Types of Bike Brakes

Braking system selection has gotten complicated with all the hydraulic vs mechanical debates, rotor sizes, and pad compound options flying around. As someone who’s ridden and maintained every type of brake system across road, mountain, and commuter bikes, I learned everything there is to know about what actually stops you effectively and what each system is best suited for.

Rim Brakes

Rim brakes are one of the oldest types of bike brakes, working by applying force to the brake tracks on the outer edge of the wheel rim. The two main categories are caliper brakes and cantilever brakes.

Caliper Brakes

Probably should have led with this section, honestly. Caliper brakes are most commonly found on road bikes. They have two curved arms that reach down from a single mounting point. When the brake lever is squeezed, the arms close and press the brake pads against the wheel rims.

Side-pull Caliper Brakes

The most common type—simple, lightweight, and easy to adjust. Most modern road bikes use these brakes.

Dual-pivot Caliper Brakes

Offer more stopping power and better modulation than side-pull brakes. Two pivot points give them a wider stance and more mechanical advantage.

Cantilever Brakes

Have separate mounting points on either side of the wheel, making them compatible with wider tires. Often used on cyclocross and touring bikes. V-brakes have longer arms creating more leverage and stopping power.

Disc Brakes

Disc brakes have become increasingly popular, especially in mountain biking and more recently road cycling. They work by applying force to a rotor attached to the wheel hub instead of the rim.

Mechanical Disc Brakes

Use a cable to transfer force from the brake lever to the caliper. Easier to maintain than hydraulic systems because there’s no hydraulic fluid to deal with. Also more affordable.

Hydraulic Disc Brakes

Use fluid to transfer force, providing more precise braking with less effort at the lever. More powerful and offer better modulation. However, more complex and can be more challenging to service.

Coaster Brakes

Also known as back-pedal brakes, common on children’s bikes and some cruiser bikes. To activate, the rider pedals backward slightly. Simplicity and low maintenance make them ideal for casual riders.

Drum Brakes

Less common but still used on some utility and cargo bikes. The braking mechanism is housed inside the hub, providing excellent protection from the elements. Durable and require minimal maintenance, though heavier and can be more difficult to adjust.

Conclusion

That’s what makes brake selection endearing to us safety-conscious cyclists—the right system for your riding style makes a significant difference. Choosing the right type depends on the type of riding you do, maintenance preferences, and performance requirements. Understanding the characteristics of each type helps you make an informed decision.