With the recent inclusion of disc brakes in today's professional fleet, the debate between rim brakes and disc brakes has been heating up. This guide focuses on the main differences between rim brakes and disc brakes, the advantages and disadvantages of each braking system, and whether it is worthwhile to upgrade to disc brakes.

What is the difference between rim brakes and disc brakes?

In addition to aesthetics, the main difference between traditional rim brakes and disc brakes is the location of the applied force. For rim brakes, the braking force is applied by the caliper to the outer edge of the rim itself.

On the other hand, disc brakes move the braking surface from the rim to the rotor. The rotor is mounted on the hub, and the caliper is mounted on the front fork near the axle. This design is more like the one you see on motorcycle brakes and has been used for mountain bikes and off-road bikes for many years because the calipers are less likely to be blocked by dirt.

Another major difference is how each brake system is activated. The rim brake uses a cable system to close the calipers on the rim. For disc brake systems, hydraulic systems are usually used. When the lever is grasped, the fluid pressure will increase, causing the piston in the caliper to move towards the rotor. The resulting friction is the cause of the braking force.

Advantages of rim brakes

Although disc brakes maybe a shiny new toy, the more traditional rim brakes on road bikes still have many advantages:

• Rim brakes are lighter than discs brakes-usually up to a pound.
• Rim brakes are more aerodynamic than disc brakes.
• Rim brakes are easier to repair.
• Rim brakes are cheaper.

Advantages of disc brakes

Including disc brakes in the professional group means that more new bicycle frames are preparing to use disc brakes. Although this seems to be another way to make money because if you decide to switch, you can't use the old road frame with rim brakes, there are several very important benefits of using disc brakes:

• Disc brakes provide greater braking force, which is helpful when going downhill for long periods.
• Disc brakes do not heat the rim. It is well known that when using a rim brake, it will cause the tire to burst when going downhill for a long time.
• Disc brakes can achieve more precise braking, thereby reducing the possibility of the wheel lock.
• In wet weather, disc brakes work better than ring brakes.
• Changing the rotor size allows you to adjust the required braking force.
• It is easier to use wider tires with disc brakes.

WHAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU?

The trend is towards disc brakes. Over time and with the development of better technology, rim brakes may become a less popular choice. But this does not mean that everyone needs to switch to disc brakes immediately. For many of us, sticking to rim brakes, for the time being, maybe the best option.

For example, if you are not buying a new bicycle on the market, switching to disc brakes will require you to purchase a completely different frame, wheels, and components. Similarly, high-end rim brakes may be your best choice for road racers who want to gain a smaller competitive advantage in areas such as weight and aerodynamics.

If you are buying a new bicycle on the market and are interested in improving braking power and performance in inclement weather, you should consider using disc brakes. Although they may be more costly and not as fast, they are safer and can be used with wider tires-this also improves your control, comfort, and handling of high-speed bikes.

After all, the choice is personal. Money, riding style, and ease of maintenance are all factors that should be considered. If you are on the sidelines, it is best to stick to the existing products until the disc brake technology is improved and the cost is reduced. There will always be time to switch in the future.

If you have your own ideas, please contact us(sales1@gofastbicycle.com) to discuss and provide you with customized services.