Squeaks & rattle sounds = OK. Crunching & grinding = Bad.
Listen to your bike – it might just be trying to tell you something!
Riding with completely obliterated (metal-to-metal) bicycle brake pads destroys stopping power, can gouge and warp expensive steel rotors (which will be costly to replace), and risks catastrophic brake failure.
The brake pads on your e-bike provide mechanical friction, allowing them to clamp onto the metal rotor. 1000-3000 km is the likely lifespan. Even if you have a fairly new e-bike, you still need to check your brakes and have the brake pads changed when needed.
Several factors can affect the lifespan of your brake pads:
- Riding Style: Heavy, aggressive braking on steep hills wears the brake pads down much faster than flat, smooth cruising.
- Weather and Terrain: Mud, grit, and wet conditions act like sandpaper on bike brake pads, cutting down their total lifespan.
- Rider and Bike Weight: Heavier loads (such as loaded cargo bikes or heavier e-bikes) put excessive friction and stress on the pads.
Tips to make brake pads last longer:
- Avoid dragging brakes: Try to brake firmly and briefly rather than resting on the levers down long hills.
- Keep rotors clean: Clean off oily residue or built-up grit that causes uneven wear.
