Brake Bias

[kimokalihi]

I don't know a lot about brakes but I gather that from the factory a car is designed with a certain brake bias (front braking performance vs rear) that works most effectively on that vehicle.

That said, is it a better idea to upgrade your brake pads to race pads or upgrade to larger OEM brakes with OEM pads? Is your brake bias going to be changed much (or at all) using brakes off a WRX, newer legacy, STI, etc?

I'm sure tons of things affect the performance of the vehicles brakes including weight, weight distribution, suspension geomtry and components, tires, etc. Most, if not all of these variables are going to be different (even if only slightly) on any other vehicle so I assume it's something to consider before bolting on brakes from different vehicle.

So if I wanted the safest and best performing brakes should I buy new rotors and EBC yellowstuff pads (or similar) or bolt on a set WRX/STI brakes?

[n2x4]

I don't want to sound like a dick, but have you read the brake sticky? The FAQ really goes into great detail. Even Josh's spreadsheet shows you the percentage of change in brake torque when you compare the upgrades you're considering. I've missed good sticky threads before myself, so don't think I'm suggesting this in angst.

http://bbs.legacycentral.org/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=30989

What kind of tires do you have?

[kimokalihi]

lol no problem. I have not read the sticky. I don't always see them I guess. I'll take a look at it. Thanks

I'm running 225/45/17 General Exclaim UHP tires. They're brand new.

[n2x4]

haha- I guess I'm on NASIOC too much where everyone's a dick. The sticky should answer all your questions. You've got good tires, so you're set there.

[Legacy777]

My spreadsheet will give you an idea of the change in brake torque. Brake torque & bias are slightly different. The main advantage in going to larger OEM brake setups is that you increase the thermal capacity of the brake system. The larger the rotors, the more heat they can absorb and disapate before overheating.