08/10/2008
Choosing the Right SRAM Brake Pads
When it comes to ensuring your SRAM braking system performs at its absolute best, the type of brake pad you choose is paramount. SRAM, a leader in bicycle componentry, offers a range of pads designed to complement their renowned stoppers. But with different compounds available, how do you know which ones are the right choice for your riding? This guide will delve into the specifics of SRAM's offerings, helping you to make an informed decision for optimal stopping power and longevity.
Genuine SRAM Pads: Why They Matter
The question often arises: "Are SRAM brake pads genuine?" The simple answer is yes, when purchased from reputable dealers, SRAM brake pads are indeed genuine components designed and manufactured by SRAM. The statement "To get the most out of your SRAM stoppers pair them with SRAM pads. They were made for each other" is not just marketing jargon; it highlights the meticulous engineering that goes into ensuring perfect compatibility and performance between SRAM brake levers, calipers, and pads. Using genuine SRAM pads guarantees that they have been designed to meet the specific tolerances and material requirements of your SRAM brake system, leading to superior modulation, power, and durability.
Understanding SRAM Brake Pad Compounds
SRAM primarily offers two main types of brake pads for their mountain bike (MTB) and road systems: Organic and Sintered. Each compound has its own set of characteristics, making them suitable for different riding conditions and preferences.
Organic (Resin) Brake Pads
Often recognisable by their black backing plate, SRAM's organic brake pads are a popular choice for their balance of performance and quiet operation. These pads are constructed from a composite of softer materials, including resins and friction modifiers, bonded to a metal backing plate.
- Quiet Operation: One of the most significant advantages of organic pads is their quiet nature. They tend to produce less noise, particularly in dry conditions, making for a more pleasant riding experience.
- Good Modulation: Organic compounds generally offer excellent initial bite and smooth, progressive modulation, allowing riders to feather the brakes with precision.
- Less Heat Build-up: While not as heat-resistant as sintered pads, organic compounds generally produce less heat under hard braking, which can be beneficial for preventing brake fade on longer descents.
- Better in Dry Conditions: They typically perform best in dry and mild conditions.
- Faster Bedding-in: Organic pads usually require a shorter bedding-in period to reach optimal performance.
A potential drawback is that they may wear down faster than sintered pads, especially in very muddy or abrasive conditions.
Sintered (Metallic) Brake Pads
Characterised by their copper-backed plate, SRAM's sintered brake pads are built for extreme durability and uncompromising stopping power, especially in challenging environments. These pads are made by sintering (fusing together at high temperatures) metallic particles, such as copper, iron, and other friction modifiers.
- Maximum Stopping Power: Sintered pads deliver the most aggressive and powerful braking performance, providing a strong initial bite and consistent power delivery.
- Exceptional Durability: Their metallic composition makes them highly resistant to wear, offering a significantly longer lifespan, particularly in wet, muddy, or dusty conditions where abrasive materials can quickly wear down organic pads.
- Superior Wet Weather Performance: The metallic compound excels in adverse weather, maintaining strong braking performance even when wet and muddy.
- Higher Heat Resistance: Sintered pads can withstand higher temperatures before exhibiting brake fade, making them ideal for long descents and demanding downhill riding.
The trade-off for this power and durability is that sintered pads can be noisier than organic pads, especially in dry conditions, and may require a longer bedding-in period. They can also be slightly harder on the brake rotor.
SRAM Pad Compatibility: Which Brakes Do They Fit?
It's crucial to ensure your chosen SRAM brake pads are compatible with your specific brake system. SRAM has designed its pads with clear compatibility in mind. Here’s a breakdown of common SRAM brake systems and the pads they use:
SRAM Code 2011+ / GUIDE RE BRAKE PADS
These pads are designed for SRAM's powerful Code and Guide RE brakes, known for their strong stopping power and consistent performance. They are available in both organic and sintered compounds, allowing riders to tailor their braking feel to their needs.
SRAM LEVEL / ELIXIR / ROAD 2 PIECE ORGANIC / ALUNINIUM BRAKE PADS
This category covers a broader range of SRAM's MTB and road disc brake systems, including the popular Level and Elixir series. The mention of "2 PIECE ORGANIC" and "ALUNINIUM BRAKE PADS" suggests specific designs focusing on quiet operation and potentially lighter weight due to aluminium backing plates in some variations. These are typically organic compounds.
SRAM MTB Brakes Compatibility Summary
To reiterate, the pads discussed are generally compatible with the following SRAM brake systems:
- SRAM Code 2011+
- SRAM Guide RE
- SRAM (Avid) – This often refers to older Avid models that are now part of the SRAM ecosystem, like Avid Elixir.
Always double-check the specific part number or product description to confirm compatibility with your exact brake model.
How Much Do SRAM Stoppers Cost?
The cost of SRAM brake pads can vary depending on the specific model, compound, and retailer. For instance, a pair of SRAM pads might retail around the $70.00 mark for some higher-end or specialised compounds, although more common organic or sintered replacements for popular models are typically much less, often in the £15-£30 range in the UK, depending on the retailer and whether they are genuine SRAM parts or high-quality aftermarket alternatives.
Are Organic Disc Brake Pads Good?
Yes, organic disc brake pads are good, especially for riders who prioritise quiet operation and smooth, predictable braking. They offer a fantastic all-around performance for general trail riding, cross-country, and even road cycling. Their main strengths lie in their quietness and good modulation. However, if your riding involves prolonged steep descents, extreme mud, or you demand the absolute maximum power and longevity in harsh conditions, sintered pads might be a more suitable choice.
SRAM Brake Pad Comparison Table
To help summarise the key differences, here's a quick comparison:
| Feature | Organic (Resin) Pads | Sintered (Metallic) Pads |
|---|---|---|
| Backing Plate Colour | Typically Black | Typically Copper/Metallic |
| Performance | Good all-around, quiet, smooth modulation | Maximum power, aggressive bite, consistent in heat |
| Noise Level | Quiet | Can be noisier, especially when dry |
| Durability | Moderate, may wear faster in abrasive conditions | High, excellent in mud and grit |
| Wet/Muddy Performance | Good, but can be affected by contamination | Excellent, maintains power and consistency |
| Heat Resistance | Good, but can fade under extreme use | Excellent, resists fade better |
| Bedding-in Time | Shorter | Longer |
| Rotor Wear | Lower | Potentially higher |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How do I know when my SRAM brake pads need replacing?
You'll typically notice a significant decrease in stopping power, increased lever travel (you might have to pull the lever closer to the handlebar), or audible squealing or grinding noises that weren't there before. Visually inspect the pad material; if it's worn down to less than 1mm of thickness, it's time for a change.
Q2: Can I mix organic and sintered pads?
While technically possible, it's generally not recommended. Mixing compounds can lead to inconsistent braking performance and may not provide the optimal braking characteristics that SRAM intends for its systems.
Q3: How do I bed in my new SRAM brake pads?
Bedding in is crucial for optimal performance. For organic pads, find a gentle slope and repeatedly apply the brakes to bring them up to a moderate temperature without coming to a complete stop. Repeat this 10-15 times. For sintered pads, the process is similar but may require slightly more aggressive braking and potentially more repetitions to achieve full performance. Avoid locking up the wheels during bedding in.
Q4: Are there non-SRAM compatible pads that work with my SRAM brakes?
Yes, there are reputable aftermarket brands that produce pads compatible with SRAM brakes. However, for the best guaranteed performance and to ensure you're getting the intended feel and power, genuine SRAM pads are always the safest bet. If opting for aftermarket, choose brands known for quality and compatibility.
By understanding the nuances between SRAM's organic and sintered brake pads, you can confidently select the right compound to enhance your riding experience and ensure your SRAM brakes deliver the reliable, powerful stopping you need, whether you're carving trails or navigating city streets.
If you want to read more articles similar to SRAM Brake Pad Guide, you can visit the Brakes category.