I replaced my OEM brake pads with EBC Extreme performance ones to improve braking performance. The braking has improved; especially the initial bite, but now the brake disc is getting really hot. No discoloration or anything, just too hot to touch and it takes a while to cool down.
I can't remember that the discs ever got that hot with the OEM pads (not that I'm in the habit of checking their temperature or anything).
The reservoir is not overfilled so I guess the brake fluid has enough room to expand and don't think that should be a problem (maybe a good idea to add that check to the FAQ).
Is this 'normal'?
Braking is all about friction...
more friction = more heat.
If there is no discoloring I'd ride and be happy.
That said, the rotors on both of my bikes discolor slightly at the track, so that in itself isn't necessarily bad.
+1 That's how brakes work...
mine can get plenty hot just doing a stop n go hop around the hood. And remember your perception of hot vs a mechanical tolerance is way different. Humans are really weak and weedy when it comes to temps.
If you're not having problems like fade, I wouldn't stress.
Thx, I was worrying that maybe these new pads would generate to much heat for the OEM rotors. Don't want the brake system to overheat and lockup. For now I'll enjoy the improvement and keep checking regularly.
As long as you didn't play with the bleed back adjustment the fluid will be able to expand into the res and all will be good.
From experience - you'd know if things were not right. The brakes won't lock up all of a sudden in a situation where the bleed back has been closed off. You'd notice a stiffness in the lever and a feeling light the bike is working really hard. Enough of this and yeah it'd lock up. But you should notice something's a miss before that.
my rear disk is always hot after a ride, unlike my fronts. I thought it was me riding the brake, but no. never noticed any brake fade or discoloration so I just deal with it. been like that for 2 seasons now with no problems.