Thursday, September 4, 2025

Changing your brake pads on your mountain bike


The two videos attached, show the process, one with a Shimano system the other with a SRAM.

I created the two videos below to show you how it's done.  

Watch the video and read the instructions below carefully before starting the process on your own.  Do the work on your own bike and finish with a feeling of accomplishment. The process is pretty simple. Just take your time. 



So, you're ready to hit the trails, but before you do, it's essential to ensure your mountain bike's brakes are in top condition.

 I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process.

First things first, gather your tools and a set of compatible brake pads for your bike.

I’m using the TraxFactory Stomper Compound pads. These pads are high quality and made for numerous braking systems, including Magura, SRAM, Hayes, and Shimano. Check the website for the make and model of your brakes to ensure you get the right set of pads. 



Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Before we begin, make sure you have all your tools ready: new brake pads specific to your bike's brake system, Allen keys or screwdrivers, a rag or paper towel, rubbing alcohol or brake cleaner, a small brush, and pliers if needed.


Step 2: Remove the Wheel, this is optional depending upon how easy or hard it may be to get to your brake pads. 

I  will start by removing the wheel, in this case the front wheel for the example,  to give yourself more space to work. This step is not always necessary but can make the process easier.


Step 3: Remove the Old Brake Pads

Locate the brake pads and the retention mechanism. It could be a bolt or pin.

Use the appropriate tool to loosen and remove the retaining hardware.

Slide out the old brake pads from the brake caliper.


Step 4: Clean the Brake Caliper

The caliper may need to be pushed back, to allow the pads, now thicker being they are new.  Use a plastic tire lever to ease them back without damaging them. “Do not use a metal tool of any kind” or a screwdriver, as this could damage the caliper and piston(s). 

Keep the new pads clean and avoid touching them with your hands as the oils in your skin can contaminate the pads, not allowing them to perform their best.  Some type of rubber glove with help from the oils from your hand touching the new pads. 


-Clean the brake caliper thoroughly using rubbing alcohol and a small brush. Remove any dirt, oil, or debris that could affect braking performance.


During this entire time when the pads have been removed, DO NOT squeeze the brake lever on your handlebars! 


Step 5: Install the New Brake Pads


Take your new brake pads and insert them into the brake caliper.

Make sure to keep the spring attached to them, that is how the pads return to their position after applying. 


Ensure they are correctly positioned and align with the braking surface.

Reinstall the retaining bolt or pin to secure the new brake pads in place.


Step 6: Adjust if Necessary


Check the alignment of the brake pads with the rim or disc rotor.

Make any necessary adjustments using the adjustment screws on the brake caliper to ensure even contact.

To recenter the pads after installation, loosen the brake housing, then while applying the brake, tighten the housing bolts down. 

Let go of the brake lever and the pads should now be centered on the rotor. 


Step 7: Reinstall the Wheel


If you removed the wheel, securely reinstall it onto the bike.


Step 8: Test the Brakes


Squeeze the brake lever to test the brakes.

Spin the wheel and check for any rubbing or uneven braking.

Make further adjustments if necessary to optimize brake performance.


Step 9: Bedding-in Process (Optional but Recommended)


Optionally, go for a gentle ride, applying the brakes lightly to allow the new pads to bed into the rotor surface.


Step 10: Final Checks


Double-check all bolts and pins to ensure they are tightened securely.

Verify that the brake pads are clean and free from any contamination.



And there you have it! You've successfully changed the brake pads on your mountain bike. Now you're ready to hit the trails with confidence.


Follow these simple instructions for the other set of brake pads and you’re done.  


Make sure you do some research and find out the best pads, size shape and material to fit your brake system. 








Thursday, January 18, 2024

2024, How it's starting

 We are three weeks in to 2024. I am one race into a series around the state of Arizona. The MBAA.  Last weekend was the first race. In my age group/category I took 11th place out of the 24 people in it. The course was two laps of a ten mile course.  My second of the two laps I was about a minute slower, and I was happy for that. I felt strong the whole time.  

Looking forward to the next race. 



I am excited for 2024 as there will be more mountain bike races and opportunities around the mountain bike community. 

Thursday, May 25, 2023

MuckyNutz MugGuard Rear

 



MuckyNutz MugGuard Rear, shown both with the short and long extension. Comes in a great carry along pouch, so when the weather turns bad, you can easily put them on. Let me know your thought on these. Thank you to MuckyNutz for creating these much needed rear MugGuard for use in the sloppy roads and trails. Check them out and order yours here https://tinyurl.com/muckynutzmugguardrear

Wednesday, May 10, 2023

The Water H, hydration water bottle


 


Monitor your hydration level be using this simple and easy to use Water Bottle


The Water H, hydration water bottle. The bottle connects to an app on your phone monitoring not only the water you are drinking, but the purity of the water. The TDS, a total dissolved solids, letting you know parts per million how clean the water is you are drinking. The app is available for both Apple and Android users. The bottle charges with the provided pad. The bottle has to be hand washed and has a capacity of 18 ounces.


Tuesday, January 10, 2023

A look back at Dawn to Dusk, a race in early December 2022

 I had a blast, competing on a team of four adults while my son was on a team of four juniors. A fun flowing 16 mile loop at McDowell Mountain Regional Park here in Arizona. 

A great time with fellow coaches from the high school season I coach. Looking forward to competing next year again. 


My son's second of two laps, finishing in the dark. 

My son's second of two laps, finishing in the dark. 

My son's first lap of two. 

My son's first lap of two. 

Second lap, feeling better in the warmer sun. 

Third and last lap of my day.

Third and last lap of my day. 

First lap, started at 7am, a little cold. 


Thursday, January 5, 2023

2023.....

 Looking forward to a great 2023.  Many goals are getting set.  I will update on what happen in the fall and early winter of 2022.  It was jam packed full of activity. 


Stay tuned