Bicycles with disc brakes are revolutionizing the world of cycling. This is a technology that, until recently, was only seen on high-end bicycles, but is now increasingly present in models of all prices and categories. In this Shad Bikes article, we tell you everything you need to know about them. Keep reading!

What exactly are disc brakes?

Instead of using traditional shoes that press on the rim to brake, bicycles with disc brakes use a system similar to that of cars. A metal disc is fixed to the wheel and, when you operate the brake lever, brake pads press on the disc, causing braking.

Why choose a bicycle with disc brakes?

Bicycles with disc brakes offer a number of advantages over bicycles with rim brakes:

• Greater stopping power: Disc brakes offer greater stopping power in any weather condition, even in rain or mud. This gives you more security and control on descents and difficult terrain.
• Better braking modulation: with disc brakes, you can control braking more precisely, allowing you to dose the braking force and avoid skidding.
• Greater safety: The greater power and modulation of disc brakes translates into greater safety for the rider.
• Reduced tire wear: Rim brake shoes wear down the rim over time. Disc brakes do not rub the rim, so it lasts longer.
• Longer Brake Pad Life: Disc brake pads last longer than rim brake shoes.
• More aerodynamic design: Disc brakes allow for a more aerodynamic design of the bike, which can be important for cyclists who compete or seek greater efficiency.

Who are bicycles with disc brakes for?

Bicycles with disc brakes are a good option for any type of cyclist, from beginners to professionals. They are especially recommended for:

• Cyclists who ride in adverse weather conditions: If you live in an area with a lot of rain or snow, disc brakes will provide you with greater safety.
• Cyclists who ride downhill or on difficult terrain: the greater power and modulation of the disc brakes will give you more control in these situations.
• Cyclists looking for greater safety: disc brakes will help you avoid accidents, especially in sudden braking situations.
• Cyclists looking for a bike with a more aerodynamic design: If you want a faster and more efficient bike, disc brakes are a good option.

Are bicycles with disc brakes for me?

If you're thinking about buying a new bike, bikes with disc brakes are a great option. They offer a series of advantages that can benefit you, regardless of your level of experience or the type of cycling you practice.

In the following points of this article, we will analyze in detail the advantages and disadvantages of bicycles with disc brakes, explain how to choose the right type of disc brakes for you, and give you tips for maintaining your bicycle with disc brakes. .

Advantages of bicycles with disc brakes

Bicycles with disc brakes have gained popularity for their many advantages over bicycles with rim brakes. Below, we detail the main advantages that this type of braking system offers you:

Greater braking power in any weather condition

One of the main advantages of bicycles with disc brakes is their greater stopping power. This is because the disc and pad system offers greater friction than rim brake shoes.

This increased braking power allows you to stop faster in any weather condition, even in rain or mud. This is especially important for riders who ride in humid climates or descend difficult terrain.

Better braking modulation and control

Disc brakes allow you to control braking more precisely than rim brakes. This means that you can dose the braking force more gradually, avoiding skidding and improving control of your bike.

This improved braking modulation is especially useful in heavy traffic situations or on steep descents, where you need to adjust your speed precisely.

Greater security

The combination of greater power and better braking modulation translates into greater safety for the cyclist. Bikes with disc brakes allow you to stop faster and with greater control, reducing the risk of accidents, especially in hard braking situations.

Less tire wear

The rim brake shoes constantly rub against the rim, causing gradual wear of the rim. Disc brakes, by not having direct contact with the rim, prevent this wear, allowing you to extend the useful life of your tires.

Longer brake pad life

Disc brake pads also last longer than rim brake shoes. This is because the material of the disc pads is more resistant to wear.

More aerodynamic design

Disc brakes allow for a more aerodynamic design of the bike, as there are no brake shoes protruding from the frame. This can be important for cyclists who compete or are looking for greater efficiency in their rides.

Disadvantages of bicycles with disc brakes

While bicycles with disc brakes offer numerous advantages, it is also important to know their disadvantages before making a purchasing decision.

Higher price

Bikes with disc brakes are usually more expensive than bikes with rim brakes. This is because the disc brake system is more complex and requires additional components such as rotors, calipers and pads.

Greater weight

Bikes with disc brakes also tend to be heavier than bikes with rim brakes. This is due to the additional weight of the rotors, calipers and pads.

Weight gain can be an important factor for cyclists racing or looking for a lightweight bike for climbing climbs.

More complex maintenance

Disc brakes require more complex maintenance than rim brakes. It is necessary to bleed the disc brake system periodically to prevent air from accumulating in the circuit. Additionally, disc brake pads wear out over time and must be replaced.

Noise when braking

Some bicycle models with disc brakes may produce a grinding noise when braking. This noise can be annoying for some cyclists.

Types of bicycle disc brakes

There are two main types of bicycle disc brakes on the market today:

1. Mechanical disc brakes

Functioning

Mechanical disc brakes use a system of cables and shoes to actuate the brake pads. When you operate the brake lever, the cable is pulled, which causes the shoes to press on the disc and braking occurs.

Advantages

• Price: They are cheaper than hydraulic disc brakes.
• Maintenance: They are easier to maintain than hydraulic disc brakes.
• Compatibility: They are compatible with a wider variety of bicycles.

Disadvantages

• Power: They offer less braking power than hydraulic disc brakes.
• Modulation: They offer less braking modulation than hydraulic disc brakes.
• Noise: They can produce a grinding noise when braking.

2. Hydraulic disc brakes

Functioning

Hydraulic disc brakes use a brake fluid system to actuate the brake pads. When you operate the brake lever, the brake fluid is pushed, which causes the pads to press on the disc and braking occurs.

Advantages

• Power: They offer greater stopping power than mechanical disc brakes.
• Modulation: They offer greater braking modulation than mechanical disc brakes.
• Noise: They are quieter than mechanical disc brakes.

Disadvantages

• Price: They are more expensive than mechanical disc brakes.
• Maintenance: They are more complex to maintain than mechanical disc brakes.
• Compatibility: They are compatible with a smaller variety of bicycles.

What type of disc brakes to choose?

Choosing the type of disc brakes will depend on your needs and budget:

1. If you are looking for a bike that is affordable and easy to maintain, mechanical disc brakes are a good option.
2. If you're looking for a bike with the most braking power and modulation, hydraulic disc brakes are the best option.

In addition to the two main types, there are also other less common types of disc brakes, such as axial caliper disc brakes and fork-mount disc brakes.

How to choose a bicycle with disc brakes?

Choosing a bike with disc brakes can be a complex task, as there are many factors to take into account.

1. Consider the type of bicycle and its use

• If you are going to use the bike for mountain biking, you need a bike with hydraulic disc brakes. These brakes offer the most stopping power and modulation, which is essential for controlling the bike on difficult terrain.
• If you are going to use the bike for road cycling, you can choose between mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes. Mechanical disc brakes are more economical, while hydraulic disc brakes offer greater power and modulation.
• If you are going to use the bicycle for urban use or touring, you can choose between mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes. The choice will depend on your budget and preferences.

2. Evaluate the budget

Bicycles with mechanical disc brakes are cheaper than bicycles with hydraulic disc brakes.

3. Choose the right type of disc brakes

• If you're looking for the most braking power and modulation, choose hydraulic disc brakes.
• If you are looking for a bike that is affordable and easy to maintain, choose mechanical disc brakes.

4. Pay attention to the quality of the components

Make sure the bike has good quality components, such as rotors, calipers, and brake pads. Avoid buying bikes with low-quality components, as they may be less efficient and durable.

5. Try it before you buy it

It's important to test the bike before you buy it to make sure you like the way it stops. Ask the salesperson to explain how disc brakes work and demonstrate how to use them.

Additional Tips from Shad Bikes

• Research the different brands and models of bicycles with disc brakes.
• Read reviews from other users before buying a bicycle.
• Consult a cycling expert if you need help choosing the right bike.

By following these tips, you will be able to choose the perfect bike with disc brakes for your needs!

Tips for maintaining disc brakes

Bicycles with disc brakes require regular maintenance to function properly.

Bleed disc brakes regularly

Bleeding the disc brake system is necessary to eliminate any air that may accumulate in the circuit. Air in the circuit can reduce braking power and cause a spongy feel on the brake lever. It is recommended to bleed disc brakes every six months or 1,000 kilometers, whichever comes first.

Check brake pads and replace them when necessary

Disc brake pads wear out over time and should be replaced when necessary. Worn brake pads can reduce stopping power and cause a screeching noise when braking. Check your brake pads regularly and replace them when the wear indicator indicates.

Clean brake rotors frequently

Brake rotors can become dirty with mud, dust, or oil, which can affect stopping power. Clean the brake rotors with a clean cloth and isopropyl alcohol after each ride.

Adjust the tension of cables or hoses

The tension of the disc brake cables or hoses must be adjusted correctly for them to function correctly.

• If the tension is too low, the brakes may not work properly.
• If the tension is too high, the brakes may be difficult to apply.

Consult your bike's user manual to find out how to adjust the tension of the cables or hoses.

Take the bicycle to a specialized workshop for an annual inspection

It is recommended to take the bicycle to a specialized workshop for an annual inspection. At the inspection, a qualified mechanic will check the disc brake system and give you maintenance tips.

Conclusion

Bicycles with disc brakes have revolutionized the world of cycling. They offer a number of advantages over bicycles with rim brakes, such as greater braking power in all weather conditions, better braking modulation and control, greater safety, less tire wear and longer brake pad life.

If you are looking for a bicycle that offers you greater safety, control and performance, a bicycle with disc brakes is the best option for you.

However, bicycles with disc brakes also have some disadvantages, such as a higher price, greater weight, more complex maintenance, noise when braking, and less compatibility with certain accessories.

In this Shad Bikes article, we have explained in detail what bicycles with disc brakes are, their advantages and disadvantages, the types of disc brakes that exist, how to choose a bicycle with disc brakes and how to keep them in good condition.

Shad Bikes Expert Opinion

At Shad Bikes, we believe that disc brake bikes are the future of cycling.

If you are looking for a bicycle that offers you greater safety, control and performance, a bicycle with disc brakes is the best option for you.

Bicycles with disc brakes offer a number of advantages over bicycles with rim brakes, such as:

• Greater braking power in any weather condition: rain or mud will no longer be a problem for your safety.
• Better braking modulation and control: you will be able to dose the braking force more precisely, avoiding skidding and improving the control of your bicycle.
• Greater safety: greater power and better braking modulation translate into greater safety for the cyclist.
• Less tire wear: Disc brake pads do not rub on the rim, so the rim will last longer.
• Longer brake pad life: Disc brake pads are more resistant to wear than rim brake shoes.

We encourage you to visit our website and discover all the accessories we have for your bicycle.

Enjoy your routes with the peace of mind of knowing that your bicycle is equipped with the best accessories!