Galfer Performance brake pads for Avid BB5

The Galfer Performance brake pad FD420G1053 fits the Avid BB5 (Ball Bearing 5) mechanical disc brake. The black Performance compound G1053 is Galfer’s all-rounder for XC, trail, and enduro: high braking power, fade-resistant, and very durable, even in mud.

Compatibility

According to Galfer, pad shape FD420 fits these brakes:

• Avid: BB5 (Ball Bearing 5)

Please check the model and year of your brake caliper before purchasing, or compare your old pad with the image and dimensions on this page. For the Avid BB7 and Juicy you need shape FD281 (Galfer Performance for Avid BB7 and Juicy); for the hydraulic Avid Elixir, shape FD427 (Galfer Performance for SRAM Level, DB and Avid Elixir).

Galfer Performance G1053: the all-rounder

Galfer gives the Performance compound top marks for durability and rates braking power, fade resistance, and performance in wet and muddy conditions as good. This compound was previously known as Standard.

• Organic-semi-metallic, asbestos-free friction compound
• For XC, trail, and enduro
• Black backing plate
• Dimensions according to Galfer: 24.0 × 37.0 mm

Which Galfer compound is right for you?

We offer the FD420 pad shape in the Galfer Performance compound. You can find more on the differences in our brake pad buying guide.

What's in the box

1 pair of pads for one caliper. For front and rear, order 2.

Disc due as well?

New pads only brake properly on a disc in good condition. Measure the disc when you change the pads: if it is below the minimum thickness, warped or deeply scored, it's best to replace it together with the pads. Matching Galfer discs:

• Shark: 6-bolt · Center Lock, one-piece, for enduro, downhill and e-MTB
• Shark EVO: 6-bolt · Center Lock, two-piece with aluminium carrier for even better cooling
• Wave Fixed 2.0 mm: 6-bolt · Center Lock, for e-MTBs, enduro and heavier riders
• Wave Fixed 1.8 mm: 6-bolt · Center Lock, the classic Wave in 1.8 mm, 160 to 203 mm
• Wave Floating V2: 6-bolt, two-piece with coloured pins, 180 and 203 mm

Compare all discs: Galfer brake discs. With 2.0 mm discs, check that your caliper has room for them.

Installation and replacement

• Always replace all pads in a brake caliper at the same time.
• On the mechanical BB5, back off the inner pad adjuster before fitting the pads, then reset the pad clearance.
• Keep the disc and pads free of grease; Galfer Brake Cleaner is suitable for cleaning.
• Follow your brake manufacturer's wear limits.

Frequently asked questions

Does the pad fit the Avid BB7?

No, the BB7 has its own pad shape: FD281.

Does the pad fit hydraulic Avid brakes?

No. According to Galfer, the Juicy uses shape FD281, the Elixir shape FD427 and the Code from model years 2007 to 2010 shape FD421.

How do I bed in new pads?

On a flat, safe stretch: brake several times from medium speed down to walking pace, using each brake individually.

What is Galfer Performance suitable for?

For almost everything from XC to trail and enduro.

We ship Galfer brake pads from our Swiss warehouse. Unsure if the pad fits? Send us a photo of your brake caliper—we will tell you which pad is the right one.