The short life of a brake pad

I just put new brake pads on my 02 vfr after about 20k miles. The pads seemed to have life left in them, but I had lost some feel compared to when they were new and decided to invest. I also got about 20k miles out of my first set of brakes.

I am curious how many miles other people are getting out of a set of brake pads. Does 20k miles seem like it is too soon for a new set?

 

Well it just happens I replaced my brake pads the weekend just gone. They had about 29K miles on them. Like you, the old ones were starting to feel wooden - I can certainly feel the difference now!

The old (and original) pads still had plenty of meat on them. The owners handbook suggests replacing them once they have worn down to the bottom of the grooves but I couldn't see myself being able to last another 6 months - at least.

The only issue now is making sure I 'recalibrate' my brain to take into account the extra bite the new pads (EBC) are giving - especially if a "oh crap" moment comes along!

If your prepared to change pads and wear the cost when the performance starts to drop then its a personal preference I guess. If new pads equate to shorter stopping distances - go for safety.

Cheers!

 

I also have been "practicing" with my new pads. It always amazes me how new a bike can feel with new parts. When I put new tires on, I felt the same. Who needs a new bike? Just put on some new brakes and tires, and change the fliuds... Presto!

 

What does new pads usually cost? Are they cheap enough to change all the time. My front pads stop the bike but I don't get a grip on them like I get in a car. I don't think that they will lockup. I guess that is a good thing being a bike. But the rear wheel locks up all the time.

 

I think they were about $40 per pair of pads (two pairs needed in front, one pair in rear.) Not too expensive if I get about 20k miles out of a set. I really want to learn how to do the change myself. I bought a book that should walk me through it. Now I have to read it.