Evolution of Bike Brakes
Coaster brakes have remained mostly constant since they were first created. However, the biggest problem with them is the heat generated from the intense friction. These brakes have been known to smoke, causing cyclists to stop frequently on long descents. Caliper brakes are a much better alternative braking system, which originally began using wool pads that slide along rims made from wood. These are most commonly used as road bike brakes. However, the most popular brake today is the disc brake, which is the most common mountain bike brake and has a different mount type to its predecessors.
Types of Brakes
V brakes are ideal for off-road bikes, as they're very powerful even when mud and grime cause problems for other types. Cantilevers are very similar to V brakes, but have an extra cable. They're almost as powerful as V brakes but are less likely to stop performing as a result of mud or other debris building up. Both types of brakes are very easy to replace with a cartridge style system. Caliper brakes work well on road bikes for racing, as they're able to bring you to a halt quickly, but they’re not designed for prolonged rides downhill. Disc brakes are quickly becoming the norm for most cyclists, as they offer a winning combination of control and power. Disc brakes are also unaffected by weather conditions, so there's no need to worry about riding in the rain or through lots of mud.
Best Bike Brakes
- SRAM Guide Ultimate brakes: our recommendation for mountain bikers; these brakes are powerful and adjustable
- Shimano XTR BR-M9020 brakes: very responsive, high caliber brakes; great for intense, suboptimal conditions
- Shimano R785 brakes: recommended for road bikes; these brakes can't be beaten in terms of strength and durability considering their price tag. They're a sturdy, responsive and reliable choice
- TRP Hy/Rd: another great option for road biking; these brakes uniquely combine both hydraulic and cable functions
