Do HH Brake Pads Get Hotter Than FE Brake Pads?

Comparing FE and HH Brake Pads: Temperature Range, Friction, and Fade Resistance 

Question:

When comparing different brake compounds using the DOT pad scale, do HH-rated brake pads get hotter than FE-rated brake pads? What is the temperature range of each?

Short Answer

HH pads don't necessarily get hotter than FE pads, but they are designed to work effectively at much higher temperatures. They typically tolerate, and may even require, more heat to perform at their best.

Understanding the DOT Pad Rating Scale

The DOT (SAE J866) brake pad code uses two letters:

  • First letter = friction coefficient when cold (~0–200°F / 0–93°C)
  • Second letter = friction coefficient when hot (~300–650°F / 149–343°C)

Each letter corresponds to a friction range:

  • E: 0.25–0.35
  • F: 0.35–0.45
  • G: 0.45–0.55
  • H: 0.55–0.65

So:

  • FE = medium friction when cold, lower friction when hot
  • HH = very high friction when cold and hot

Do HH Pads Get Hotter Than FE Pads?

Not inherently, but in practice:

  • HH pads are used in higher-performance or heavier braking situations, which generate more heat.
  • They are built to handle and maintain performance at elevated temperatures, whereas FE pads may lose effectiveness ("fade") as temperatures rise.
  • HH pads often operate comfortably at temperatures that would degrade FE pads.

So, while the pad itself doesn’t magically create more heat, systems using HH pads often run hotter because they are pushed harder.

Typical Temperature Ranges (Approximate)

These vary by material (organic, semi-metallic, ceramic, or sintered), but the general trends are:

EE / FF (Common Street Pads)

  • ~0–400°F (0–200°C) optimal operating range
  • Fade begins above ~500°F (260°C)

FE

  • ~0–450°F (0–230°C)
  • Noticeable drop-off at higher temperatures

GG

  • ~100–800°F (38–430°C)
  • Better mid-to-high temperature stability

HH (Performance / Sintered Pads, Common in Motorcycles)

  • ~200–1,200°F (93–650°C) or higher
  • Designed for aggressive braking and high heat loads

Practical Takeaway

FE Pads

  • Good for lighter-duty applications
  • Quieter operation
  • Lower operating temperatures

HH Pads

  • Better for aggressive driving, towing, racing, or motorcycles where high heat is unavoidable

Switching to HH Without Needing It Can Mean:

  • More rotor wear
  • More noise and dust
  • Less initial bite when cold (in some compounds)

About Lyndall Brakes:

Lyndall Brakes designs and manufactures high-performance braking components for V-Twin motorcycles, combining American craftsmanship with advanced engineering. Made in the USA with premium materials, our products elevate performance and safety through cutting-edge technology and innovative manufacturing. Guided by integrity, innovation, and excellence, Lyndall Brakes is trusted by riders and professionals worldwide and remains focused on advancing braking technology that inspires confidence and empowers riders everywhere.

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