Shimano disc brake pad types and compatibility

How to Read Shimano Disc Brake Pad Model Numbers

Shimano disc brake pad model numbers follow a format:
[Pad Shape][Generation][Backing Plate Material]-[Pad Compound]

For example, the model number K04Ti-MX means:

1. Narrow-type K pad shape
2. 4th generation
3. Titanium backing plate
4. Metal pad compound

Pad Shape

Pad shapes include Narrow Type K, L, G, J, etc., and these are determined by the brake caliper’s design.

Generation

Newer generations tend to offer improved wear resistance and overall performance.

Backing Plate Material

The backing plate affects weight and heat dissipation. Common materials include:

• Ti: Titanium
• C: Composite
• S: Stainless Steel
• A: Aluminum

Pad Compound

The compound is usually either:

• M: Metal
• R: Resin

In newer generations, you might also see RF (Resin Friction), among others.
If the pad includes radiator fins, the model number may end with F, although some fin-equipped pads may not show -F in the model number.

If there’s no hyphen in the model number, it typically indicates a resin pad.

Shimano Road Disc Brake Calipers and Compatible Pad Model Numbers

For Shimano road disc brake calipers, there are three primary pad types based on shape:

• Narrow Type K
• Narrow Type L
• Narrow Type G

The current generation primarily uses:

• Narrow Type K (no fins)
• Narrow Type L (with fins)

These two are functionally compatible, with the only difference being the presence or absence of heat-dissipating fins.

Narrow Type G pads are for older-generation disc brakes.

The choice would be whether to select the L series with radiator fins or the K series without. Next, the material of the back plate and padding will determine which model you choose.

When replacing pads, pay attention to the pads that are compatible with the disc rotors.

In Shimano’s disc brake system, the choice of rotors depends on whether the caliper side has narrow or wide pads. This is because if the calipers are compatible with wide pads, rotors for narrow pads cannot be used.

Also, some rotors may have “resin only” compatible pads, so if you are using resin only rotors and replace them with metal pads, you will need to replace the rotors with metal compatible rotors as well.

Keep in mind that which pads you choose will also affect the rotors.