Fairly new Monster owner, and have been lurking on the forum but not posting much. I have been commuting on my 03 Monster 620 since January and I think my brake pads are nearing the end of their span. Currently at 15K miles and change and I would guess on the original pads.
First, where do you guys order parts from?
Second, my Monster has dual Brembo calipers up front, so I assume I need to order two sets of pads? I mean when you get pads for a car it contains a set for each side, but since not all Monsters are the same I assume I need to order two.
Third, knowing this is a commuter/slight backroads and zero track day bike, any pad suggestions?
Partially answered my own question as I scrolled down and found Monsterparts and the others. Doh!
I assume you are in the US? Yes, try our sponsors like Monsterparts and MotoWheels for example. Yes order a set for each side.
I like the bite of sintered pads, but some prefer the more forgiving nature of organic pads in the wet and on greasy roads, etc. Full spec race pads need to be avoided in your situation as they may not warm up enough for street conditions.
+1.
I suggest to take a look at the chart like this. (CA-cycleworks is also our sponsor.)
http://ca-cycleworks.com/products/brakes/brake-pads (http://ca-cycleworks.com/products/brakes/brake-pads)
What you have to find is the best balance point of
Characteristics ( Linear vs Progressive. Some have strong initial bite, but the braking power does not get stronger as you squeeze the brake lever more. Some have linear characteristics. Some have “gentle†initial bite but the braking power gets progressively stronger as you squeeze the lever more. Read the reviews and find the one that fits your requirement.)
feel (in a way, this is the most important thing. You don't want a set of pads that don't give you enough feed back.)
lifetime span (the brake pad's, not yours)
dust (the less is better )
Note : I did not mention about outright braking power. Because, any name brand (that has been in business for more than a decade) products has enough braking power to lock up the wheels from the speed range that you'd do on the street.
(Otherwise, they wouldn't have been able to be in the business.)
The “feel†and “characteristics†are more important things to consider.
Also, may I suggest to clean up your caliper while you are replacing the pads ?
http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=61878.0 (http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=61878.0)
I would be shocked if you have worn out the oem pads on a 620 monster in 15000 miles, maybe 30000 but 15000 is way early.
Rear pads wear fast if you use them but the 620 is over powered by its brakes so unless you are riding it very hard or riding with the brakes on I do not see it. If you have one side worn out (inner or outer pad not left or right caliper) then you have a stuck piston you need to take care of.
Many flavors of pads out there, pick based on what you want for feel and how much more power you want.