mad question: brakes & brake pads

[SatNavSaysStraightOn]

I don't really get it - How did two descents do that to a brake pad? What difference will cartridge pads make? Isn't there something wrong with the rims rather than the brakes? If there is nothing wrong with the rims then isn't it simply a question of getting quality pads, cartridge or otherwise?

I suspect it was the 700m of combined technical descents in very muddy conditions that went completely through 1 of the front pads and almost through the other front pad and both rear pads (rears because that was all he was left with to stop the bike). the pads were partly worn beforehand and seem to have been a very soft compound that has worn away in no time at all. He was also carrying a pannier which will have added to his weight as well.

The rims are now totally shot and have as such just been dismantled. There is more than a 1mm deep gash in the rim wall now.

it is like this pretty much all of the way around...

As for cartridge brakes, we just prefer that type and have never had any issues with them rusting and if they were going to, they would have done so on our 12month tour given the conditions we had at times. Also my road bike takes exactly the same pads so I can keep spares to a minimium. (before you comment we live rurally, I am pushing what a road bike can do at times, or at least where it should go and have to wash all bikes each and every time we use them becuase of the state of the local lane we happen to live at the end of).

 

[Graham]

OK, see where you're coming from. Shame the brake block (or rather the exposed metal stud) has knackered the rim, expensive business this cycling.

 

[SatNavSaysStraightOn]

OK, see where you're coming from. Shame the brake block (or rather the exposed metal stud) has knackered the rim, expensive business this cycling.

tell me about it, maintaining 6 bikes is nearly as bad as 1 car (but far more enjoyable!)

 

[GlenBen]

At least you can do the labour yourself on bikes

 

[SatNavSaysStraightOn]

At least you can do the labour yourself on bikes

I do a reasonable amount on the car as well - thing such as locks failing, filters etc, all the diagnostics and some replacements get done by me as well... such as the boot failing to lock or even close properly - gravity was the only thing holding it down - boot solenoid had failed so purchased a 2ndhand one and fitted that myself, cost £12 plus an afternoon of fiddling around! might even get around to putting the cover back on the inside of the boot soon

 

[GlenBen]

I envy you there then, Ive never really tried to learn, but I can just about change a wheel and give it a wash. Anything else and its straight to the garage.