Types of bicycle brakes

Over the years, various types of brakes have emerged in the cycling world, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. It's difficult to determine which one is superior, as their effectiveness depends on the specific terrain and riding style. Some brakes are better suited for commuting and highway, while others excel in off-road and extreme sports.

Pedal (drum). The drum brake, named for its internal drum structure within the rear wheel hub, is activated by pressing the pedal in the opposite direction of movement. When the pedal is pressed, the brake pads move apart and make contact with the drum, creating friction. The intensity of the braking depends on the pressure applied to the pedal. Due to its operation, this type of brake is commonly referred to a pedal brake.

This technology has been successfully used for several decades, and many remember it from the time of "Ukraine", "Schoolboy" or "Yew". Now most leisure(city) bikes, as well as all children's models, are equipped with a pedal brake, due to certain advantages:

  • Reliability. Due to their internal design, these brakes maintain their effectiveness even in rainy conditions and are protected from dust and dirt. They function reliably in 99% of cases and are not affected by variations in the rim's condition or alignment.
  • Does not require frequent maintenance. Straight from the factory, these brakes are fully prepared and require no adjustments or component replacements for many years of use.
  • Low cost.

One of the drawbacks of this brake type is its lower efficiency, as it relies solely on the rear wheel for braking. Additionally, the effectiveness of braking depends on the position of the pedals at the time of braking. It requires significant effort to achieve quick stops, particularly for young children. These brakes are commonly used in children's and leisure bikes, where the riding style is relaxed and unhurried.

Bikes with pedal rear brake

Roller. The principle of operation is similar to the drum, but the system is installed outside and is actuated by a cable. The internal roller mechanism pushes the brake pads apart, creating friction against the drum, which leads to braking. This type of brake is known for its reliability and does not require frequent maintenance. However, it tends to heat up significantly, making it unsuitable for prolonged and frequent use. As a result, it is commonly used in leisure city bikes.

Rim. Throughout its evolution, the rim brake has undergone significant changes and now exists in three main modifications: V—brake (vector brake), caliper brake, and U-brake. Despite their differences in attachment to the frame, their operating principle remains the same and is relatively simple. Rim brakes function by pressing the pads against both sides of the rim. The activation of the brakes occurs by pulling the cable through the the brake lever.

Rim brakes continue to be popular due to their affordability and the ease of setup and repair even in the field. While they are primarily designed for a calm and relaxed riding style, they are capable of providing quick stops when needed. Each type has found its application, offering a good balance of efficiency, reliability and cost. V‒brakes are commonly used in bikes for teens, touring bikes and low-cost mountain bikes. Caliper brakes are popular in road and city bikes, while U-brakes are commonly found in BMX.

Bikes with rim brake

The key advantages shared by all rim brakes can be highlighted:

  • Rim brakes do not exert stress on spokes and hubs
  • Minimum heating
  • Ease of set up, repair and maintenance
  • Quick replacement of components

The list of disadvantages is also significant, which imposes certain restrictions on their use:

  • Very low efficiency in wet conditions, when the brake shoes are contaminated with oil, or when the rim is icy.
  • Cable breakage under heavy loads
  • Uneven braking can occur due to the presence of rim wobbles or irregularities.
  • The need for periodic adjustment due to the decrease in the thickness of the brake shoes
  • Rapid pad wear (depending on riding style and more relevant to mountain models)

Disc. The disc brake comes in two variations: mechanical and hydraulic. Its introduction has significantly enhanced riding safety, particularly in extreme riding scenarios. The operating principle, commonly used in cars and motorcycles, is straightforward. A steel disc(rotor) is attached to the wheel hub, while a caliper is mounted on the frame, housing brake pads. When activated, the brake pads are pressed against the disc from both sides. Although the pad diameter is typically small, the efficiency of disc brakes surpasses that of rim brakes. The main distinction between mechanical and hydraulic disc brakes lies in the method of transmitting braking force.

The mechanical disc brake is actuated by a steel cable, and the hydraulic brake is actuated by fluid through a special hydraulic line. Various formulations can be used depending on the manufacturer of disc brakes. For instance, Shimano brand uses its own mineral oil, while other manufacturers may adapt their systems to commonly used brake fluids, including those used in automotive applications.

Disc brakes have gained significant popularity in the MTB (mountain bike) series, but they have also received positive feedback from road cyclists and have been approved by international cycling organizations for competitive events. Both mechanical and hydraulic disc brakes are highly suitable for off-road riding with difficult terrains (steep slopes, pits), forest cycling, as well as high-speed riding on busy streets and sidewalks. They are commonly used in disciplines such as downhill, freeride, and enduro. The benefits of both types are almost identical:

  • High modulation (especially hydraulic ones). This means that the brake pads are more responsive and sensitive to the pressure applied to the brake lever.
  • The highest efficiency (provide minimum stopping distance)
  • Resistant to dirt, dust, water
  • Disc brakes are not affected by rim wobbles or irregularities.
  • Do not wear out the rim

Disc brakes have few shortcomings, and they are largely subjective. The main drawback is the higher price compared to other types of brakes, often several times higher and even more for professional systems. Another challenge is the wide variety of shapes and sizes of brake pads available in the market, as manufacturers offer numerous options. However, this also means that users can find original pads or suitable alternatives. The issue of compatibility can be compared to the time when each phone had its own charging connector. Additionally, disc brakes tend to be slightly heavier, but this is primarily a concern for road bikes.

When considering hydraulic brakes separately, one drawback is the maintenance they require. While hydraulic brakes are generally reliable, if they do get damaged, repairs can be time-consuming as they often involve component replacements and intricate setup procedures. It will be difficult for a beginner to cope with such a task, and in the field it is almost impossible. In other words, goodbye brake.

Basic rules for using the brake system

Even the best brakes won't help if cyclist use them recklessly. The effectiveness of braking largely depends on the experience of the cyclist and the implementation of certain rules:

  • When riding on a flat road, the front brake will be more effective, and the rear can be used as an additional one.
  • For beginners, it is better to use the rear one as the main one, and the front one as an additional one, when descending a slope. Applying the brakes in the wrong order can cause the rider to be thrown off the saddle. In winter conditions, such as on snowy or icy surfaces, applying excessive force to the front brake can result in the front wheel locking up, leading to loss of balance and a potential fall.
  • It is important to avoid using the front brake while turning, particularly in winter conditions. Doing so can cause the front fork to abruptly reverse, resulting in a loss of control.
  • When using a rim or drum system, start braking a little earlier, since their efficiency is lower than the disc system, the braking distance will be longer
  • It is essential to consider the decrease in the effectiveness of rim brakes when riding in rainy conditions or when the rims or brake pads become contaminated with liquids or dirt.

Basic rules for servicing the brake system

  • It is crucial to use proper equipment for your brakes. If any part of the brake system becomes defective, such as after a fall, the risk of failure significantly increases. Regular inspections should be conducted, and any detected defects or rust should prompt the replacement of relevant parts, particularly cables and hydraulic lines.
  • Choose the type of brake to suit your riding style. Do not use rim or drum systems if you plan to race through woods, mountains, or other difficult trails where heavy braking is required.
  • Before riding, it is essential to check the functionality of the brakes. Squeeze the brake levers one at a time and attempt to move the bike from its position. The wheels should remain stationary, indicating that the brakes are working properly.

Ensure regular maintenance and care for your brakes to avoid any unexpected failures at crucial moments during your rides.