How many of you guys have replaced your brake pads? What replacement pads did you use?

I've read that better pads gives our Hornet's a little extra stopping power.

Sneaky Steve...is it hard to replace brake pads yourself?? Or is it something that's better left for the dealer to do?

Brake pads are easy. If you can change the ones on your car, you can easily take care of the ones on your bike. They're just smaller and easier to get to. I've never done them on these bikes, but as far as i know you just pop them out the back of the caliper, compress the piston, and install the new ones. But if you haven't done it before you'll need someone to walk you through it. But it's definately something you can do yourself. If you're interested i'd be happy to describe the process...but i'm sure Steve will make a video or something so my description would probably be superfluous and vague in comparison. :roll: :wink:

I did the front pads already (was getting some squeal on stops) and it took about 15 minutes. I'm no wrench and this was one of the easiest jobs I've done on a bike. The service manual and a good torque wrench are really helpful.

Moto ive heard that it is best to use oe pads

i have replaced the rear pads, no big deal, got oem pads for about $25, fronts will need done soon

I think that will be my next video. Like the others said it's pretty easy.

Just don't forget to pump up your breaks before you take off. :lol: Or you might be in for a little surprise!

I don't think you'll need a video, but I"ll make one next tuesday.

You can't go wrong with stock. If you want a little better performance the EBC HH pads are the best around. They may wear your rotors a little more though.

Yes, better pad will give better braking but they won't last as long and may wear out the rotor faster. But not like anything to worry about type of faster. Don't go with the Super High end pad as I think they need to warm up before they have full stopping power (maybe someone knows better about that).

Easy job and almost no tools needed (flat head screwdriver and some pliers basically) front and back should take about an hour to do total WITH changing the brake fluid. I have one of those nifty hand pumps that helps a bunch with doing the job solo.

Also hear Stainless Steal braided brake lines improve the feel and reduce the fade when doing lots of heavy braking...it's going to be my upgrade for the year. Looks like a $150 investment.

http://street.parts-unlimited.com/2/1325/2564924

another little trick for extra cooling...
kalecoauto.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=1 (http://kalecoauto.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=1)