Hi everyone,

I have bought my first (used) bike that has disc brakes. Thinking this was a wise choice as I've been told disc brakes are superior to the side-pull caliper style brakes. However I do not know how to maintain them. After watching a few videos on Youtube on the subject, it seems like it involves more work and room for error compared to the side-pull caliper brakes. But perhaps it is like this for most people if you already know how to maintain the other type of brakes?

I have a few questions though:

1: How do I know what kind of brake pads I need? I tried just reading the label on the brake and looking on e.g. eBay, but how do I know for sure they will fit?

2: My brakes squeal a lot. I didn't notice this when I examined the used bike as it was dry and warmer. They appear to only (or at least for the most past) squeal when it is wet and cold. I'm not sure if it is the temperature or the difference in friction due to water that causes the squealing. I watched a few videos on how to remedy squealing brakes, but it seems like you have to disassemble the brake in order to get to the pads so you can clean them.

3: Are my brakes "self aligning"? In the sense that when I replace the brake pads, will they self align just by pulling the brake?

I attached a few pictures, hoping someone will be able to tell me what kind of brake pads will fit the brakes.

Thanks. :-)