Are Alloy disk brakes good in a mountain bike good ?

Question

there in the front tire but i was wondering if there a good thing to get or if I should stick to regular brakes

Answer 1

Disc brakes are awesome, or bad, depending on the brakes themselfs, and setup.

I've had 3 bikes with disc, and building another bike with discs. The power and modulation they have, plus being more reliable in mud are a big plus for me.

But, it also depends on which brakes you have. I'm thinking that if your bike only came with front discs, they're probably not very good. Pad rub is usually not a big problem, unless it starts really braking you without pressing the levers. The first rides when you've just installed them might require some adjustment, but once you've fixed them, they're pretty much set and forget. The pads usually last longer than V-Brakes, you don't put much strain on the rim (it can happen on Vs on long descents with rain).

But it depends on your particular brakes.

And, you don't need them. They're better, but not required. If where you ride is pretty much dry climate, and don't do much downhilling, V's are pretty good.

Answer 2

I've been riding a bike with hydraulic Hayes 9 brakes for about three months now. I'm kind of split. The power and smoothness at the lever are awesome.

But it can be hard to adjust drag out of the rotors, and if you accidentally squeeze a lever when the wheel's removed (for example, taking it out of your car at the trailhead), you'll have to reset the piston. It only takes a few minutes, but it's just one more thing to take up your time.

If you're a big rider like me (6'2 195), live in a place with a wet climate or do a lot of downhill, disc brakes can make some sense. Otherwise, eh. They're not essential.

Answer 3

Again it all depends on what and where you are riding. Is it essential, no but it does help in wet conditions as well as heaver set ups. ie. Downhill or Urban free ride bikes. If you are intending the bike for more around town and some on trail I wouldn't bother. Go to your local bike shop and get on a few. Peddle around and use both caliper breaks and disk. Only you know how you ride.

Answer 4

i have them on my bike.. personially i don't really like them.. too much adjustment, too much fine tuning to get them to work properly... i don't find them any better then padded brakes. if i have to do it over again, i would stick with the old fashion baking system..