Replacing a worn-out or damaged disc brake rotor is an essential maintenance task to ensure optimal braking performance and safety on your bike. Follow this guide to learn how:

links to buy replacement rotor: 

180mm 

160mm

203mm

Tools You'll Need:

• Allen wrenches
• Torque wrench (if available, for precise tightening)
• Degreaser or isopropyl alcohol
• Clean rags

6-Bolt Rotor Replacement:

1. Remove the Wheel:

   • Remove the wheel from the bike, following the instructions for your specific bike model.

2. Remove the Old Rotor:

   • Use a T25 Torx wrench to loosen and remove the six bolts that hold the rotor to the hub.

3. Clean the Hub:

   • Use a clean rag and degreaser or isopropyl alcohol to thoroughly clean the hub interface where the rotor mounts. This ensures proper contact and prevents squeaking.

4. Install the New Rotor:

   • Carefully place the new rotor onto the hub, aligning it with the mounting holes.
   • Ensure the rotor's rotation direction arrow matches the wheel's rotation direction.
   • Insert and lightly tighten the six bolts in a star pattern.
   • Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's recommended torque specification (usually found on the rotor or in the bike's manual).

Centerlock Rotor Replacement:

1. Remove the Wheel:

   • Remove the wheel from the bike.

2. Remove the Lockring:

   • Use a cassette lockring tool to loosen and remove the lockring that secures the rotor to the hub. You may need to hold the rotor with a wrench to prevent it from spinning.

3. Remove the Old Rotor:

   • Once the lockring is removed, the rotor should slide off the hub easily.

4. Clean the Hub:

   • Clean the hub interface with degreaser or isopropyl alcohol.

5. Install the New Rotor:

   • Place the new rotor onto the hub, ensuring the splines are properly aligned.
   • Thread the lockring onto the hub by hand.
   • Use the cassette lockring tool to tighten the lockring to the manufacturer's recommended torque specification.

After Installation:

• Spin the Wheel: Spin the wheel to ensure the rotor spins freely without rubbing against the brake pads. If there's any rubbing, realign the caliper (see our "How to Align Hydraulic Disc Brakes" guide).
• Bed in the Brakes: Follow the brake pad manufacturer's instructions for bedding in the new rotor with the pads. This involves performing a series of controlled stops to transfer a thin layer of pad material to the rotor, improving braking performance.

Important Tips:

• Always wear gloves when handling disc brake rotors to avoid contaminating them with oils from your skin.
• Never use grease or lubricant on disc brake rotors or pads.
• If you're unsure about any step, consult your bike's manual or a professional bike mechanic.