Disc brake pads explained: sintered vs semi-metallic

Which brake pads do you need for your bike? Let's go over the various differences and try to make this easy for you!

Here at HKT we stock the two most popular options. Sintered and Semi metal. Although they both do a great job of preventing you from hitting a tree, over shooting a jump and looping out a manual there are a few subtle differences. 

All bicycle disc brakes, whether hydraulic or mechanical, operate in the same way, by pushing two disc brake pads against the side of the rotor to slow or bring your bike to a halt.  Over time, the pads on your bike will get worn down, so you need to check regularly for pad wear before replacing them. We offer a subscription service which takes all the guess work away so you never miss a ride again.

As a general guide, you should aim to replace your disc brake pads once the layer of braking material reaches 1.5mm or less in thickness. Most of the staff here at HKT choose to replace them every 3 months either way. Naturally, the more you ride the quicker you're going to burn through brake pads. 

So, which brake pads suit you and your riding style the best? Here are our brake pad descriptions. Of course you need any help we're always available to assist you!

SINTERED BRAKE PADS
Sintered disc brake pads offer the highest levels on longevity. This compound is created by compressing metallic particles together under high pressures. Sintered brake pads are known for performing specifically well in harsh conditions. Our metallic composition helps them last well in wet weather conditions where grit and grime can wear through softer compound brake pads quicker. Because they are, at heart, a metallic compound they deal well with high temperatures, the kind that are often associated with steep or fast riding, for this reason they are often the go to choice for enduro or downhill racers.

SEMI METAL BRAKE PADS
Semi-metallic or semi metal disc brake pads are designed to hit the sweet spot between organic and sintered brake pads. Semi metal brake pads are manufactured from an organic compound that is infused with metallic fibres. Our organic compound allows the pad to bed in quickly and offer great braking performance. The metallic friction compound adds longevity to the pad and also helps to ensure that the braking performance is consistent even on longer descents. Our semi metal pads are known for performing well in all trail conditions, the softer organic compound helps rotors last a little longer than a standard sintered brake pad.

Our semi metal disc brakes pads are kind on brake rotors and kind on your environment (aka low noise)

We hope this helps!