Brakes are one of the most critical components of your bike—whether you're tackling steep descents, navigating technical trails, or just cruising through the city, having properly maintained brakes ensures your safety and performance. This guide covers everything you need to know about replacing and maintaining your brake system at home.
Brakes - CRP Education Page
Everything You Need to Know to Keep Your Brakes in Top Shape
Brake Rotors
What even is a brake rotor?
Your brake rotors play a key role in stopping power and heat dissipation. Over time, they wear down or get contaminated, leading to reduced performance and unwanted noise. Read more to see how to keep them in check.
How to Install Brake Rotors 🔧
Whether you're upgrading your rotors or replacing worn ones, proper installation is crucial for smooth braking. Learn how to correctly remove and install disc brake rotors:
➡️ Watch the step-by-step guide
Brake Rotor Screeching? Here’s How to Fix It 🔊
Nothing is more frustrating than noisy brakes. Misalignment, contamination, or improper bedding-in can cause screeching. Learn how to fine-tune your rotors for silent and efficient braking:
➡️ Fix your rotor noise here
Brake Pads
Brake pads wear out over time, and replacing them at the right moment is key to maintaining stopping power.
When and How to Replace Your Brake Pads 🛑
Don’t wait until you hear metal-on-metal grinding! Learn the signs that it’s time to replace your brake pads and follow this step-by-step guide to swapping them out:
➡️ Learn how to replace your brake pads
Brake Calipers
Calipers house your brake pads and control braking force. While most casual riders won’t need to replace their calipers often, maintaining them is still important.
When and How to Replace Your Brake Calipers (Including Bleeding Your Brakes) ⚙️
Replacing or bleeding brake calipers is often best left to a professional bike shop, but if you're comfortable doing it yourself, here’s how:
➡️ Check out this guide on brake caliper servicing
Additional Information
Read more about maintaining your brakes, the difference between brakes, and how to ask us questions if you have any!
Hydraulic Brakes vs. Mechanical Brakes
Which braking system is right for you? Learn the key differences between hydraulic and mechanical disc brakes and how they impact performance, maintenance, and cost.
➡️ Read the full breakdown here
Hydraulic Brake Maintenance & Longevity
Hydraulic brakes require periodic maintenance to stay in peak condition. Regular bleeding, pad replacement, and fluid checks help prevent brake fade and maintain stopping power. Stay tuned for an in-depth guide on keeping your hydraulic brakes working like new!
Need More Help?
If you're unsure about any part of the brake replacement process, we always recommend consulting a professional bike mechanic. However, with the right tools and guidance, you can confidently maintain and upgrade your braking system at home.
👉 Looking for replacement brake components? Shop brake parts now