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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.

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.