Disc Brakes Buying Guide
Disc brakes 
have been in popular use with sports cars, but over the last ten years, they have found their place in bicycles as well. Disc brakes are designed to slow or stop the rotation of a wheel by creating friction against both sides of the disc. This is especially useful for mountain bikes which need full braking power for unstable terrain. But like any bicycle component, there is a great variety to choose from all depending on the type and purpose of the bike you ride.
Open Disc Brake System v. Closed Disc Brake System
These two are variations of the hydraulic brake system which shifts bike liquid from the levers to the brake pads. The hydraulic system has proved to have the most braking power.
- The open disc brake system uses a piece of plastic which adjusts itself in the brake lever depending on whether there is any fluid expansion or contraction which can occur due to change in weather.
- This allows the brakes to work in any condition but also prohibits the rider to choose how the brake system is adjusted.
- The closed disc brake system allows the rider to adjust the fluid in the system which alters the distance of the brake pad to the wheel disc.
- This flexibility to adjust the brakes during the ride is a great aid to mountain bikers.
- Heat can affect brake fluid however, something users of the open disc brakes do not have to worry about.
Cable Disc Brake System
- The cable disc brake system was the first type of disc brake system. It is not as powerful as the hydraulic system but it is much less expensive.
- The levers and brake cables work through a caliper mechanism.
Disc Brake Sizes
- The larder the disc, the more powerful the brakes. Downhill bikes have especially large discs because they face the most rugged conditions.
- In order to reduce some weight and aid in self cleaning, the discs have holes in them.
- Disc brake rotors range from 130 to 205 mm in diameter.
Major Manufacturers
Quick Picks
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Avid Elixir CR - Tool-free pad contact point and lever reach adjustments.
- "Top-loading" design for easy changing.
- Refined G3 series rotor (fits standard 6-bolt type hubs).
- Carbon fiber lever.
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Hayes Stroker Ryde - Insulated caliper pistons to isolate high temperatures.
- Superior sensitivity.
- Included rotors fit 6 bolt hubs.
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Avid BB7 - Dual pad adjustment knobs.
- Each kit includes caliper, rotor, adapter, and mounting hardware.
- Included rotors fit 6-bolt type hubs.
- Kit includes adapter for 51mm fits.
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Magura Marta SL - Reservoir is completely hidden in the brake lever.
- Dual piston caliper, 1-piece design for max stiffness.
- Comes pre-bled, ready to bolt on and ride.
- Kit includes lever, line, caliper, rotor, and mounting hardware.
- Use mineral oil for easy and simple servicing.
- Hose length front/rear 800mm/1500mm.
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Avid Juicy Ultimate - Weight-saving titanium mounting bolts and banjo bolts.
- New Avid organic compound pad.
- 6 bolt rotor fits today's common International Standard hubs
- Caliper fits 51mm International Standard frames/forks as indicated.
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Related Guides
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