Riders replacing a worn or damaged 180 mm rotor on a 6-bolt hub, on a bike with resin pad disc brakes.
The SM-RT26 is Shimano's 6-bolt disc brake rotor for standard 6-bolt hubs. Shimano says it delivers consistent stopping power in all riding conditions, and the rotor is polished stainless steel at a standard 1.75 mm thickness. This is the 180 mm size; Shimano also makes it in 160 mm and 140 mm.
Shimano designs it for resin pads only, so it is not for brakes fitted with metal (sintered) pads. The anti-loosening washers and tightening plate are there to make fitting quick and secure, and the rotor is marked with a 1.5 mm minimum thickness so you know when it is time to replace it.
6-bolt mounting
Bolts to a standard 6-bolt hub, with a 44 mm bolt circle (P.C.D.).
Resin pads only
Made for resin pads, and suits both narrow and wide pad lining shapes.
Tightening plate
Shimano's anti-loosen tightening plate and washers help keep fitting quick and secure.
Polished stainless steel
A 1.75 mm stainless steel rotor with a polished finish.
Fit
Build
Great for
Maybe not for
180 mm only. Your frame or fork mount and caliper must be set up for a 180 mm rotor: a mount made for a smaller rotor needs a matching mount adapter to take this size. Confirm your hub is 6-bolt, not Centre Lock.
Burn it in, keep it clean
After fitting a new rotor, Shimano's manual says to burn the brakes in: ride at a moderate speed and slow to walking pace with one brake at a time, at least 20 times per brake. Keep oil and grease off the rotor and pads, and clean with isopropyl alcohol, soapy water or a dry cloth, because Shimano warns that commercial brake cleaners can damage seals. Replace the rotor if it is cracked, deformed or 1.5 mm thick or less.
