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Disc Brake |
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Buying info
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Fork
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Full Suspension
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Hardtail
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1 The Rotor or Disc:
The rotor is normally manufactured from stainless steel. The
rotor acts as the braking surface for the brake calliper. It
effectively replaces the braking function of the rim in a
conventional brake set-up. Six hole drillings have become the
standard fixing method. Larger rotors give greater stopping
power.
2 The Brake Hose:
On hydraulic systems the brake hose contains either DOT4 or
mineral oil, depending on the manufacturer's choice. On
mechanical disc brakes the brake hose is replaced with
conventional brake outers and contains a standard brake cable.
3 The Calliper:
The calliper is anchored to the fork / frame via two fixing
bolts. Pulling on the brake levers pushes hydraulic fluid into
the callipers, pushing the pistons and the pads towards the
disc, creating the braking force.
4 The Fixing Bolts:
Allen and Torx bolts are the most common method of attaching
the disc to the hub. Always follow the manufacturers
guidelines for installation and torque settings. Be careful
not to strip or snap the heads of the bolts.
5 The Bleed Nipple:
This is where you get hydraulic fluid into and out of the
system via the bleed nipple.
6 The Piston:
Lightweight alloy pistons in the calliper are worked by the
fluid in the hydraulic system, or a helix in a mechanical
brake, and move the brake pads towards the rotor. Open systems
have self-modulating pistons that maintain a constant distance
between the pads and the rotor. A closed system and mechanical
system use springs to return the pistons / pads to the rest
position and do not compensate automatically for pad wear.
7 The Brake Pads:
Just like normal V brake pads, disc brake pads are available
from a variety of manufacturers. Pads are not usually
interchangeable between different brake systems, so it's
important to get the right ones for your system. You can buy
brake pads with different compounds to suit the individual
needs of the rider or the conditions. Swapping pads can
dramatically alter the characteristics of the brake, so have a
go.
8 Pad Retaining Pins:
Split-pins and Allen bolts are common, while some
manufacturers use small spring clips on the back of the pads
to fasten them securely in place. They are a very important
part of the set-up, forget to re-place them and as soon as the
brake is applied they will shoot out. |
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Will I need to buy
new brake levers ?
If you buy hydraulic disc brakes, then the system will
come with the levers and callipers. Mechanical disc-brakes
use a conventional brake cable so it is simply a case of
attaching your brakes to your existing V-brake levers.
This option is worth considering if your shifters and
brake levers are all one unit. |
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Why buy disc brakes ?
The main advantage of disc brakes over conventional V's is
the consistency of braking performance. Because the
braking action is taken away from the rim and concentrated
at the disc, the entire system is less affected by the
elements. Mud clearance take on a new meaning, while
buckles and dints in the rims are no longer an issue.
Another plus is that most hydraulic systems are virtually
maintenance free, so leaving the bike covered in shit will
not damage the braking system, but it will knackered the
rest of your bike. |
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