How to Properly Break in New Carbon Brake Pads

Maximize Performance and Longevity with Correct Bedding Techniques

Introduction

Installing new carbon brake pads? Don’t hit the hills just yet.
Carbon-specific brake pads require a proper break-in process—also known as “bedding-in”—to perform safely and effectively.
Failing to do so can lead to poor braking power, inconsistent performance, and even damage to your carbon rims.

This guide walks you through the step-by-step process to correctly break in new carbon brake pads, ensuring both safety and longevity for your high-performance wheels.

Why Bedding-In Matters

Carbon rims and brake pads operate differently than aluminum ones. When new pads are installed:

The pad surface is still raw and uneven

The braking surface on the rim lacks friction-enhancing material

Without proper bedding, heat buildup and pad glazing can occur

The goal of bedding-in is to:

Embed a thin, even layer of pad material onto the carbon braking track

Smooth out initial pad irregularities

Stabilize heat buildup under controlled conditions

This process optimizes stopping power and prevents premature wear or squealing.

Step-by-Step: How to Break In Carbon Brake Pads

Step 1: Choose a Safe Road

Find a flat or gently sloped, traffic-free road where you can accelerate and brake repeatedly in a safe environment.

Step 2: Perform Controlled Stops

Start from about 25–30 km/h (15–20 mph), then firmly but not aggressively apply the brakes.
Don’t lock the wheels—just apply steady pressure until almost stopping.
Repeat this 8–10 times, allowing the brakes to cool for a few seconds between stops.

Tip: Alternate front and rear braking to avoid overheating one rim.

Step 3: Increase Heat Gradually

After the initial 10 stops, increase speed to 35–40 km/h (20–25 mph) and repeat braking 5–8 more times, applying firmer pressure.
This gradually raises pad and rim temperature to embed material onto the braking surface.

⚠️ Avoid long, hard descents during this period.

What You’ll Notice

Once broken in, the braking will feel:

Smoother

More responsive

Quieter

With better modulation

A faint gray film on the braking track is normal—this is the deposited pad material, key to optimal performance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake	Why It's a Problem
Skipping the bedding process	Inconsistent braking, premature wear
Braking too hard too early	Pad glazing, overheating
Using carbon pads on alloy rims	Contaminates pad surface
Mixing used pads with new rims	Uneven wear and noise

Final Tips for Longevity

Only use carbon-specific pads for carbon wheels

Keep braking surfaces clean and dry when possible

Replace pads before they wear down to the wear line

Re-bed pads if you swap to a different wheelset or rim brand

Conclusion

Breaking in your carbon brake pads is a quick but crucial process.
By spending just 10–15 minutes properly bedding them, you’ll enjoy safer braking, quieter operation, and longer-lasting performance—especially on fast descents and in race situations.

Whether you're riding Superteam wheels or another high-performance carbon setup, a proper break-in isn't optional—it’s essential.