DISC BRAKE PADS

Does anyone know if brake pads deteriorate with age like tyres (and owners) do?

Modern pads like modern tyres are far better than the old original types and if not contaminated will last many years but it is norm for the makers to assume they would wear out within 3 4 or maybe 5 years in normal use. Our bike may not see enough miles to do this but neither do they have the power of a modern braking system so you will not work them as hard.
If you have realy old pads or are unsure as to their condition then change them for a good quality make as its far cheaper and maybe a lot less painful than not stopping when you realy need to.

Looking at some 45 year old ones now and they look just fine but that does not mean use them. I like the new Platinums.

New pads are so inexpensive it's worth just changing them out.

Plus the pad material is a lot better too - I just got some Ferodo pads and I'm more than happy with them. Even Emgo ones work pretty well :shock:

I use two Lockheed calipers and Suzuki steel discs on my Seeley with very old asbestos pads, and the braking is excellent - one finger operation. Previously I've used a larger single chrome plated disc with a single Lockheed caliper with the same asbestos pads and the same master cylinder , and it would not stop the bike from even moderate speed. The master cylinder size obviously affects the dual disc setup, however I tried using carbon racing pads and couldn't seem to get them hot enough. I suggest the pad material must suit the disc material to get the best friction characteristic. I don't believe the age of the pads matters unless they are badly worn.

Guy`s the only issue I have ever had with old pads is rust between the friction material and the back plate
always check carefully because the friction material bonding will break loose under braking
if you have any old pads with rusty back plates bin them and replace with new