All about disc brakes: types and maintenance

Disc brakes are the order of the day, so today we are going to talk about what types there are and what maintenance they require to keep our bike in perfect condition.

  

Disc brake types

Disc brakes vary according to their actuation and according to the cycling mode, we are going to talk about both types below:

  • Depending on their actuation, there are two universal disc brake systems depending on the actuation technology: hydraulic and mechanical.
The most widespread system is the hydraulic disc brake system, this braking circuit is filled with brake fluid that is pumped from the brake lever to the caliper. The braking is more progressive and modulated, it goes from less to more and avoids locking the wheels for better control.
Mechanical disc brakes, on the other hand, have a traditional braking cable. Their braking is more abrupt, less progressive. They tend to lose feel, but the repairs and adjustments they require are simpler.

 

 

 

  • The other criterion we found to classify disc brakes is according to the type of cycling we practice.
In the case of the Mountain BikeThe standard disc brakes range from 160 to 220 mm, and the lever is straight and adjustable in reach. In addition, it is also possible to improve the power with four-piston models.
In the ROAD BIKESThe most recent road disc brakes have their own peculiarities, in terms of levers, caliper size and disc diameter. They are smaller than MTB brakes (140 and 160 mm) and the floating type is gaining ground over the rigid type, with a more extended and opaque center piece and fins to dissipate heat better (Shimano's Ice technology).
And, on Gravel bikes, disc brakes are similar in size and technology to road bikes, using the same type of lever for the hook handlebar. But their disc diameter is usually larger, 160 or 180mm. In addition, the brake levers have a different design and ergonomics that generate a better finger grip, sacrificing a little weight.

 

 

Disc brake maintenance

Proper maintenance of disc brakes requires specific care. Within this care, pad replacement and fluid bleeding are the most important operations to be performed.

 

 

First of all, in order to replace the brake pads, we must take into account that the compound of the brake pads gradually disappears in the friction with the disc, this implies that we must check its condition every two or three months. When the pad thickness is less than 1mm, we should consider changing it, and if it is less than 0.5mm, we should replace it immediately, since the metal support of the pad would start to rub against the disc, thus damaging its braking track. You can change the brake pad at home without complications.

After each brake pad change you should pedal and touch the brake from low to high repeatedly in a flat and quiet place until the feel hardens.

 

Bleeding should be done once a year, regardless of how much you use the bike. This is because the brake fluid loses its properties with or without use, so we must remove the old fluid by pumping it with new fluid from the lever to the caliper outlet. This can be done at home without any problems as long as you have two small hoses, a funnel and brake fluid.

 

On the other hand, we must take into account the centering of the calipers, since heavy braking, shocks, falls or the use of the bike can cause a misalignment in the attachment of the caliper to the frame or fork. This causes the pads to be off-center with respect to the disc, which generates friction, even if we do not apply the brake. To center the calipers to avoid the annoying noise and reduce wear, you must loosen the caliper retaining bolts. Then move it and center it slightly, tightening at the same time the lever to realign them with the disc, and tighten the screws again, alternating this tightening so that it is uniform on both sides.

 

 

It is essential that before starting each route you make sure that brakes with discs, calipers and levers are clean, this will help you to ride more efficiently, safely and will add years of useful life to your bike. Just get in the habit of cleaning with soap and water after every ride, but avoid getting it inside the caliper. The caliper should be cleaned monthly by first removing the pads.

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