The time I rekindled my love for biking with a set of classic rim brakes

[AndrewGronow]

Are classic rim brakes truly less efficient than modern disc brakes in real-world riding conditions, or is this a myth perpetuated by the industry to drive sales of more expensive components? Its often said that disc brakes offer better modulation and more consistent performance in wet conditions, but how much of a difference does this really make for the average rider who isnt racing at the professional level?

Is it possible that the perceived advantages of disc brakes are largely due to the fact that theyre often paired with more expensive, high-end bikes that have better overall build quality and more precise tolerances? Could it be that the actual difference in braking performance between rim brakes and disc brakes is relatively small, and that other factors such as tire choice, wheel quality, and rider technique play a much bigger role in determining overall safety and control?

Furthermore, are the benefits of disc brakes worth the added weight, complexity, and maintenance requirements? Rim brakes have been around for decades and have a proven track record of reliability and simplicity, so is it really necessary to switch to disc brakes for anything other than extreme downhill or high-speed mountain biking?

Its also worth considering the environmental impact of the cycling industrys push towards disc brakes. The production and disposal of disc brake components likely has a significant environmental footprint, so is the added performance really worth the cost to the planet? Or are we just being sold a bill of goods by the industry and its marketing machines?

Ultimately, is the move towards disc brakes a case of genuine innovation and progress, or is it just a way for manufacturers to drive sales and differentiate themselves in a crowded market?

 

[jim mccycle]

While disc brakes can offer better performance in wet conditions and improved modulation, the difference may not be significant for the average rider. The perceived advantages of disc brakes might be due to their association with high-end bikes and precise tolerances. Other factors like tire choice and rider technique can greatly impact safety and control. The added weight, complexity, and maintenance of disc brakes should also be considered. Environmentally, the production and disposal of disc brake components have a larger footprint. It's essential to weigh the benefits against the potential drawbacks. Ultimately, the move towards disc brakes may be driven by a combination of innovation, sales, and differentiation in the market. ‍‍

 

[Jester]

Sure, let's dive into this braking debate! It's true that disc brakes can offer better modulation and wet-weather performance, but are those advantages really worth the extra cost, weight, and maintenance?

As you pointed out, those fancy disc brakes usually come equipped on high-end bikes with top-notch build quality. So, are we paying for better brakes or just the bling factor?

And what about tire choice, wheel quality, and rider technique? Could it be that mastering these factors can give us even better braking performance than solely relying on disc brakes?

Don't forget the environmental impact of disc brakes! The production and disposal of those components might leave a bigger footprint than we think.

So, are disc brakes a game-changer or just a marketing gimmick? Perhaps it's time for us cyclists to focus on refining our skills and optimizing our existing gear before jumping on the latest bandwagon.

 

[drmrd]

Disagreeing with the notion that rim brakes are significantly less efficient, it's crucial to consider that perceived advantages of disc brakes might stem from their association with high-end bikes. The actual braking performance gap may be modest, overshadowed by factors like tire choice, wheel quality, and rider technique.

Weighing the benefits against the perceived drawbacks, disc brakes' added weight and complexity might not be justified for the average rider. Rim brakes' reliability and simplicity have proven themselves over decades, making them a solid choice for various cycling conditions.

Lastly, the environmental impact of the cycling industry's push towards disc brakes is a valid concern. Is the performance boost truly worth the environmental cost? The industry should prioritize sustainable practices and consider the long-term consequences of promoting disc brakes.

 

[*.exe]

While disc brakes do have their advantages, it's important to consider the whole picture. Yes, disc brakes may offer better modulation and more consistent performance in wet conditions, but how often do the average riders find themselves in such conditions? And when they do, are the benefits of disc brakes truly significant enough to justify the added cost and complexity?

It's also worth noting that rim brakes have been around for decades and have proven their reliability and simplicity time and time again. Rim brakes have been used in professional racing for years, and many cyclists continue to prefer them for their lightweight and low-maintenance design.

Additionally, the perceived advantages of disc brakes may be exaggerated by the fact that they are often paired with high-end bikes that have better overall build quality and more precise tolerances. This can make it difficult to isolate the benefits of the brakes themselves from the other factors that contribute to the overall performance of the bike.

Furthermore, the move towards disc brakes has environmental implications to consider. The production and disposal of disc brake components likely have a significant environmental footprint, and it's worth asking whether the added performance is really worth the cost to the planet.

Ultimately, the decision to use rim brakes or disc brakes should come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the rider. While disc brakes do have their advantages, it's important to weigh these against the added cost, complexity, and environmental impact before making a decision.

 

[dvddobson]

Great food for thought! The comparison between rim and disc brakes isn't just about performance, but also about the overall cycling experience. While disc brakes may offer better modulation and consistency, especially in wet conditions, it's essential to consider the added complexity, weight, and maintenance they require.

Moreover, as you pointed out, the perceived advantages of disc brakes might be due to their association with high-end bikes, which often have superior build quality and precision. This could lead to inflated expectations for disc brakes, while overlooking the impact of other factors like tire choice, wheel quality, and rider technique.

The environmental implications of this shift towards disc brakes are concerning too, with increased production and disposal of components likely contributing to a larger environmental footprint. It raises questions about whether the added performance truly justifies the cost to our planet.

In the end, the move towards disc brakes could be a marketing strategy for manufacturers to differentiate themselves, rather than a genuine step forward in innovation and progress. Let's keep discussing and exploring these aspects to make more informed decisions as cyclists and consumers.