2nd Gen R55 Clubman Most liked posts in thread: Brake Pads for 2009 Clubman S

I've run both Hawks Ceramics and Carobotech 1521 Bobcats - I'm a big fan of the Carbotechs. They are available in your size. Not cheap, but very long lasting, easy on the rotors, compatible with CT's track pads on the same rotors, great modulation. Note that ny ceramic pad will have VERY different bite characteristics than the OEM pads and will take some getting used to. Bobcats will stop your car just fine - but do not have the "binary" feel of the OEM pads - the harder you push, the more braking they apply, in a pretty linear manner. Not like the OEM "just threw out the anchor" feel when you touch them.

MINI Cooper S R50 R52 R55 R56 R57 JCW Big Brake Kit Wilwood Brembo ATW Hawk Track Low Dust AutoX Auto X Autocross Cross Power Slot EBC Motul Fluid OEM BMW Auto X Cooper

 

Yes, Paul, please share with us a comparison between the Hawk Ceramics and the carbotech. I have the Hawks (love them), but may consider the carbotechs next time.

 

I run the Carbotech 1521 Bobcats and agree completely with Paul's characterization. I really like them. Also, they seem practically dust free to me (or maybe it's just because I wash my MINI a lot.) But I can say for a fact that whatever brake dust they produce is just a small fraction of the OEM pads.

One supplemental note: The Bobcats are NOT for the track.

 

In my experience, the Hawks and Bobcats produce very similar quantities and qualities of dust - what dust there is, is very light and non corrosive, and wipes right off (especially if your wheels are waxed/sealed). The Hawks had a bit more bite but wore my rotors like crazy. The Bobcats have better modulation. and are easier on the rotors.

 

And available from M/A sponsor WMW too Way Motor Works :: 07- Cooper & S (R56) :: Maintenance :: Brake Pads :: Carbotech Brake Pads

 

Thanks!

 

If your rotors are in good shape, I'd recommend you have the turned the minimum amount possible to give you a nice, flat, clean surface for the Bobcats.