Bedding disc brakesUpdated a month ago

How to Bed In Your Disc Brakes for Optimal Performance

All Vvolt ebikes have hydraulic disc brakes for smooth, consistent, powerful performance. When new, all disc brakes need to undergo a bedding procedure for the best performance. Failing to bed your disc brakes will result in reduced braking performance, and that's a bummer! 

What is bedding a disc brake?

It’s like introducing your brake pads to your brake rotor in a friendly way, ensuring they work together seamlessly! Here's how it works: 

1. Heat Activation:

•    Friction generates heat, conditioning both pads and rotors.  
•    Heat softens pad material, allowing it to adhere to the rotor.  

2. Material Transfer (Pad Deposition):  

•    Repeated braking deposits a thin layer of pad material onto the rotor.  
•    Ensures a consistent braking surface, reducing uneven wear.  

3. Smoothing Out the Rotor Surface:  

•    Removes machining marks and imperfections from new rotors.  
•    Improves pad-to-rotor contact for smoother braking.  

4. Preventing Glazing and Squealing: 

•    Avoids uneven pad material buildup that causes noise and weak braking.  
•    Ensures uniform pad material is transferred across the rotor surface.  

5. Maximizing Braking Power and Modulation:

•    Increases stopping power by improving pad grip.  
•    Enhances modulation for smoother, more controlled braking.  

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Find an Open Space:

• Head to a flat, open area where you can safely ride around without traffic. You'll do some controlled stopping.  

2. Get Up to Speed:

• Pick up the pace and reach a comfortable cruising speed—nothing too fast, just enough to feel natural.  

3. Brake Gradually and Firmly: 

• Apply consistent, firm pressure on the brake lever to slow down without coming to a complete stop. Gradually reduce speed and release the brakes just before stopping completely. Avoid locking up the wheels or skidding.  

4. Repeat the Process: 

• Ride around, pick up speed again, and repeat the braking process 10–20 times per brake (front and rear separately). This helps transfer a thin layer of brake pad material onto the rotor for a strong, even bond.  

5. Cool Down: 

• After completing the process, ride gently for a few minutes without heavy braking. This allows the brakes to cool down and helps set the pad material.