The Braking Point of Every Rider’s Journey
Let’s give credit where it’s due—your brake pads are the unsung heroes of every ride. They don’t tend to show off, but they do the job that matters most: stopping you before things go sideways.
So, when should you replace them? The short answer: it depends. But don’t worry—Suzuki Canada is about to break it down with zero guesswork.
How Often Should You Replace Brake Pads?
As a general rule, brake pads should be replaced every 15,000 to 20,000 kilometres. But like everything else in riding, your mileage may vary—literally.
If your riding style leans more “weekend cruise” than “track day adrenaline,” you might get more life out of them. But if you’re heavy on the brakes, carry a passenger often, or spend your time dodging city traffic, expect them to wear out sooner.
Pro tip: Your front pads wear faster than the rear. That’s because 70–80% of your stopping power comes from the front brakes. Check both!
Aftermarket vs OEM: What’s the Difference?
If you’re using aftermarket brake pads, friction material degradation can happen much sooner than with OEM parts. Some aftermarket options may be cheaper or promise high performance, but they can be harsh on your brake rotors, leading to expensive damage over time. Suzuki Genuine Brake Pads are made specifically for your bike’s braking system. They’re engineered to deliver consistent performance, longer life, and reduced rotor wear. The bottom line is that they’re built to stop exactly as intended.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Brake Pads
Don’t want to keep track of kilometres? No problem. Your Suzuki will let you know it’s time:
- Squealing or squeaking – That noise is your brake pads asking for help.
- Longer stopping distance – If your brakes feel mushy or delayed, it’s time to check.
- Vibration while braking – A shaky stop is your cue to inspect.
- Visible wear – If the pad material is thinner than a credit card, replace ASAP.
DIY or Dealer?
Brake pads are one of the most affordable and important parts of your ride. Replacing them yourself? If you’ve got the tools and the know-how, go for it. If not, leave it to the pros at your local authorized Suzuki dealership. They’ve got the training, tools, and torque specs to get the job done right—no second-guessing.
So, get performance you can trust—now at everyday low prices: $79.49 for motorcycle brake pads and $55.49 for ATV brake pads. No surprises, just smooth and reliable stops.
Find your Suzuki dealer here.
