26/11/2006
When you fit new brake pads to your motorcycle, you might notice that their initial stopping power isn't quite what you'd expect. This is perfectly normal, and it's all down to a process known as 'bedding-in' or 'burnishing'. This isn't just a fancy term; it's a critical step that ensures your new pads work effectively, safely, and last as long as possible. Skipping this vital procedure can lead to reduced braking performance, premature wear, and even damage to your braking system. So, what exactly is brake pad bedding-in, and how do you get it right?
What is Brake Pad Bedding-In?
Brake pad bedding-in is the process of transferring a thin, uniform layer of friction material from the brake pad onto the surface of the brake disc (or rotor). This creates an ideal mating surface for both components, allowing them to work together efficiently. When brake pads are new, their surfaces are relatively smooth and untouched. The bedding-in process essentially 'roughens up' and conditions these surfaces, ensuring maximum contact and optimal friction transfer.
Why is Bedding-In So Important?
The importance of correctly bedding-in your motorcycle brake pads cannot be overstated. Here's why:
- Optimal Stopping Power: Unbedded pads won't grip the disc as effectively, resulting in longer stopping distances. Bedding-in ensures you get the maximum braking performance from your new pads.
- Reduced Noise: Improperly bedded pads are more prone to squealing and other unpleasant noises. A proper bedding-in procedure helps to eliminate these issues.
- Even Wear: This process promotes even contact between the pad and disc, preventing uneven wear patterns. Uneven wear can shorten the lifespan of both the pads and the discs.
- Heat Dissipation: Bedding-in helps to cure the friction material, allowing it to withstand higher temperatures without fading. This improves the brake system's ability to dissipate heat.
- Preventing Glazing: If brake pads are used hard without being bedded in, the friction material can overheat and 'glaze over'. Glazed pads become smooth and hard, drastically reducing their effectiveness and requiring replacement.
- Disc Surface Preparation: It's not just about the pads; the process also prepares the disc surface for optimal interaction.
How to Bed-In Motorcycle Brake Pads: A Step-by-Step Guide
The general principle is to perform a series of moderate-to-firm stops from a moderate speed, allowing the brakes to cool between applications. It’s crucial to avoid slamming on the brakes or coming to a complete stop during this process, as this can create uneven deposits and negate the benefits of bedding-in.
Preparation:
- Ensure the new brake pads are correctly installed and that all components of the braking system are in good working order.
- Find a safe, open area with no traffic, such as an empty industrial estate or a quiet country road.
- Ensure you have ample space to perform the braking manoeuvres safely.
The Bedding-In Procedure:
- Initial Slow Stops: Begin by performing about 5-10 moderate stops from a relatively low speed (e.g., 30-50 km/h or 20-30 mph). Apply the brakes firmly but not aggressively, and release them before coming to a complete stop. Allow the bike to roll to a stop.
- Increasing Intensity: Gradually increase the speed and braking intensity for the next 5-10 stops. Aim for speeds of around 60-80 km/h (40-50 mph) and apply the brakes firmly enough to feel the pads begin to grip effectively, but again, avoid full-on emergency stops. Release the brakes before coming to a complete stop.
- Cooling Period: After each stop, allow the brakes to cool down. This is crucial. You can achieve this by riding for a short period without using the brakes, or by letting the bike sit for a few minutes. Avoid sitting with the brake lever/pedal held down, as this can transfer heat unevenly and cause issues.
- Repeat: Repeat the process of moderate braking and cooling for about 15-20 stops in total. The exact number can vary depending on the pad material and manufacturer recommendations.
- Final Assessment: After the procedure, the brakes should feel more responsive and provide stronger stopping power. You might notice a slight change in brake lever feel.
Important Considerations and Tips:
- Manufacturer Recommendations: Always check the specific bedding-in instructions provided by the brake pad manufacturer. Different materials (e.g., organic, sintered, semi-metallic) may have slightly different requirements.
- Avoid Overheating: The goal is to warm the pads and discs, not to overheat them to the point of smoking or discolouration. If you see smoke, you've gone too far.
- No Full Stops: It's vital not to hold the brakes on once you've stopped. Releasing the pressure allows air to circulate and cool the components evenly.
- Be Patient: Bedding-in takes time and a bit of effort. Rushing the process will compromise the results.
- Listen to Your Brakes: Pay attention to any unusual noises. Some initial light noise might be normal, but persistent squealing or grinding needs investigation.
- Disc Condition: If your brake discs are worn, grooved, or warped, new pads may not bed-in correctly. Consider inspecting or replacing your discs if they are not in good condition.
What Happens if You Don't Bed-In Your Brake Pads?
Failing to bed-in new brake pads can lead to several undesirable outcomes:
- Poor Initial Performance: Your brakes will feel weak and unresponsive, leading to longer stopping distances and potentially dangerous situations.
- Reduced Pad and Disc Life: Uneven material transfer and glazing can significantly shorten the lifespan of both your brake pads and discs.
- Brake Fade: The pads may not be able to withstand heat effectively, leading to a loss of braking power under heavy use.
- Noise Issues: Increased likelihood of brake squeal and other noises due to improper mating surfaces.
- Potential Damage: In severe cases, improper bedding can lead to warping of the brake discs or irreversible damage to the pad material.
Types of Brake Pads and Bedding-In
While the general principle remains the same, different types of brake pad materials might benefit from slightly varied approaches:
| Pad Type | Characteristics | Bedding-In Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Organic (Resin) | Softer, quieter, good initial bite, less fade, wear faster. | Generally easier to bed-in. Focus on moderate stops and avoiding overheating. Sensitive to glazing. |
| Sintered (Metallic) | Harder, more durable, perform well in wet/hot conditions, can be noisier, require more heat to work optimally. | Require more stops and potentially slightly higher speeds to bed-in properly. Can take longer to reach peak performance. Crucial to avoid glazing. |
| Semi-Metallic | A blend of organic and metallic. Offers a balance of performance, durability, and heat resistance. | Similar to organic, but may require a few more stops to achieve optimal performance. Good all-rounders. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How long does it take to bed in motorcycle brake pads?
The entire process typically involves around 15-20 stops, spread over a period of time. It’s more about the number of applications and allowing for cooling than a specific time duration. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour of focused effort.
Q2: Can I bed in my brake pads in city traffic?
It's strongly advised not to attempt bedding-in in heavy city traffic. The controlled, moderate stops and cool-down periods are essential, which are difficult to achieve safely in congested urban environments. You need open spaces.
Q3: My new pads are still noisy after bedding-in. What should I do?
While bedding-in reduces noise, some pad materials are inherently noisier than others. If the noise is excessive or sounds like grinding, check for proper installation, disc condition, or consider if the pad material is suitable for your riding style. Sometimes, a few more gentle stops can help further.
Q4: Do I need to bed-in brake pads on both front and rear brakes?
Yes, if you are replacing pads on both the front and rear, both sets should be bedded-in following the same procedure.
Q5: Can I bed-in my brake pads on a dyno?
While a dyno can simulate braking, it doesn't replicate the real-world scenario of air cooling and the forces involved when the bike is moving. For the best results, bedding-in should always be performed on the road.
Conclusion
Brake pad bedding-in is a fundamental maintenance task that directly impacts your motorcycle's safety and performance. By taking the time to properly bed-in your new brake pads, you ensure they deliver optimal stopping power, last longer, and contribute to a safer riding experience. Don't underestimate this crucial step – your life could depend on it!
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