Disc brakes for mountain biking: the pros and cons

Disk brakes are a mechanism consisting of a disc and pads. They are often used on bicycles, as their use makes it possible to increase the safety and efficiency of this vehicle. However, we must not forget that the braking system consisting of them is not always reliable: it can conceal a certain danger in itself. But the same can be said for any other.

Of course, disc brakes are installed on any type of wheeled vehicle. For the first time they were used in motorcycles, but since it is difficult to cover all areas of their application, this article will only deal with bicycles.

So, we should probably start with a more detailed description of the mechanism of action of the braking system on this type of transport. As already mentioned at the beginning of the article, its main components are steel discs fastened in the wheel hub, in the left part, in the immediate vicinity of the spokes. They are also pressed pads, squeezing them and causing the bicycle to stop when braking. The effort is transmitted using a special cable.

However, the system of a mechanical type works in this way. But the hydraulic disc brakes are somewhat different. They are based on the same details, but they are added to the highway with liquid and special pads that separate the disc from the pads. During braking, the force is already transferred by the liquid. In addition, from the pads it goes over the lining, which smoothly compresses the disc without erasing it.

Thus, the hydraulic braking system is more perfect than the mechanical one.

But let's talk about the history of the introduction of disks in the life of the riders. As already mentioned above, initially they were installed only on motor vehicles. Therefore, mountain bikes with disc brakes appeared at the time when a new and very dangerous sport was invented - the downhill, which is an extreme descent from steep slopes. Evaluating the numerous advantages, they began to use and lovers of quieter bike tours.

But the disc brakes are not completely unambiguous, because they have certain pros and cons. Therefore, a person who buys a mountain bike must decide for himself whether they need it or not.

So, about the advantages:

1. Since there is free space between the brake and the pad, the air can circulate freely, and this reduces the heating of the disc.

2. They are not afraid of any weather conditions: rain and dirt from the road almost do not fall on them, which significantly reduces wear and tear.

3. Deceleration is much more effective than using other types of similar systems.

4. The rim of the wheel is not heated when the vehicle is lowered slowly, it is not damaged by various maneuvers.

5. Even if the rim is damaged, the disc brakes will not stop working.

6. They are durable.

7. They can be put on any tire.

8. They decorate the bicycle.

However, they have disc brakes and minuses. So, they are quite expensive and weigh a lot, they are very difficult to repair, and the pads are replaced rather difficult. In addition, spare parts for them are difficult to find, but you need special knitting needles and a trunk, and oil that gets on the brakes, disables them.