Compatibility across four generations of Shimano road groupsets makes the R55C4 the one brake pad compound to keep on hand. Shimano developed the R55C4 alongside the Dura-Ace 9000 series, and the compound now serves as the standard replacement for everything from current R9200 calipers back through 7700-era brakes. If you're running rim brakes on any road bike with Shimano components from the last two decades, these pads fit your calipers.

The R55C4 compound addresses the issues that plagued earlier Shimano pad generations. Previous versions would absorb metal shavings from the rim surface and pick up road debris, requiring regular maintenance with an awl and sandpaper to keep the braking surface clean. The R55C4 formulation resists that contamination, and the segmented pad surface channels heat, water, and grime away from the contact patch. Wet weather performance improved significantly over the R55C3, with more consistent modulation when conditions turn bad.

Each package includes one pair of pad inserts for a single brake caliper, plus the fixing bolts for installation. The pads slide into your existing cartridge holders and lock in place with the included hardware. Shimano applies a mild threadlocker to the bolts, so they stay put through vibration and repeated braking cycles. If you're replacing pads on both front and rear brakes, you'll need two packages.... Read More