I have a Giant Trance 1 with Hayes 9 brakes on it. Basically it needs new pads and I have always taken it to the shop to get them changed before, but thought this time I might give it a go myself. What I am wondering is:
1. How tricky is it?
2. What should I watch out for?
3. If it is easy enough what pads would you recommend and where is the best place to them?
Its possibly the easiest thing to do on a bike, after pumping up tyres.
1) Very very easy
2) a: Just make sure you push the piston's back into the calipre before removing the old pads and the pistons stay there (don't push back out - push them in several time & they will eventually stay in).
The brake pistons have a central locating pin for the pads which will snap off if you try to do this without the pads fitted. It's too late to do this with the new pads, as you won't be able to fit them in, if you haven't pushed the piston back in the 1st place.
2) b: The two pads have different shaped locating fittings, the back pads fitting is slightly bent and the front one straight. Just note which one fits where (bent on the back IIRC) when removing the old pads & the new ones will go in easily.
3) I've given up on cheap cheap pads as they dissolve in the rain IME, though if it stays dry it won't matter for a while. IIRC I'm using clarkes pads ATM
P.s: Occasionally you'll find that some makes of brake pad seem slightly thicker than others, even with the pistons pushed all the way back you get some pad rub... I've taken to sanding them down slightly, a waste, but better than rubbing pads.
1. How tricky is it?
You should be able to change pads on the trail so easy. Do a search by make and model, theres probably a youtube vid/
2. What should I watch out for?
See above
3. If it is easy enough what pads would you recommend and where is the best place to them.
If in doubt buy the same that are fitted, i like sintered pads, others like organic. If you can see metallic flakes in your old pads they are sintered.
Most of the big names are good for pads, Aztec, Fibrax, EDC, Good ridge, etc. Some of the lesser brands have mixed reviews. The cheapest may not be the cheapest in the long run.
Take your time follow the instructions and and have fun.