Brake pads: OEM 3 different pads vs EBC one pad fits all

It's time for new brake pads on my '04. I don't have any problem with the stock brakes, they work fine for my riding style and skill level, but I've heard so much about the EBC Double-H pads that I figured I should look into them. While comparing prices I noticed Honda uses different pads for front left, right, and rear, while EBC use the same pads for all three positions. Since all three are dimensionally the same, I assume the difference in the Honda pads is in the compounds. Will EBC pads upset the balance of the linked braking system? Are they worth the added cost?

 

no, and yes.

 

The compound in the Honda pads are all the same, an "HH" rated semi metallic. The difference is in the various spring backing plates and anti vibration fitment. The after market pads are all the same because the basic shape and size of the three applications are very close each other. The Honda pads have subtle differences between the three applications. I just changed my pads and after some research I chose the Honda pads, they work great for me, quiet and plenty grippy.

 

I went with the EBC HH and will never go back to the Honda pads, much better braking proformance with the EBC.

 

I figured that out yesterday after pulling my OEM pads. They are all marked HH and have different shims. I also found that they are in better condition than my first inspection led me to believe, so I'm not going to replace them until next year.

 

You'll probably wear out those EBC pads quicker than you would the Honda pads.
Give up some extra grip for overall life, depends on what you want to trade off.

 

I'm not so worried about the pads, but I don't want to wear the rotors out any sooner than necessary.