customers.

There are brake pads for every motorcycle and riding style. When it comes to changing them, you face a whole world of possibilities and prices. Many of them are from other countries, so in the world of motorcycling it is important that the instructions for the pills come in our language; in these cases, we must have a professional translator. We tell you all the aspects that you have to take into account when choosing them:

• The pads can be sintered, semi-metallic or organic. Sintered ones are the most advanced, while semi-metallic or organic ones are cheaper, but they have their usefulness depending on the use and characteristics of the motorcycle.

• You should consider that pads with soft friction compound will have high durability but their braking capacity will be softer, so you will need more meters to brake.

• The harder and sintered compounds will increase the braking capacity allowing for more intense driving.

As always, it is best to let yourself be advised by an expert who can offer you the option that best suits your driving style.