What we expect from brake pads is ... braking.
Let's add - effective braking. Brake pads and tires are elements that have a decisive impact on the safety of a motorcyclist.
What blocks? Well, each manufacturer offers two types of pads - organic and sintered metal (so-called sintermetal). What does it mean ?
The facings of organic blocks are made of carbon-based resins.
Harder particles are embedded in this soft resin binder, which significantly influence the braking effect (power). These particles are powdered metals, primarily iron and
copper. By weight, the amount of metals in the lining of an organic block is from 20 to 60 percent.
The advantages of organic bricks are two:
- low price
- general softness (the low wear stereotype is common, see below*)
Disadvantages of organic bricks:
- very cut braking power
- low durability
- poor heat dissipation
- the associated tendency to fading (swelling of the linings)
- decreasing efficiency with increasing temperature
- THEY ARE NOT SUITABLE FOR SPORTS USE
All manufacturers (including BMW) install ONLY SINTERMETAL brake pads for heavy and powerful motorcycles. Some reputable manufacturers of some pads in the organic version do not produce at all. Why ?
Linings of sintermetal blocks are made of metal sinters, where the main component is copper and its alloys. After compacting the powders of these metals, the lining material is obtained, which is applied on a support plate, often also copper-plated, to obtain very good thermal conductivity. Sintermetal pads are often called gold because of the color of the linings and plates. Sintered metal linings work with stainless steel brake discs (99% of modern motorcycles have such discs).
Advantages of blocks made of sintered metals (sintermetal):
- HIGH coefficient of friction
- very good thermal conductivity
- great durability
- resistance to high temperatures
- hence resistance to fading
- constant efficiency over a wide range of operating temperatures
Disadvantages of sintered metal pads:
- quite high price
- slightly higher disc wear (compared to organic pads)
* We expect braking performance from pads and brakes. We expect maximum grip from tires in all conditions. Tires wear out (abrasion) just like pads and discs. However, in normal operation, disc wear occurs after several sets of brake pads have been worn. Thus, the discs are replaced at least once every few years. Savings on the price of organic pads are apparent, with greater durability of pads made of sintered metals. Question - is it worth saving on the purchase of PLN 50 to have weaker brakes? We all had emergency brakes. Just imagine driving on the highway when suddenly you hit a traffic jam. Or in the city someone suddenly leaves the subordinate. When 5 meters are missing, you will find yourself in the hospital, your career will collapse, you will lose your health, only then you will think - why did I buy pads cheaper by PLN 60?
