When it comes to racing or even track days, the importance of a high-performance brake system cannot be overstated. Your braking system plays a huge role in how fast you can corner, how quickly you can stop, and ultimately how much confidence you’ll have when pushing your car to its limits. At Eldens Autobahn (EA) Performance, we understand the critical role brakes play in performance driving, and we’re here to break down everything you need to know about high-performance brake systems for your track car.
In this blog post, we’ll cover the different components that make up a high-performance brake system, why they’re essential for racers, and how to choose the right upgrades for your vehicle. So, let’s dive in!
Why Brakes Matter for Racers
Brakes are not just about stopping your car. For racers, they’re about maintaining control, reducing lap times, and keeping safety top of mind. High-performance brakes allow for quicker response times, improved consistency, and better overall handling during high-speed runs.
1. The Importance of Brake Fade Resistance
One of the key features of high-performance brake systems is their resistance to brake fade. Under intense braking, especially in racing conditions, traditional brake pads and rotors can overheat, causing them to lose their effectiveness. This is where performance braking systems shine.
- Fade Resistance: Performance brakes are built to withstand the heat generated during high-speed driving and braking, preventing the loss of braking power.
- Consistency: With better heat management, performance brakes maintain consistent stopping power throughout your track sessions.
2. Superior Stopping Power
When you’re racing, you need the ability to brake hard and late without hesitation. High-performance brake systems give you the stopping power needed for quick deceleration, whether you’re coming out of a sharp turn or need to reduce speed on a straightaway.
- Increased Stopping Distance: Performance brakes are designed to offer shorter stopping distances, allowing you to brake later into turns and maintain better control.
- High-Pressure Resistance: Racing brake systems are built to handle the higher pressures and stresses that come with aggressive braking.
3. Better Control and Safety
When you upgrade your brake system, you’re not just boosting performance but also improving the control and safety of your car. A reliable, responsive brake system means you’ll have better control during braking, reducing the risk of instability or lock-ups.
- Improved Modulation: Performance brakes allow for finer modulation, meaning you can apply just the right amount of braking force for more precise control.
- Increased Safety: With enhanced braking power, your car is less likely to overheat or lose grip, reducing the risk of accidents.
Key Components of High-Performance Brake Systems
A high-performance brake system consists of several critical components that work together to provide the best possible braking performance. Below are the key components you need to know about.
1. Brake Pads
Brake pads are arguably the most important component of your braking system. The material used in high-performance brake pads is crucial for heat dissipation, fade resistance, and overall braking effectiveness.
- Carbon-Ceramic Pads: These are perfect for high-performance vehicles as they offer excellent fade resistance and long-lasting durability.
- Metallic Pads: These pads are highly effective under extreme conditions, providing strong bite and high stopping power.
Explore our range of brake pads from RacingLine here.
2. Brake Rotors
The brake rotor, or disc, is another essential part of the braking system. High-performance rotors are typically made from materials like carbon composite or slotted/drilled for better cooling and performance.
- Slotted and Drilled Rotors: These designs help to vent gases and dissipate heat more efficiently, preventing brake fade.
- Carbon-Ceramic Rotors: These rotors provide superior heat management and are lighter than traditional steel rotors, improving overall performance.
Check out our selection of high-performance rotors from Brixton Forged here.
3. Brake Lines and Fluids
Upgrading your brake lines and fluids is another key step in improving your car’s braking performance. Stainless steel braided brake lines provide increased strength and prevent expansion under pressure, while high-performance brake fluids ensure that your system remains efficient, even under the extreme heat of track driving.
- Stainless Steel Brake Lines: These lines are more durable and resistant to expansion, which helps maintain braking consistency.
- Performance Brake Fluid: Specially formulated fluids can withstand higher temperatures without boiling, ensuring the brakes perform consistently.
4. Brake Calipers
The brake caliper houses the brake pads and is responsible for applying pressure to the rotors. Upgraded calipers feature larger pistons or more pistons for increased braking force.
- Multi-Piston Calipers: These calipers provide a more even application of force, improving braking efficiency and reducing the chances of rotor warping.
- Lighter Calipers: Lighter calipers reduce the overall weight of your brake system, improving performance and handling.
Explore VF Engineering brake systems for superior calipers and performance parts, available here.
Choosing the Right Brake System for Your Track Car
Choosing the right brake system depends on your car’s requirements, your driving style, and the type of racing you’re involved in. For example, if you’re doing a lot of endurance racing, you’ll need a system that offers excellent heat resistance. For more technical, short-track driving, you may prioritise stopping power and control.
1. Consider Your Car’s Weight and Power
Heavier cars require stronger, more durable brakes, while lighter cars can get away with less aggressive brake systems. Similarly, more powerful cars will require higher-performance components to manage the additional speed and force.
2. Track vs. Road Use
If you’re using your car for both road and track use, consider a brake system that balances everyday usability with track performance. For purely track-based use, look for racing brake pads, rotors, and calipers designed for extreme conditions.
3. Budget and Performance Goals
High-performance brake systems can be costly, so it’s important to set a budget and align your choice of upgrades with your performance goals. Brands like IPE Official, Capristo, and Garmin offer a range of products for different price points, ensuring that you can get the performance you need without breaking the bank.
FAQ’s About High-Performance Brake Systems
Q1: What is brake fade, and how do high-performance brake systems prevent it?
A1: Brake fade occurs when the brake components overheat and lose their effectiveness. High-performance brake systems use materials like carbon-ceramic pads and rotors to dissipate heat more effectively, preventing brake fade during intense use.
Q2: How do I know if my brake system needs an upgrade?
A2: If you notice longer stopping distances, inconsistent braking performance, or signs of overheating, it may be time to upgrade your brake system. Upgrading to high-performance pads, rotors, and calipers will ensure you can handle more aggressive driving.
Q3: Can I use high-performance brake parts on my street car?
A3: Yes, many high-performance brake parts are designed for street use, though they may perform best under track conditions. If you’re upgrading for street use, look for a system that balances daily driving comfort with track-level performance.