15/08/2011
For owners of the venerable Honda ST1100 Pan European, a motorcycle renowned for its reliability and touring prowess, every maintenance decision carries weight. Among the most critical components are the brake pads, vital for safety and ride quality. A common dilemma facing ST1100 enthusiasts is whether to stick with Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) brake pads, designed and supplied by Honda, or to opt for the often more budget-friendly aftermarket alternatives. While there's a prevailing notion that OEM always reigns supreme in quality, the landscape of motorcycle parts has evolved significantly, particularly in the internet age. This article delves into the nuances of this choice, examining cost, performance, rotor wear, and overall value to help you make an informed decision for your beloved Pan European.
Historically, the perception was that OEM brake pads commanded a significantly higher price, often double that of their aftermarket counterparts. This was largely true in the 'brick and mortar' era, where parts were sourced primarily through official dealerships, which naturally had higher overheads. Many riders, faced with this stark price difference, would often gravitate towards aftermarket options, assuming the quality-to-price ratio was more favourable.
However, the advent of the internet has dramatically reshaped the market. A quick online search now often reveals that OEM ST1100 brake pads are far more competitively priced, sometimes within a few pounds of premium aftermarket brands like EBC. This shift means that the historical '2x' price premium is often no longer a factor, at least for certain models and suppliers. For instance, obtaining a set of genuine Honda pads for around £30-£40 is now quite feasible, making the cost argument less clear-cut than it once was. It’s crucial for any ST1100 owner to conduct up-to-date price comparisons from various reputable online retailers, rather than relying on outdated assumptions. The 'expensive' label for OEM pads might now only apply if you're purchasing directly from a dealership with significant markups, underscoring the importance of shopping around.
Performance: The HH Friction Rating Explained
When discussing brake pad performance, especially for motorcycles, the SAE J866 friction rating is often cited. This alphanumeric code, typically seen as 'FF', 'GG', or 'HH', indicates the pad's friction coefficient at different temperatures. The first letter denotes the cold friction rating (up to 250°C), while the second letter indicates the hot friction rating (250°C to 680°C). For the ST1100, both OEM and most quality aftermarket pads will carry an HH friction rating. This signifies a high friction coefficient across both cold and hot operating temperatures, meaning they provide strong and consistent stopping power in various riding conditions.
The assumption, therefore, is that any HH-rated pad will offer relatively similar, if not identical, stopping power. While this rating provides a valuable baseline, it's worth noting that it doesn't account for every nuance of a pad's performance. Subtle differences in the pad's compound formulation, backing plate materials, and manufacturing processes can influence subjective factors such as initial bite, brake feel (how progressive the braking is), noise characteristics, and fade resistance under extreme use. However, for the vast majority of ST1100 riders engaging in typical road use – be it commuting or touring – the practical difference in stopping power between a genuine Honda HH pad and a reputable aftermarket HH pad is likely to be imperceptible. The consistency and reliability of the HH rating mean you can generally trust that either option will provide adequate and safe braking performance.
Rotor Longevity: A Complex Equation
The lifespan of your brake rotors is a significant concern for any motorcycle owner, as replacing them can be a costly endeavour. The question of whether OEM or aftermarket pads cause more rotor wear is highly subjective and depends on a multitude of factors beyond just the pad material itself. While it's true that some pad compounds can be more abrasive than others, making them 'harder' on rotors, reputable manufacturers – both OEM and aftermarket – strive for a balance between friction, longevity, and rotor compatibility.
The primary determinant of rotor wear is often the rider's style and the type of riding they do. A rider who commutes 8 miles each way through dense urban traffic, requiring frequent, heavy brake applications, will naturally wear their rotors (and pads) faster than a rider who primarily undertakes long, open-road tours with minimal braking. The number of brake applications per thousand miles is dramatically different in these two usage models. Furthermore, environmental factors such as dust, grit, and moisture can accelerate wear, regardless of the pad chosen. Proper brake maintenance, including regular cleaning of calipers and ensuring pistons move freely, also plays a crucial role in preventing uneven wear and extending rotor life. Based on experience, it's possible to achieve significant mileage – 100,000 miles or more – from front rotors even when using quality aftermarket pads, suggesting that pad choice alone isn't the sole arbiter of rotor lifespan. What you might save on pads over time could potentially offset, or even cover, the cost of eventual rotor replacement.
Aftermarket Alternatives: Quality for Less?
The aftermarket brake pad market for the ST1100 is vast, offering a range of brands from budget-friendly options to premium manufacturers. Brands like EBC, Brembo, and Galfer are well-regarded and offer pads specifically designed for the ST1100, often boasting the same HH friction rating as the OEM pads. The initial appeal of aftermarket pads often lies in their perceived cost advantage. While, as discussed, this advantage might be narrowing for OEM parts in the internet era, aftermarket options can still represent excellent cost-effectiveness, particularly if you're buying in bulk or from a supplier offering special deals.
Many aftermarket manufacturers invest heavily in research and development, often producing compounds that aim to improve upon OEM specifications in areas like initial bite, wet weather performance, or reduced noise, while maintaining or exceeding safety standards. The claim that aftermarket pads can provide the same quality for half the price might be an oversimplification in today's market, but it's certainly true that many offer comparable performance and longevity without the 'genuine part' premium. The key is to choose reputable brands and purchase from trusted suppliers to avoid counterfeit or substandard products, which could compromise your safety. Reviews from other ST1100 owners can be an invaluable resource when navigating the array of aftermarket options.
Making Your Choice: Factors to Consider
Deciding between OEM and aftermarket brake pads for your ST1100 ultimately comes down to a few key considerations:
- Cost: As highlighted, the price gap has narrowed. Always compare current prices from multiple reputable sources for both OEM and aftermarket options.
- Performance Feel: While HH-rated pads offer similar stopping power, some riders prefer a specific 'feel' – whether it's a sharper initial bite or a more progressive modulation. This is often subjective and might only be discernible to very experienced riders.
- Rotor Compatibility: Reputable pads are designed to be compatible with standard rotors. Unless you have modified rotors, this should not be a major concern, but some riders prefer the peace of mind that OEM pads are precisely matched to Honda rotors.
- Availability: OEM pads are typically available through Honda dealerships and specialist parts suppliers. Aftermarket pads are generally more widely available from a broader range of online retailers and motorcycle shops.
- Peace of Mind: For some, the reassurance of fitting genuine Honda parts, knowing they are designed and tested specifically for their motorcycle, outweighs any potential cost savings.
Comparative Overview: OEM vs. Aftermarket Pads
| Feature | OEM Pads (Honda) | Aftermarket Pads (e.g., EBC) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Historically higher, but now very competitive online. | Often perceived as more affordable, excellent value proposition. |
| Performance | Consistent, reliable HH rating; familiar Honda feel. | Generally HH-rated; performance can vary slightly by brand/compound, some offer specific characteristics. |
| Rotor Wear | Designed for optimal balance with Honda rotors; good longevity. | Varies by compound, but reputable brands offer good rotor longevity. |
| Availability | Through Honda dealers and specific online parts suppliers. | Wide range of online retailers, motorcycle shops, and specialist suppliers. |
| Confidence | Guaranteed Honda quality and exact fitment. | Relies on brand reputation, independent testing, and user reviews. |
Installation Tips
Regardless of whether you choose OEM or aftermarket pads, proper installation is crucial for safety and performance. Always consult your ST1100's service manual for specific torque settings and procedures. Ensure calipers are thoroughly cleaned, pistons are free-moving, and slides are properly lubricated. Once new pads are installed, it's essential to 'bed them in' correctly. This involves a series of moderate stops from increasing speeds, allowing the pad material to transfer evenly onto the rotor surface, optimising braking performance and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are aftermarket pads always cheaper than OEM for the ST1100?
A: Not necessarily anymore. While historically aftermarket pads were significantly cheaper, current online pricing often shows OEM pads being very competitive with quality aftermarket options for the ST1100. Always compare prices from multiple reputable sources before making a purchase.
Q: Do aftermarket pads wear rotors faster?
A: Reputable aftermarket pads with an HH friction rating are designed to work effectively with standard rotors and generally do not cause excessive wear. Rotor wear is more influenced by riding style, mileage, and overall brake system maintenance (e.g., sticking calipers) than by the brand of pad alone. Choose quality brands to ensure good rotor compatibility.
Q: How often should I replace my ST1100 brake pads?
A: There's no fixed mileage for pad replacement, as it depends heavily on your riding style, the type of roads you ride, and environmental conditions. Regularly inspect your brake pads for wear. Most pads have wear indicators; replace them when the friction material is close to these indicators, or if you notice a significant decrease in braking performance or unusual noises.
Q: What does 'HH' mean for brake pads?
A: 'HH' is a friction rating from the SAE J866 standard. The first 'H' indicates the pad's friction coefficient when cold, and the second 'H' indicates it when hot. 'H' is the highest rating in this system, meaning HH-rated pads provide excellent and consistent stopping power across a wide range of operating temperatures, both cold and hot.
Q: Can I mix and match different brands of pads on my ST1100 (e.g., OEM on front, aftermarket on rear)?
A: While it's generally acceptable to use different brands of pads on the front and rear axles (e.g., OEM front, aftermarket rear), it's highly recommended to use the same type and brand of pad for both calipers on a single axle (e.g., both front calipers should have the same pads). Mixing different compounds on the same axle can lead to inconsistent braking feel and potentially uneven wear or performance imbalances. For front and rear, it's less critical, but consistent brake feel across the bike is often preferred by riders.
In conclusion, the choice between OEM and aftermarket brake pads for your Honda ST1100 is no longer a clear-cut case of premium quality versus budget savings. Both options now offer compelling arguments, with OEM prices becoming more competitive and aftermarket quality remaining high from reputable brands. The best decision for you will hinge on your personal priorities – whether it’s absolute peace of mind with genuine parts, seeking the best value, or perhaps a specific feel that a particular aftermarket compound offers. Regardless of your choice, prioritising safety, purchasing from trusted sources, and ensuring correct installation are paramount to enjoying the superb braking performance your Pan European is capable of.
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