In November last year, Tim Coleman from nsmb.com tested Galfer brake pads and rotors. Here’s a summary of the key differences between the Wave and Shark rotors, and his thoughts on Galfer Wave, Galfer Shark, and the 1554T Pro pads.

GALFER WAVE ROTORS

Galfer Wave rotors are based on a design the company has been refining for over 70 years for motorcycles. They are available in both center lock and 6-bolt options, in sizes from 160 mm to 223 mm, and in 1.8 mm and 2 mm thicknesses. Coleman tested the 223 mm and 203 mm versions with 2 mm thickness. The retail price for a 223 mm rotor is €50, while the 203 mm version is priced at €42.09 – comparable to most standard one-piece OEM rotors.

All Galfer rotors are made from high-quality 420 stainless steel with high carbon content. They are laser-cut, double disc-parallel ground for flatness, and heat-treated for specific applications. Galfer claims that laser cutting instead of stamping reduces internal stress during production, making rotors more resistant to warping under heat.

GALFER SHARK ROTORS

The first thing you’ll notice with Shark rotors is the price. Like the Wave rotors, they are made from high-quality carbon-rich stainless steel, laser-cut, ground, and heat-treated. However, they are significantly more expensive – €108.58 for the 223 mm and €102.48 for the 203 mm version, more than double the cost of the Wave or OEM rotors.

The higher price may be justified by the complex pattern of smaller holes, which increase the surface area and improve heat dissipation. These finer details likely add machine time, raising production costs.

GALFER PRO PADS – High-Performance Racing Compound

Coleman tested the Galfer Pro pads on Hayes Dominion A4 brakes mounted on his Norco Range, although he also used the rotors with Hope Tech4 V4 and SRAM Code RSC. The Pro pads were only tested with the Dominions.

Galfer describes the Pro compound as one of its most aggressive, designed for racing and offering:

• Exceptional braking power
• Resistance to contamination
• High heat resistance (fade-resistant)

Due to their aggressive nature, Pro pads may wear faster than Galfer’s less aggressive Standard compound—especially under heavy use. Retail price: €29.10.

TESTING GALFER WAVE & SHARK ROTORS

Wave Rotors:
Coleman tested Wave rotors on Hayes Dominion, SRAM Code RSC, and Hope Tech V4 brakes. Performance was consistent, with no warping even under high temperatures. They’re solid performers but not particularly remarkable or disappointing—comparable to OEM rotors. While he didn’t test them in extreme mud, he expects their design would help shed debris better than most OEM options.

Shark Rotors:
Shark rotors made a much stronger impression. They delivered noticeably better bite than standard rotors—without being grabby—and provided significantly higher braking torque at the same lever force. They also look fantastic.

The Shark’s heat management was outstanding, delivering consistent braking performance even on long, steep descents—where brake fade typically occurs. Compared to OEM and Wave, the Shark rotors clearly outperformed.

TESTING COMBINATION: GALFER PRO PADS + SHARK ROTORS

Using the Galfer Pro Pads with Shark rotors on Hayes Dominion A4 brakes resulted in excellent performance. The Pro Pads were significantly more aggressive than Dominion’s stock metallic pads (which resemble most OEM pads). Braking was aggressive yet linear, with huge power that remained easy to modulate. Performance was consistent in both hot and cold conditions.

There was some initial noise in wet conditions until the rotors warmed up—typical for high-performance metallic pads. While more expensive than OEM, Coleman likens them to race car brakes: maximum performance with some trade-offs like initial noise at low temperatures. For riders demanding top-tier braking, the Pro + Shark combo is outstanding.

OVERALL IMPRESSION OF GALFER PRODUCTS

Despite a few small drawbacks—like slightly warped rotors, need for additional adapters/spacers on 223/203 mm sizes, and thin pad springs—Coleman was impressed by Galfer’s products.

• Wave rotors are great OEM replacements with similar performance and better mud/water clearing.
• Shark rotors are a clear upgrade, offering more braking torque and superior heat management.
• Pro Pads outperform OEM pads and improve already-strong Hayes Dominions.
• Shark + Pro combo was his favorite, providing noticeable improvements in braking and reducing arm fatigue.

Although pricey, Galfer earns a “two thumbs up” rating.
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