I've seen several different descriptors for disc brake pads: Metallic, Semi-Metallic, and Organic. What is the difference between these types of disc brake pads?
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Here is a similar question, that is not getting any attention. Maybe we can team up to fight the lack of knowledge.– VoracCommented Aug 26, 2013 at 15:46
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1 Answer
Youll run into two types of metallic pads- sintered metallic and semi-metallic. The term "metallic" without any modifier gets used for a couple of reasons- a) many manufacturers don't offer both varieties of metallic pads for a given brake, so the type is implicit, and b) lots of folks don't know the difference or think the terms are interchangeable. They are similar, but different:
Sintered metallic pads offer the best stopping power, but also cause the most rotor wear and can make the most noise, especially when wet. They are also the least affected by adverse conditions. Sintered metallic are typically used in downhill/freeride applications, but can be used for less demanding riding types as well. Depending on the setup, sintered pads can feel "grabby", that is, that they lack modulation at the lever. That problem tends to arise on more powerful brakes with larger rotors though, and both of those factors play towards that perception.
Semi-metallics are a tradeoff between braking performance and pad wear/noise. They still stop very well but can be a little less noisy and cause a little less rotor wear. They may also offer better lever modulation than sintered metallic pads. This pad type can often be found on higher end all-mountain, trail, and cross country oriented brakes, though some manufacturers opt for sintered pads while others may opt for organics.
Organic pads are the kindest to your rotors and typically quitest, but don't offer the same bite as metallic pads. These pads also wear the quickest. This does not mean that they're low end pads though, and depending on conditions, riding style and personal preference they may be a great choice. Organic pads can offer the best lever modulation of the three pad types, but may not stop riders sufficiently in demanding circumstances.
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2I found that my semi-metallic pad / rotor combination was much more venerable to contamination versus sintered metal pads. I found that I had to clean rotors frequently or my braking felt 'jumpy' like the pads engaged on parts of the rotors well, but not other sections. The modulation definitely seems a bit better as a tradeoff. Where as I barely even clean the rotors on my bike that uses disc brakes with sintered pads, and leave my bike covered in mud for weeks at a time, and go back out and ride without cleaning and they still work great every time.– BenzoCommented Jul 29, 2014 at 13:32
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Great answer! What is the recommended pad type for long distance touring? I.e. multiple-week tours?– SSilkCommented May 26, 2015 at 14:03
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@SSilk Organic pads are probably best for road use, where you need modulation much more than stopping power. Commented Jun 24, 2016 at 12:42