XT90, GT900 and X5 use mechanical disc brakes in the current listed specification. Mechanical means the lever operates the brake through cable movement. Hydraulic systems use fluid pressure. Neither description alone proves stopping distance, correct adjustment or current condition.
Identify the system before choosing parts or service
| System | What to identify | Service implications |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical disc | Lever, cable, caliper and rotor details | Cable condition, pad movement and adjustment need the correct component instructions |
| Hydraulic disc | Lever, hose, caliper and specified fluid system | Do not add fluid or follow another system’s bleeding procedure |
| Unconfirmed brake specification | Actual fitted component labels and clear photos | Confirm the system before ordering pads, cables or other parts |
Do not describe GT900 as hydraulic because it has front and rear suspension. Suspension and brake actuation are separate specifications. Replacement pads also need the correct shape, material and rotor compatibility.
Use symptoms to decide what happens next
| Symptom | Useful observation | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Lever reaches the handlebar or braking is weak | When it started, which brake and any visible damage | Stop riding and arrange inspection before continuing |
| Persistent rubbing, grinding or unexpected drag | Whether it occurs every wheel turn or only during braking | Have the wheel and brake checked; do not bend parts by guesswork |
| Noise after wet conditions but braking feels unchanged | Whether it clears and whether braking remains consistent | Monitor carefully; persistent noise still needs assessment |
| Oil or spray reaches the braking surfaces | Product involved and parts affected | Stop use and obtain cleaning or replacement guidance for the fitted brake |
| Loose component, damaged cable or visibly damaged rotor | Location and photographs if safe | Do not continue riding until repaired and checked |
Noise alone does not identify the fault. Likewise, the absence of noise does not prove the brakes are safe. Do not test suspected weak brakes on public roads or steep descents.
Prevent avoidable contamination
Keep lubricants and household sprays away from brake pads and rotor braking surfaces. Do not touch hot rotors after riding. Apply chain care products only according to the bike instructions while protecting the brakes. Do not treat noisy brakes with oil.
Use the exact brake manual for inspection limits and service. Universal pad thickness, cable tension and torque values are not provided here because the fitted components need identification first.
Send the mechanic or support team this record
- Bike model, order reference and which brake is affected.
- Component labels and clear photos of lever, caliper and rotor.
- When the symptom started, including any impact, cleaning or wheel removal.
- Whether braking strength changed and whether the lever travel changed.
- Any previous service or parts replacement.
This helps separate cable, pad, rotor and wheel issues without promising that every workshop stocks the required parts. Confirm acceptance, parts and cost with the workshop before transporting the bike there.
Before returning to normal riding
Have any safety fault corrected first. Follow the fitted brake instructions and the mechanic's handover advice, then become familiar with braking in safe conditions before normal traffic. No universal bedding procedure is supplied for unidentified pads or rotors.
Sources and scope
Reviewed 28 October 2026. SRAM brake safety instructions explain contamination and brake safety risks. They do not identify ARSK components as SRAM or provide their service settings.
