At what thickness should disc brake pads be replaced?

Replace them when the pad material drops below 0.5 mm, or about 2.5 mm including the metal backing plate (Shimano figure). Never ride on the backing plate: it scores the rotor.

How many kilometres do bike brake pads last?

On dry roads, 1,500 to 3,000 km. Riding a mountain bike in mud or in the mountains, sometimes under 500 km. On an e-bike, expect about 30% less because of the extra weight.

When should the brake rotor be replaced?

When its thickness falls below the minimum engraved on the rotor, usually 1.5 mm for a rotor that is 1.8 mm when new.

When should you replace your brake pads?

Worn pads increase your stopping distance and can damage the rotor. Here is how to know when to replace them.

1. Check the thickness

Disc brakes: replace below 0.5 mm of pad material (about 2.5 mm in total with the backing plate).
Rim brake blocks: replace once the grooves have disappeared.
Look down through the top of the caliper with a torch, removing the wheel if needed.

2. Tell-tale signs

A metallic grinding noise when braking: the backing plate is touching the rotor.
The lever pulls further towards the bar than before.
Weaker braking despite a clean rotor.

3. Guidelines by riding style

Dry road / city: 1,500 to 3,000 km.
Gravel: 1,000 to 2,000 km.
MTB in mud / mountains: 300 to 1,000 km.
E-bike: about 30% less than the same bike without assistance.

These are rough figures: weather, weight and the length of descents make a big difference to lifespan.

4. Safety

If you have any doubt about your brakes, have the bike checked by a workshop before riding.

Track it automatically

MonSuiviVélo estimates pad wear from your mileage and bike type, and warns you before it is too late. The photo scanner also helps you check the thickness.

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