I just bought a new road bike, but I've encountered problems like not being able to stop and strange noises!

These issues might be related to the pads and brakes. Today, I'll talk about how these two factors affect your new road bike's braking system.

Factors Affecting Braking Performance

Factor 1: Release agent on the brake pads

A thin layer of release agent is applied to the surface of new brake pads to make them easier to remove from the mold during the manufacturing process.

▲TRP Brake Pads

Factor 2: Anti-rust oil on the disc

Discs are coated with a thin layer of anti-rust oil after manufacturing and before leaving the factory to prevent them from rusting if left unused for an extended period.

Combining the first and second reasons, the release agent on the disc and the anti-rust oil on the disc make them look like two smooth "mirrors." When you brake, they slip, and your road bike won't stop.

Factor 3: Contact surfaces not optimized

Since the lining and discs of a new road bike are brand new and unused, their contact surfaces are not in optimal condition, which affects braking performance.

If both sides are not broken in, the surface structure will be slightly wavy. After a certain period of break-in, the contact surfaces of the disc and ring will become smooth, and the braking performance will reach an ideal state.

Recommended Break-in Method:

When riding your road bike, press both brake levers simultaneously, or alternately press the left and right brake levers to speed up the break-in of the disc and disc, improving braking feel and performance.

 ▲ICAN A18 Road Bike