Rear brake pads for track days: technical guide

When preparing your car for trackdays, simply optimizing the front brakes is not enough. Rear brake pads for trackdays also play a crucial role, both in dynamic balance and in preventing overheating. This guide helps you understand why they are so important and how to choose the best ones for your vehicle.

Why do the rear ones require a specific compound?

Although the rear pads brake with less force than the front ones, their responsibility goes beyond simple braking. Their contribution is vital in:

• Stability and control: they ensure that braking is progressive without locking the rear axle.
• Reduction of fading: they help better distribute the heat, preventing the rear axle from losing effectiveness.
• Durability: by operating at different frequencies, the compound must withstand different cycles than the front.

Therefore, it’s not just about choosing powerful ones, but choosing the appropriate ones for the function they perform.

Rear axle characteristics: balance and wear

The rear axle works with different parameters:

• In strong braking, the distribution is usually 60–70% front and 30–40% rear.
• The rear pads must work under conditions of lower pressure but constant thermal stress.
• Their wear is slower but more prolonged, which requires compounds that maintain consistency with heat and repetitive use.

Recommended SDT compounds: RS55, S50, S50+

SDT Brakes offers specialized proposals for trackdays that complement the front braking without compromising overall performance:

• RS55 (Racing Compound)
  Semi-metallic formula designed for high temperatures (up to 700°C), with greater initial bite and quick recovery capability during intensive sessions.
• S50 (High Performance)
  Enhanced organic compound, ideal for a progressive and smooth performance, with very low noise and stability on cold surfaces.
• S50+
  Sport version of the S50, aimed at demanding users seeking a firmer response without sacrificing comfort in daily driving or mixed sessions.

Real results in grip and resistance

SDT compounds for rears maintain a stable friction coefficient, with excellent thermal resistance and optimal endurance against wear, ideal for repeated stints on the circuit or competing without needing to frequently change pads.

Tips for choosing the complete set

• Synchronize front and rear compound to maintain balance and homogeneous feel.
• Consider the type of use: RS55 if you seek pure performance; S50 for mixed and road trackdays; S50+ for an intermediate alternative with aggressive response.
• Inspect and equip both axles together, even if you only replace the rears, ensuring uniform wear.
• Monitor temperature with an IR thermometer to optimize your choice according to your circuit.
• Consult with your local SDT Brakes provider for specialized advice according to your vehicle and tires.

At SDT Brakes, we have the technical solution for the rear pads for trackdays to work in harmony with your vehicle. Enhance control, avoid fading, and take your strategy to the next level.

Discover our recommended compounds and equip your car with confidence.