How to Bed Mountain Bike Brakes for Maximum Stopping Power
Bedding (or breaking in) mountain bike brakes involves gradually applying and releasing the brakes to transfer heat to the braking surface and deposit brake pad material onto the rotor. This helps to improve braking performance and prevent brake squeal. Start by finding a safe, flat and quiet area to cycle and apply the brakes gently a few times to get them working. Then ride downhill at a moderate speed and apply the brakes firmly but not hard, releasing them before coming to a complete stop. Repeat this process, gradually increasing speed and force applied to the brakes until they are bedded in.