Disc brake callipers

The best of braking

Formerly reserved for mountain biking, the disc brake is becoming more democratic and installed on all types of bicycles. Its growing popularity, it obviously owes to its many advantages. Efficient and powerful on all terrains, braking is not hampered by water or mud splashes on the wheel and does not cause premature wear of the rims.

The caliper is the heart of disc braking. It is fixed on the fork and comes (thanks to the plates inside) to tighten the disc (generally made of steel) which is fixed to the rim. If the disc stops, the rim and the bike too!

Disc brakes are generally more expensive to purchase than pad brakes.

There are two types of disc brake:

Mechanical stirrups

It uses the same operation as conventional pad brakes, with its cables sliding in a sheath which pull and compress the caliper (and pads) to the disc. More complex to maintain, it is however lighter than hydraulic models and generally more affordable. We will note all the same a more regular maintenance than for conventional pad brakes.

The first point to check is the alignment of the disc relative to the caliper. If it is misaligned, it will rub on the caliper (and the pads) and thus wear out prematurely. A slight noise that will annoy the most picky cyclists can also appear! Improper installation also affects the performance of the bike and ultimately damages the caliper and the disc. We recommend that you carefully read the manufacturer's manual when adjusting the cable and sheath.

Mechanical brake calipers are more economical to purchase.

Hydraulic calipers

It is no longer a steel cable that pulls and tightens the stirrup. For the latter, the control is done by moving oil in a hose from the lever to the caliper in a closed circuit. When braking, the movement of the lever will push the oil into the sheath and exert pressure on the caliper. Hydraulic brakes are nicer and more reliable. They require little maintenance, except for a small check of the hydraulic fluid level and/or an annual purge or every two years depending on the elevation (novices will turn to a mechanic). During this operation, care should be taken not to spill or splash oil on the caliper or disc (even with your fingers). If this happens, we recommend the Anti-noise and degreasing spray or disassemble and wash the affected parts in boiling water.

Mechanical or hydraulic, disc brakes require changing the pads when they are worn.

Before any installation, make sure that your frame and your fork are equipped with disc caliper support