How to Replace Bike Brake Pads at Home (Step by Step)

Replacing your bike’s brake pads might sound like a job for a mechanic, but once you’ve done it once, you’ll realise it’s as straightforward as making a cup of tea — just a lot more useful. And in the UK, where rain, grit, mud and steep descents wear brake pads out much faster than anywhere else, knowing how to replace them yourself is practically a cycling superpower.

Whether you’re commuting through the busy streets of Manchester, tackling the Peaks on a weekend, or riding wet canal paths in winter, fresh brake pads mean confidence, control and safety.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to replacing your brake pads at home — plus why many riders choose Laxzo brake pads for their durability and budget-friendly pricing.

Before You Start: How to Know Your Pads Need Replacing

Most UK riders spot worn pads when they hear:
• A scraping or grinding noise
• A squeak that won’t quit
• Weak or spongy braking
• A lever pulling too close to the handlebar

But the proper check is simple:

Look at the pads — if they’re thinner than 2–3mm, it’s time to replace them.

This applies to both disc brakes and rim brakes.

What You’ll Need

Nothing fancy — just basic tools:
• Allen key set
• Tyre lever or flat screwdriver
• Replacement brake pads (Laxzo has budget-friendly options for disc, rim and V-brakes)
• Isopropyl alcohol (for cleaning)
• Gloves (optional, but stops your hands getting covered in brake dust)

Now let’s get stuck in.

Step 1: Remove the Wheel

For both rim and disc brakes, removing the wheel makes the whole process far easier.
• Open the quick-release or loosen the thru-axle
• Lift the bike slightly and remove the wheel
• Set it aside — ideally somewhere clean

If you’re working in a UK garden shed, kitchen, or even the hallway (we’ve all done it), avoid placing your wheel on muddy ground.

Step 2: Identify Your Brake System

There are two main types:

Disc Brakes
Found on most modern MTBs, hybrids and road bikes.

Rim Brakes (V-brake or caliper)
Found on older road bikes, commuters and budget bikes.

The replacement steps are slightly different, so let’s break each down.

Step 3: Replacing Disc Brake Pads

A) Remove the Old Pads
• Look at the caliper (the metal housing around the rotor).
• Locate the pin or retaining bolt that holds the pads in place.
• Unscrew or unclip it.
• Slide the old pads out.

If they’re covered in glazing, rust or oil, you made the right decision replacing them.

B) Push the Pistons Back

Using a tyre lever or plastic tool:
• Gently push the pistons apart
• This creates space for your new pads

Never use a metal screwdriver — it can damage the pistons.

C) Insert the New Pads
• Slot the new pads in with the spring between them
• Ensure they sit flat and aligned

Laxzo’s disc brake pads come with easy-fit springs, which makes this step much smoother.

D) Refit the Retaining Pin
• Tighten it securely
• Make sure nothing rattles

Your new pads should now sit neatly inside the caliper.

Step 4: Replacing Rim Brake Pads

Rim brakes are even easier.

A) Release the Brake Arm
• Squeeze the brake arms
• Unhook the cable
• This frees the brake arms to move

B) Remove the Old Pads

Each pad is attached with a single bolt.
• Unscrew the bolt
• Slide the pad out

Sometimes grime or rust builds up — normal for UK conditions.

C) Install the New Pads
• Slide in the new pad
• Align the pad with the rim (not too high, not too low)
• Slight toe-in angle reduces squeaking

Tighten the bolt but don’t overdo it.

D) Reconnect the Cable
• Hook the cable back in
• Test the lever feel

You should feel an instant improvement.

Step 5: Clean Your Braking Surface

This step makes a huge difference.

Use isopropyl alcohol to wipe:
• Disc rotors
• Wheel rims (for rim brakes)

This removes oil, grit and wet-road residue.

Avoid touching the braking surface afterwards — oils from your fingers contaminate pads easily.

Step 6: Reinstall the Wheel

• Pass it back into the dropouts
• Loosen and then replace the quick-release or thru-axle
• Check that the wheel is positioned correctly

Spin the wheel to check for scrapping on anything.

Step 7: Bed In Your New Pads

The necessity of this operation is often disregarded.

To bed pads in:
• Ride at a moderate speed
• Slowly brake 15–20 times
• Increase braking force gradually

This process eliminates residue from manufacturing and helps to develop proper grip for the pads which is very important during the rainy season in the UK.

Step 8: Test Ride

Ride for a moment and observe the following:
• Make sure the brakes are working on a quiet street
• Look for rubbing
• Confirm that the lever has a firm feel
• Listen for grinding noise (this is a bad sign)

New pads should give you the impression of being strong and smooth.

Why UK Riders Use Laxzo Brake Pads

Laxzo’s pads have become a favourite among UK cyclists because they:
• Last longer in wet and gritty conditions
• Offer strong braking in rain
• Are far more affordable than big retail brands
• Come in options for disc, rim, MTB, hybrid, road and commuter bikes
• Are easy to install at home
• Have fast UK delivery

For riders who maintain their bikes themselves, Laxzo is an ideal place to source pads, tools and accessories without overspending.

Final Thoughts — Replacing Pads Is Easy, Safe and Saves Money

Replacing brake pads isn’t a job to fear — it’s one of the most empowering bits of bike maintenance you can learn.

And with UK weather chewing through pads faster than anywhere else, knowing how to do it:
• Saves money
• Keeps you safe
• Reduces workshop visits
• Makes your bike feel brand new

With strong, UK-ready brake pads from Laxzo and this simple guide, you’re fully equipped to keep your bike performing at its best — rain, shine or perpetual drizzle.