Cleaning Disk brake rotor

[united4ever]

Going to attempt to change my hydraulic disk brake pads for the first time. I have the pads ready but I understand I need to clean the disk rotor first. Reading that metholated spirits are good. Is it ok to use something like this?

https://www.wilko.com/wilko-decorat...hFCZbmWKSjMwZmTP8LhoCxDYQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

Or should I get a specific product?

Thanks

 

[T.M.H.N.E.T]

Generally yes, it's an evaporating solvent that shouldn't leave residue.

 

[ianrauk]

Have never cleaned a rotor in all the years I have had them on road bikes. Never been needed.

 

[Drago]

Brake cleaner. Ideally suited for, erm, cleaning brakes.

 

[I like Skol]

Have never cleaned a rotor in all the years I have had them on road bikes. Never been needed.

This^^^^

If they aren't contaminated and you are just replacing pads like for like because they are worn out then just pop the new ones straight in, no cleaning required.

 

[PaulSB]

Have never cleaned a rotor in all the years I have had them on road bikes. Never been needed.

Same for me. When my LBS handed over my first disc braked bike five years ago I was told not too.

I wipe mine with hot water using a clean cloth when washing my bike.

 

[Gunk]

I’ve cleaned them using brake cleaner and fine wire wool.

 

[Joffey]

5,000 miles and never cleaned them!

 

[T4tomo]

I have some cheapo Wilko brake cleaner. if its been a wet ride I give them a quick spray and gentle squeeze of the brakes as the wheel is rotating to remove any crud (and wipe down & relube the chain)

 

[ianrauk]

I’ve cleaned them using brake cleaner and fine wire wool.

Are these MTB brakes? I just cant see any reason to do this to road bike rotors?

 

[figbat]

As above, the only cleaning my discs get is through riding and the abrasion of the pads.

 

[Sterlo]

I've bought a litre of rubbing alcohol for under a tenner from Ebay, should last me for years for jobs like this. I agree, only clean them if you need to otherwise you might be taking a layer of good brake material off which helps with stopping. I only clean them if they're contaminated.

 

[Gunk]

Are these MTB brakes? I just cant see any reason to do this to road bike rotors?

yes MTB, I prefer rim brakes on my road bikes, much simpler

 

[fossyant]

You can just use soapy water. You'll need to bed in the new pads - rolling stops (but don't physically stop).

I use brake cleaner when I've been maintaining the MTB - e.g. greasing stuff, just in-case I touched the rotors.

 

[united4ever]

cheers, I think I will not bother then.