Brake Pads Bedding-In Made Easy

Your pads are worn-out. You’ve just swapped them for a fresh new set, aligned your caliper.

Let’s get on the bike and go for a ride!

Wait, it’s not that easy. First, you need to bed your brake pads in, so you get a perfect mating surface between your brake pads and your rotor. This will help getting a predictable and constant feeling when braking.

Select a Controlled Environment

Choose a traffic-free area, such as an empty parking lot, where you can safely test your brakes. A place with a bit of slope will help not overheating your legs.

First (Gentle) Step

Start riding at a slow pace (15km/h – 10mph) and apply the brakes gently (until you almost stop) to initiate the bedding-in process.

Repeat this 15 times while gradually increasing braking force with each cycle, giving the pads and rotor time to adapt and form an optimal friction surface.

Cool Down Period

After a few cycles, let the brakes cool down. Avoid sustained, heavy braking during the bedding-in process.

Second (Less Gentle) Step

Start riding at a medium pace (25km/h – 15mph) and repeat the first step.

Repeat this 15 times while gradually increasing braking force with each cycle.

Assess Performance

Test your brakes under various conditions, including different speeds and road surfaces, to ensure consistent and effective braking.

General Tips

Be Patient: Proper bedding-in takes time, so be patient and go through the process thoroughly.


Avoid Sudden Stops: During the bedding-in process, refrain from sudden and aggressive stops, as this can lead to uneven pad material transfer.


Monitor Brake Feel: Pay attention to the feel of your brakes. A well-bedded brake system should offer a smooth and progressive feel without any juddering or grabbing.

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