One of the most common and important replacement parts to keep a Slingshot functioning perfectly are its brake pads. These pads consist of a metal brace attached to a thick pad that applies friction to the rotor. When the driver presses the brake pedal these pads press against the rotor on either side which converts the kinetic energy of the rotor in motion into heat. As the brake pads heat up they leave a type of residue on the rotor, giving it the same adherent-like properties of the pads themselves while under pressure from the pads. Now that these two surfaces are both coated in the frictious material of the brake pad, they provide significant resistance to the rotors motion, allowing the Slingshot to slow down and stop. Generally speaking softer pads are more effective at braking and are well suited for racing or other high performance activities, but wear out faster and need to be replaced more often. Harder pads will last longer but lack the effectiveness of softer pads. Regardless of an individual driver's needs it is extremely important to regularly check and replace depleted pads so as to both maintain control over the Slingshot and to avoid damaging the rotors due to worn out brake pads.