Finding Your Ferodo Motorcycle Brake Pads

Locating the Right Ferodo Brake Pads for Your Motorcycle

When it comes to the vital stopping power of your motorcycle, there's no room for compromise. Ferodo, a name synonymous with braking excellence, offers a comprehensive range of brake pads and shoes designed for both on-road and off-road machines. But with various compounds and specifications available, how do you ensure you're selecting the correct Ferodo brake pads for your specific make, model, and riding style? This guide will walk you through the process, from using Ferodo's own tools to understanding their product lines.

The Ferodo Pad Selector Tool: Your First Stop

Ferodo understands the importance of precision when it comes to replacement parts. To make your search as straightforward as possible, they provide an invaluable resource: the Ferodo "Pad Selector Tool." This online tool is designed to help you pinpoint the exact brake pads your motorcycle requires. Here's how to use it effectively:

• Access the Tool: Navigate to the Ferodo website or your preferred motorcycle parts supplier's site that features the Ferodo Pad Selector.
• Enter Your Motorcycle Details: You will typically be prompted to enter your motorcycle's 'Make', 'Year', and 'Model'. Be as accurate as possible with this information. Even minor variations can lead to incorrect parts.
• Click 'Search': Once you've entered the relevant details, click the 'Search' or equivalent button.
• Confirm Part Numbers: The tool will then display the compatible Ferodo brake pads and/or shoes for your motorcycle. It's crucial to cross-reference the part numbers with your motorcycle's service manual or existing brake pads if possible, to ensure a perfect match.

This tool is the most reliable method for identifying the correct part numbers, saving you time and potential frustration.

Understanding Ferodo Brake Pad Compounds

Ferodo doesn't offer a one-size-fits-all solution. They have developed different friction materials, each tailored to specific riding demands and preferences. Understanding these compounds will help you make an informed choice:

P - PLATINUM: The Versatile Organic Option

The Ferodo Platinum range represents the No.1 Performing Organic Friction Material. These pads are designed for riders seeking a 'soft' and controlled braking feel, making them suitable for both street and off-road applications.

• Key Features:
  • Non-Asbestos organic compound.
  • Highest coefficient of friction available in an organic road friction material.
  • Thermal underlay to reduce heat transfer to the brake fluid.
  • Zinc alloy coated backplate for reduced corrosion and to prevent piston sticking.
  • Provides a 'soft' feel preferred by conservative riders.
  • Requires bedding-in for optimal performance.
  • Performs well in both wet and dry conditions.
  • Suitable for MX and Off-Road use where a non-sintered pad is preferred.
  • Excellent for both front and rear fitment.
  • Compatible with cast iron or stainless steel discs.

AG - ARGENTO: The Original Organic Choice

Ferodo's original organic friction material, the AG Argento, is often the OEM first choice for many scooters and commuter motorcycles. They offer a balance of performance, longevity, and value.

• Key Features:
  • Non-Asbestos organic compound.
  • OE quality compound.
  • Zinc alloy coated backing plate for reduced corrosion and to prevent piston sticking.
  • Excellent pad life.
  • Prolonged disc life.
  • Requires bedding-in for optimal performance.
  • Suitable for front and rear use.
  • Compatible with cast iron or stainless steel discs.

ST – SINTERGRIP ROAD: High-Performance Sintered Pads

For the high-performance sportsbike rider, the ST SinterGrip Road series offers the Next Generation Pad. These are full sintered compounds designed to handle the immense power of modern sportsbikes.

• Key Features:
  • Full sintered compound for superior braking performance.
  • Highest coefficient of friction (HH Friction Rating) for road use.
  • Highest mechanical bonding between friction material and backplate.
  • Copper coated backplate for reduced corrosion and to prevent piston sticking.
  • Minimal bedding-in required.
  • Offers up to three times the pad life of competitive organic products.
  • Results in 20% less disc wear compared to competitive sintered compounds.
  • Performs equally well in wet and dry conditions.
  • Excellent for front and rear fitment.
  • Important: Do not use with cast iron discs; suitable only for stainless steel discs.

STAC ARRAY COOLING (TRACK DAY) & XRAC ARRAY COOLING (RACE): The Coolest Pads

These are Ferodo's advanced sintered brake pads featuring Array Cooling technology. This innovative design significantly reduces brake temperatures through a radiant cooling effect, offering improved resistance to high-temperature fade and increased pad bite.

• Key Features:
  • Unique Array Cooling design for improved heat dissipation.
  • Developed by Federal Mogul for superior performance.
  • Reduces brake temperatures considerably.
  • Improved resistance to high-temperature fade.
  • Increased pad bite for sharper stopping power.
  • Maintains consistent performance throughout the pad's life.
  • Tested and used by factory AMA racing teams.
  • (Specific suitability for disc materials would need to be confirmed based on the exact STAC/XRAC variant).

CP2 – CP211 (RACE): Ceramic Compound Excellence

The Ferodo CPRO ceramic compound, exemplified by the CP211, provides the exceptional performance and modulation required by professional riders. Derived from Ferodo's extensive racing heritage, these pads are recommended for high-capacity motorcycles and demanding conditions.

• Key Features:
  • Excellent bite, performance, and modulation.
  • Very kind to brake discs, promoting longer disc life.
  • Suitable for both stainless steel and cast-iron discs.
  • Recommended for high CC motorcycles and demanding riding.

SG - SINTERGRIP OFF ROAD: Leading the Dirt Bike Arena

The SG SinterGrip Off Road compound is positioned as the New World Leader in the Dirt Bike Arena. It's the number one sintered compound designed to outperform in all conditions, whether dry or wet.

• Key Features:
  • Top-tier sintered compound for off-road performance.
  • Outperforms in both dry and wet conditions.
  • (Further specific details would depend on the exact SG variant, but generally offer durability and consistent stopping power in varied terrain).

Installation and Bedding-In: Crucial Steps

Once you've identified and purchased the correct Ferodo brake pads, proper installation and bedding-in are essential to achieve optimal braking performance and ensure the longevity of both the pads and your brake discs.

How to Change Brake Pads (General Overview)

Ferodo provides helpful 'How To' videos for changing brake pads. While specific steps can vary slightly between motorcycle models, the general principles remain consistent for all motorcycles using hydraulic disc brakes:

• Safety First: Ensure the motorcycle is securely supported on a stand. Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection.
• Access the Caliper: You'll need to remove the wheel or at least loosen it to gain access to the brake caliper. Remove any retaining pins or bolts holding the brake pads in place.
• Remove Old Pads: Carefully slide out the old brake pads. Note their orientation.
• Inspect Discs and Caliper: Before fitting new pads, inspect the brake disc for any signs of damage, scoring, or excessive wear. If the disc is damaged or worn beyond its minimum thickness, it should be replaced. Clean the caliper assembly, ensuring the piston(s) move freely. You may need a brake caliper piston tool to retract the piston(s) to make space for the new, thicker pads.
• Install New Pads: Fit the new Ferodo pads into the caliper, ensuring they are correctly oriented. Replace any retaining pins or bolts.
• Reassemble: Reinstall the wheel and ensure all components are tightened to the manufacturer's specified torque settings.
• Top Up Brake Fluid: Check the brake fluid level in the master cylinder. You may need to top it up with the correct type of brake fluid (refer to your owner's manual).

Important Note: If you are not comfortable performing this procedure, it is highly recommended to have the brake pads fitted by a qualified technician. Brake systems are critical safety components.

The Importance of Bedding-In

New brake pads, especially organic and sintered types, require a 'bedding-in' process to achieve their best performance. This process transfers a thin layer of friction material from the pad to the brake disc surface, creating a uniform surface for optimal contact.

General Bedding-In Procedure:

1. Initial Stops: Start with several light stops from moderate speeds (e.g., 30-40 mph), allowing the brakes to cool completely between stops.
2. Moderate Stops: Progress to a series of firmer stops from higher speeds (e.g., 50-60 mph), again allowing for cooling periods. Avoid full, hard braking during this initial phase.
3. Avoid Prolonged Heat: During the bedding-in process, avoid prolonged, heavy braking that could overheat the pads before they are properly bedded.
4. Check for Consistency: You should notice the braking performance gradually improving. The bedding-in process typically takes around 10-20 stops, depending on the pad compound and riding conditions.

Following the manufacturer's specific bedding-in instructions, often provided with the pads or on their website, is always the best approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How do I know if my brake pads need replacing?

A1: Look for a significant reduction in braking performance, unusual noises (grinding or squealing), or a spongy feel at the brake lever. You can also visually inspect the pad material; if it's worn down to the metal backing plate or below the minimum thickness specification, it's time for replacement.

Q2: Can I mix different types of brake pads on my motorcycle?

A2: It is strongly advised against mixing different types of brake pads (e.g., organic on one side and sintered on the other) or even different brands on the same axle. This can lead to uneven braking, reduced performance, and potential damage to the brake system.

Q3: How often should I change my brake fluid?

A3: Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point and can lead to brake fade. It's generally recommended to change brake fluid every 1-2 years, or as specified in your motorcycle's service manual.

Q4: What is the difference between sintered and organic brake pads?

A4: Organic pads use a composite material that is softer, quieter, and gentler on discs, offering a progressive feel. Sintered pads are made by fusing metal particles together at high temperatures. They offer higher friction coefficients, better heat resistance, and longer life, but can be noisier and wear discs faster if not properly matched.

Q5: Do Ferodo brake pads require a specific type of brake disc?

A5: Yes, compatibility is key. For example, their ST SinterGrip Road pads are suitable for stainless steel discs but should *not* be used with cast iron discs. Always check the specific product information or use the Pad Selector Tool to confirm compatibility with your motorcycle's brake discs.

By utilizing the Ferodo Pad Selector Tool and understanding the nuances of their different brake pad compounds, you can confidently find and install the perfect stopping power for your motorcycle, ensuring safety and performance on every ride.

If you want to read more articles similar to Finding Your Ferodo Motorcycle Brake Pads, you can visit the Brakes category.