A big brake kit (BBK) is an oversized caliper that is used to house an oversized brake pad. These are used in racing cars to reduce the temperature of calipers, pads and fluid during heavy episodes of braking.
The function of these aftermarket brake kits is to expand the surface area of the pad hitting the rotor for a better braking function. Here at ProSpeed, we stock one of the widest ranges of brake kits in Australia – including Subaru WRX STi big brake kits for your performance vehicle.
Benefits of Installing a WRX STi Big Brake Kit
Updating the pads in your Subaru WRX STi has a lot of advantages. The biggest benefit is that performance pads survive fade much better than stock models. You'll achieve better performance at the track, as pads tend to stick better as they start to heat up, especially when used in conjunction with upgraded coilovers.
-
Increase in Stopping Power: This is particularly when compared to original manufacturer equipment parts. This is due to the large size and disc area, in addition to the pads that shorten stopping distances. When these larger discs and rotors are paired with braided cables, you get some incredibly satisfying results.
-
Decrease in Operating Temperatures: Heat is a braking system’s biggest enemy, as it can lead to overheating, rendering the car useless. Racing vehicles use these kits to reduce the temperature of calipers, pads and fluid during heavy episodes of braking. A larger pad allows the system to absorb more heat overall due to its size, thus the system stays cool, providing better performance for longer.
-
Supports Driving in Wet Conditions: These kits make your performance vehicle safer for driving on the track and in a variety of conditions. Their larger size and disc area, along with their pads, shorten stopping distances. This means you can rest assured knowing that you can handle whatever the weather chooses to throw at you.
-
More Aesthetically Pleasing: Style isn’t as much of a concern as safety – but if it’s an option, why not opt for a product that’s easy on the eyes?
What happens if my Pads overheat?
If a pad heats to its critical point, regardless of it is a stock or aftermarket fit, parts of the pad will actually liquefy or melt in what’s known as glazing.
This melted pad material will actually crystalise when reforming, and go on to create a glaze on the pad and rotor. This glazing will severely hamper the performance of a braking system, and cause symptoms such as vibration or jitter, damage to the brake lines, cracks or fissures in the brake rotors themselves, or even malfunction to brake ducts, which may not be able to properly channel air.
Upgrade kits for your Subaru WRX/ STI
There are many types of aftermarket discs available on the market. From cross-drilled discs to slotted ones, Pro Speed Racing has you covered.
However, when it comes to upgrading parts for your Subaru WRX STi, it’s best to buy a WRX STi kit that’s been tailored to suit your vehicle. For further advice, get in touch with the team at ProSpeed Racing today.
