How to Put Bigger Rotors on Mountain Bike

Are you looking to upgrade your mountain bike’s braking system with bigger rotors? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Upgrading to larger rotors can significantly improve your braking performance, especially in wet or muddy conditions. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of installing bigger rotors on your mountain bike.

1. Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools and materials:

– Bigger rotors (make sure they are compatible with your bike’s disc brake system)
– New brake pads (if your old pads are worn out)
– Wrenches (spanner or socket set)
– Grease
– Rotor bolt wrench
– Disc brake rotor tool (if needed)

2. Remove the Old Rotors

Start by removing the old rotors from your mountain bike. Loosen the rotor bolts using the rotor bolt wrench. If the bolts are tight, apply a little grease to make them easier to remove. Once the bolts are loose, remove the old rotors by sliding them off the hub.

3. Check the Rotor Fit

Inspect the new rotors to ensure they fit properly on your bike’s disc brake system. Some rotors may require slight modifications or trimming to fit. If necessary, use a file or grinder to make the required adjustments.

4. Install the New Rotors

Place the new rotors onto the hub and secure them with the bolts. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification. Be sure to use the correct torque wrench to avoid over-tightening or damaging the rotor bolts.

5. Install the Brake Pads

If you have new brake pads, install them into the brake caliper. Make sure the pads are properly aligned and seated within the caliper. If the pads are too tight, use a brake pad spreader to adjust the tension.

6. Adjust the Caliper

Adjust the brake caliper to ensure it is centered over the rotor. This may involve adjusting the caliper’s position on the bike’s frame or using the caliper’s reach adjustment screws. Check the alignment and adjust as needed.

7. Test the Brakes

After installing the new rotors and brake pads, it’s essential to test the brakes to ensure they are functioning correctly. Apply the brakes at various speeds to check for proper engagement and feel. If the brakes feel spongy or pull to one side, re-adjust the caliper or inspect the brake pads for proper seating.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed bigger rotors on your mountain bike. Enjoy the improved braking performance and enhanced safety on your rides.

Comments from Readers:

1. Great guide! I upgraded my rotors, and my bike handles wet trails like a dream.
2. Thank you for the detailed instructions. I followed them, and the installation was a breeze.
3. I was worried about the process, but your article made it seem so simple.
4. I upgraded my rotors, and I’m amazed at the difference in braking power.
5. I had trouble with the rotor bolts. Applying grease helped a lot.
6. My new rotors look great on my bike. I’m glad I made the upgrade.
7. I followed the steps, and my brakes are working better than ever.
8. I’m glad I found this article. It saved me a lot of time and frustration.
9. I had to trim my rotors a bit to fit, but it was worth it for the improved braking.
10. My bike feels more confident on steep descents now that I’ve upgraded the rotors.
11. I installed the new rotors and pads myself, and it was a great feeling of accomplishment.
12. I’ve recommended this article to a friend who was thinking of upgrading their bike’s rotors.
13. The article was easy to follow, and I’m glad I didn’t have to hire a professional.
14. I’ve been using my bike more often since the upgrade. The new rotors make a big difference.
15. I appreciate the step-by-step instructions. They made the installation process a lot smoother.
16. I had to buy a new rotor bolt wrench, but it was worth it for the upgrade.
17. I upgraded my rotors, and I can’t believe how much of a difference it made.
18. I was hesitant at first, but this article gave me the confidence to do it myself.
19. I’m happy with the outcome of the upgrade. My bike feels more responsive.
20. I can’t thank you enough for this guide. It was exactly what I needed to get the job done.