Replace worn brake pads
Remove worn bicycle brake pads and fit new ones in the correct position.
Goal: Fit new brake pads so they contact the rim correctly and stop the bicycle effectively.
Minimum practice time: 0.5 hours
Materials needed
- • Replacement brake pads (correct type)
- • Hex key set
- • Isopropyl alcohol
- • Clean cloth
Safety first
- ! Never use brake pads that have worn past the wear indicator
- ! Clean any oil off the calliper before fitting new pads — oil reduces braking power severely
- ! Test the brakes thoroughly before returning the bike
Steps6 total
- 1
Check pad wear indicator
Look at the wear groove on each brake pad. If the groove has disappeared, the pad must be replaced.
Done when:You have confirmed which pads need replacing.
Why:Worn pads have less friction and can damage the rim.
- 2
Remove the old brake pads
Undo the pad fixing bolt or pull out the pad clip. Slide the old pad out and discard it.
Done when:The old pads are fully removed from the calliper.
Why:Old worn pads cannot be reused safely.
- 3
Clean the calliper arms
Wipe the calliper arms with a clean cloth and a small amount of isopropyl alcohol.
Done when:The calliper surfaces are clean and free of oil.
Why:Oil on the calliper prevents pads from gripping properly.
- 4
Fit the new brake pads
Slide the new pad into position. Tighten the fixing bolt or push the clip home firmly.
Done when:The new pads are fully seated and secure.
Why:Loose pads can shift during braking and cause accidents.
- 5
Adjust pad position
Position each pad so it hits the rim flat. Set it 2 mm below the tyre edge. Set a slight toe-in.
Done when:Each pad contacts the rim squarely and does not touch the tyre.
Why:Correct position gives maximum braking power without tyre damage.
- 6
Test braking effectiveness
Squeeze each brake lever firmly. Walk the bike and test each brake. The brake should stop the wheel immediately.
Done when:Each brake stops the wheel cleanly when the lever is squeezed.
Why:A final test confirms the new pads work correctly and the bike is safe.
Common mistakes to avoid
- × Fitting pads that are too high — they touch the tyre sidewall
- × Not cleaning the calliper before fitting new pads
- × Forgetting to adjust cable tension after changing pads
- × Using the wrong type of pad for the rim material
Supervisor checklist
Confirm each item is completed before signing off.
- Old pads were worn past the wear indicator
- Calliper cleaned before new pads were fitted
- New pads are the correct type
- Pad position is correct — on the rim, 2 mm below the tyre
- Braking confirmed effective after fitting
Evidence required
- • Braking confirmed effective by supervisor
- • Old pads shown to confirm they were worn out
Track this work card with a learner
Tick off steps, add evidence and register hours in Bloeiindex.