Definition
Rotor diameter and mass affect heat capacity and pedal effort.
Drilled or slotted rotors aid gas venting but may reduce mass.
Automotive Wiki
Brakes
Brake Rotor
A disc rotating with the wheel that pads clamp to create friction and slow the vehicle.
Related terms
- Brake CaliperA hydraulically actuated clamp housing pistons that squeeze pads against a rotor…
- Brake PadFriction material pressed against the rotor to convert kinetic energy into heat.
- Master CylinderThe hydraulic pump converting brake pedal force into fluid pressure for calipers…
- ABSAnti-lock braking system pulsing pressure to prevent wheel lockup under hard bra…
- Brake BiasThe front-to-rear distribution of braking force during pedal application.
- Big Brake KitAn upgrade package with larger rotors and multi-piston calipers for increased st…
Category: Brakes · Updated August 31, 2026