The Workshop
Bike gear, components and upgrades talk
Caliper vs Disk
Which one reigns supreme? And why?
BICYCLE brakes are built for a purpose. And that's to slow down your descent or bring the bike to a full halt on the road.
The principle design of the brakes did not change much until two decades ago with the introduction of vented disk brakes. Back when it was first introduced, disk brakes are very expensive. Basically, there are two types: mechanical and hydraulic. The mechanical disk brakes are made up of a simple mechanism assembly and once the brake cables are pulled, it would activate the brake calipers to grip on the disk rotor.
Hydraulics are the top of the class and provides precision braking and these are mainly used in downhill bikes.
Compared to the mechanical disk brakes, hydraulics are much more complex to upkeep.
And the brake fluid used on the hydraulic braking system are carsenogic.
Caliper brakes on the other hand, are easy to maintain and provide adequate stopping power for bikes that don't demand top-notched performance.
Compared to disk brakes, the caliper brakes are simpler and cost less to maintain. A typical pair of brake pads cost less than
RM20, while it costs three times as much to replace the disk brake pads.
That's why most basic folding bikes would be fitted with a set of V-brakes rather than disk brakes for ease of maintenance.
Purpose-built bikes would offer disk brakes, but these would chalk-up a higher price.
So, before you hit the road, it's wise to check your brakes and make sure that your brake pads are not worn out.
For disk and caliper brakes, its best to get them seen by your service mechanic every three months.