Ceramic rims - can normal brake blocks be used?

jeepie

I am getting some wheels fitted to my bike with ceramic rims. The aim is that they will last a bit longer. I am aware of some people being positive about them, and others not.

What I would like to ask is whether I can use my old brake pads (Kool Stop black ones) on my ceramic rims in order to get full use out of them? Will this damage the rim at all or affect the braking performance if I use non-ceramic blocks?

I assume that brake pad will just wear quicker due to the harder ceramic surface but I just wanted to check this with someone who might know.

maddog 2

no they are fine. They'll wear a bit more but not a big deal unless you live in the Alps.

I run the softer, non-ceramic pads on the rear, to give more feel.

jeepie

Perfect Maddog 2 - cheers. Thanks for the tip about the different feel too, as I like the idea of more feel on the rear for progressive stops!

Looking forward to testing the wheels!

satanas

I've had a pair of Mavic 231 MTB rims since 1992, and have always used the standard Shimano pads. The wheels have been on a few bikes now, but I've never had to replace the pads, despite two trips to the Himalayas, endurance races, etc. What I do notice is that the rims dry out almost instantly when not actually submerged (i.e. underwater in a creek), so wet braking is vastly better. Braking surfaces are still going strong too.

Only reason not to use ceramic rims IMO is if you frequently pretzel rims - that could get expensive!

jeepie

Thanks for the reply santanas. Very interesting stuff. I am really enjoying the new wheels on the bike and I find the braking absolutely excellent with standard pads. I haven't tried them in the wet yet as the weather has been so lovely.......but will let you know! Cheers J

P.S> Have however been more cautious about pretzelling the rims as they were quite pricey (for me anyway!)

captain_tiara

As always there's a dissenter!

I've used ceramics for nigh on ten years, used to be a london courier & lordy knows how many times they've paid for themselves.

Ceramic pads for me every time. Especially in the wet. Once you've used normal rubber you coat the ceramic & squeel & slip in the wet. Saves on having a bell though.

Just remember most braking on the back & modulate on the front.

satanas

^ FWIW, I've never had any problems with noise or vibration with standard pads; braking has been exemplary. I was half expecting things to be noisy and to need different pads, but this has never been an issue.