Ceramic vs Sintered Brake Pads – What’s Best for E-Bikes?
Ceramic vs Sintered Brake Pads – What’s Best for E-Bikes?
If you're riding an electric bike, you already know how important your braking system is. E-bikes are faster, heavier, and face more stress than traditional bikes—especially when going downhill or riding in traffic. That means your brake pads matter more than ever.
What Are Sintered Brake Pads?
Sintered pads are made by fusing metallic particles under high heat and pressure. They're known for:
High durability – they can take serious abuse before wearing out.
Great performance in wet conditions – perfect for all-weather riders.
Strong bite – ideal for aggressive braking.
They’re especially useful for riders who:
Go downhill frequently
Ride in rain or mud
Put a lot of stress on their brakes (like MTB or loaded e-bikes)
Recommended product:
Designed for high heat and aggressive trails, these pads are your go-to for control in extreme conditions.
2 Pairs Bike Brake Pads Sintered for Avid Code, Code R, Code RSC , DB8
- Will perfectly fit Avid 00.5315.023.010, 00.5315.023.020, 00.5315.023.030, Sram SRM00EX, Code RSC, Code R, Guide RE,SRAM Code R (DB-CODE-R-B1), SRAM Code RSC (DB-CODE-RSC-A1), and SRAM Guide RE (DB-GDE-RE-A1)
- Our Sintered / Metallic pads are unique with copper fibers with the perfect balance of ceramic fibers. Our pads are perfect for superior stopping power during muddy and rainy conditions. Extra braking power and longer brake pads life.
- Please compare the shape of your original pads before ordering. Clean your disc and caliper before installing and check alignment of the caliper. Unlike other brands, Hardheaded Ram brake pads are constructed with high standards that provide a better riding experience. Will fit rim size 20, 26, 27.5, 29 inch wheels, as well as 140, 160, 180 and 203 mm rotors.
- Fast to bed in. Made for all weather conditions, in the rain or mud or with dry dirt. Replace rear, front, mechanical or hydraulic brakes. For e-bikes, we recommend our sintered/metallic brake pads, which are designed for high temperatures, and a long life span. Bulk available. Wholesale and distributors welcome.
- Love it or your money back. We know you have options here and we want to make the best choice. That's why we offer a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. If for any reason our product does not live up your expectations, ship it back to us for a replacement or a full refund. The choice will be yours #hardheadedram
What Are Ceramic Brake Pads?
Ceramic pads are made from a blend of ceramic fibers and non-metallic materials. They are known for:
Excellent heat dissipation – less risk of brake fade
Quiet operation – minimal noise during braking
Smooth modulation – great for controlled, gradual stops
These pads are ideal for:
E-bike riders who value silence and precision
Urban riders and commuters
Long-distance cruising with minimal wear on rotors
At Hard Headed Ram, we carry the only ceramic brake pads on the market for SRAM Maven models—a game-changer for high-performance e-bike braking.
Featured ceramic models:
Bike Brake Pads Ceramic + Kevlar for SRAM Maven, bc800 3d500, 120g 3b039
- Will perfectly fit SRAM Maven, bc800 3d500, 120g 3b039
- Our downhill or softer ceramic brake pads have the right balance of kevlar and ceramic fiber, making them an excellent option for reducing heat buildup during long rides. The compound effectively absorbs vibrations, which can help to reduce braking noise. These brake pads are suitable for any type of riding and terrain, and are an especially great choice for e-bike and for downhill bike.
- Please compare the shape of your original pads before ordering. Clean your disc and caliper before installing and check alignment of the caliper. Unlike other brands, Hardheaded Ram brake pads are constructed with high standards that provide a better riding experience. Will fit rim size 20, 26, 27.5, 29 inch wheels, as well as 140, 160, 180 and 203 mm rotors.
- Fast to bed in. Made for all weather conditions, in the rain or mud or with dry dirt. Replace rear, front, mechanical or hydraulic brakes. For e-bikes, we recommend our sintered/metallic brake pads, which are designed for high temperatures, and a long life span. Bulk available. Wholesale and distributors welcome.
- Love it or your money back. We know you have options here and we want to make the best choice. That's why we offer a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. If for any reason our product does not live up your expectations, ship it back to us for a replacement or a full refund. The choice will be yours #hardheadedram
Bike Brake Pads Ceramic E-bike for SRAM Maven, bc800 3d500, 120g 3b039
- Will perfectly fit SRAM Maven, bc800 3d500, 120g 3b039
- Our ceramic have the right balance ceramic fiber, making them the best option for low heat during long rides. The compound effectively absorbs the vibration which causes the breaking noise.
- Please compare the shape of your original pads before ordering. Clean your disc and caliper before installing and check alignment of the caliper. Unlike other brands, Hardheaded Ram brake pads are constructed with high standards that provide a better riding experience. Will fit rim size 20, 26, 27.5, 29 inch wheels, as well as 140, 160, 180 and 203 mm rotors.
- Fast to bed in. Made for all weather conditions, in the rain or mud or with dry dirt. Replace rear, front, mechanical or hydraulic brakes. For e-bikes, we recommend our sintered/metallic brake pads, which are designed for high temperatures, and a long life span. Bulk available. Wholesale and distributors welcome.
- Love it or your money back. We know you have options here and we want to make the best choice. That's why we offer a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. If for any reason our product does not live up your expectations, ship it back to us for a replacement or a full refund. The choice will be yours #hardheadedram
Which One Should You Choose?
If you're riding in wet, muddy, or steep terrain, sintered pads might be your best option. They give you the most bite and handle extreme heat well.
If you’re looking for smooth, silent braking with better rotor life and heat management—especially on long rides or heavy e-bikes—ceramic pads are the clear winner.
Final Thoughts
The right brake pads can make a huge difference in your ride. Whether you go ceramic or sintered, choose a product made to handle the unique demands of e-bikes.
At Hard Headed Ram, we specialize in high-performance brake solutions for every kind of rider.
Have questions about compatibility? Contact us—we’ll help you find the perfect fit.
Ride safer. Brake smarter. Choose Hard Headed Ram.
|
Feature |
Ceramic Brake Pads |
Sintered Brake Pads |
|---|---|---|
| Material Composition | Ceramic fibers + non-metallic compounds | Metallic particles fused under heat |
| Braking Power | Moderate to strong, smooth modulation | Very strong, aggressive bite |
| Heat Dissipation | Excellent – reduces risk of brake fade | Good – handles high temps but can heat up faster |
|
Noise Level |
Very low – near silent operation | Can be noisy, especially when cold or wet |
| Durability | Long-lasting, gentle on rotors | Very durable, can wear rotors faster |
| Best Use Case | Urban riding, long-distance, heavy e-bikes | Downhill MTB, wet/muddy trails, heavy braking scenarios |
|
Performance in Wet Conditions |
Good | Excellent – performs better in rain/mud |
| Rotor Wear | Minimal | Higher than ceramic |
| Price | Slightly higher, premium option | Usually more affordable |
| Availability for SRAM Maven | ✅ Yes – exclusive Hard Headed Ram ceramic pads | ✅ Yes |