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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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~ Buying Info
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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. |
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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