How Do Disc Brakes Actually Work?

Ever wondered how disc brakes on bikes actually work? Are they really better than rim brakes? What's the difference between mechanical and hydraulic discs and what are the pros and cons of disc brakes on road bikes?

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[iteachvader]

I honestly really like the way disc brakes look compared to rim brakes. It projects a sense of premium quality.

[SparkyPlugz]

Sorry but I've always thought disc brakes looked nice on bikes. Especially ones that are different color tones

[RossThompson]

Just here to add another comment stating that disc break sexiness is far superior to rim breaks. Disc breaks look badass. Rim breaks look chintzy and outdated.

[sankethowal]

Disc brakes looks really very sporty on any bicycle, let alone it gives a feeling of being premium

[Deefolt]

You're the only person i know who said that disc brakes are ugly. Disc brakes looks beautiful in any bike.

[Endeva]

To me, disc brakes look way, way better than rim brakes.


Just my 2c.

[ScooterPS]

Please dont tell me discs look worst than rim brakes🙄🙄🙄

[mickgatz]

I'm ol' skool, i only remember rim brakes,
and of course the 'foot' brakes!
Great for doing 'Broadies'! haha

[elmode]

I have 2 race bikes. Rim and disc, the disc breaking power and comfort is just suberbe compared to rim break, especially when you live in wet areas.. on top the disc bike gives you more options to use different tyre sizes...
In my opinion, once you try disc brakes you do not really go back to rim..

[david]

I’m a rim brake purist - if I plow into a wall at the bottom of a wet steep descent - I want to look good doing it

[raphaelkw]

Rim brakes peel off rim paint. If you're looking to paint your rims, disc is what you need.

[AGDesigns]

Thanks for the concise and informative video! I got a huge upgrade to my old Craigslist bike that came with hydraulic disc brakes and it is good to know it is, overall, a better way to break.

[leedorney]

Luv the idea of discs BUT my custom is RimBrake - just like the simplicity of them, an oil change of them is HELL ! They're good on an MTB tho and suited to them 👍

[ritahasgotyou]

But it's not just about how aesthetically pleasing it looks, function also matters.

[TheBodi]

I don't have any problem with the modulation and braking power on my rimbrake road and gravel bikes. I just had to set them up correctly.
Although I have hydraulic disc brakes on my mountain bikes due to worse conditions like water and mud on the trails in the forest, which can eat up the rim fast on the rimbrake bikes.

[jacksongoenawan]

how does the disc brake allow for the piston to “bite earlier”?

[pjm]

I’m thinking about getting a bike. Do you recommend disc brakes or rim brakes? I will be riding in neighborhood on pavement. No hills. No racing. No marathons. And what is the maintenance on disc brakes?

[paragb]

I watching this video on mute as I am forced to be part of boring motivational session (talk of another day). Yet, I am able understand every word that might have spoken in this video. Great representation/graphics on how disc brakes work; math and science behind it. Thanks!

[todorrusinov]

i've never had disc brakes, but with the rim and 24/7 rain in Denmark, i just know when it's whet i have to press the brakes 10 meters earlier to slow down properly.. time to try disc's

[detonater]

I agree with everything EXCEPT you calling them ugly lol. Never heard anyone say that, infact disc brakes makes ur bike look way cooler and expensive.