BRAKE PAD

The friction material or lining which is secured to metal plates. They press against the brake disc or rotor to enable the wheel to stop. They are to be distinguished from brake shoes which press against the inside of a drum . On a bicycle , brake pads are blocks of rubber-like material fastened to the end of the brake caliper ; they press against the wheel rim when the brakes are applied. Also called "brake block." Sometimes the term "brakePad" refers to both the pad and the metal backing.