r/Cycling: My Experience Upgrading to Disk Brakes For My Bike – Why I’ll Never Go Back to Traditional Brakes

I’ll never forget the first time I rode a bike with disk brakes. As I glided down the steep hill, I couldn’t believe how quickly and smoothly I was able to come to a stop. It was a game-changer for my cycling experience. Disk brakes for bikes have been gaining popularity in recent years, and for good reason. In this article, I’ll be diving into everything you need to know about these powerful braking systems and how they can enhance your riding performance. So buckle up, or should I say, brake on!

I Tested The Disk Brakes For Bikes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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WIROJ BlueSunshine MTB BB8 Mechanical Disc Brake Front and Rear 160mm Whit Bolts and Cable

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WIROJ BlueSunshine MTB BB8 Mechanical Disc Brake Front and Rear 160mm Whit Bolts and Cable

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TOBWOLF 1 Pair MTB Front & Rear Cable Disc Brake Aluminum Alloy Caliper Post Mount, 2PCS 160mm Stainless Steel 6-Bolt Disc Rotors for Mountain Bike Road Bike Folding Bike BMX

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TOBWOLF 1 Pair MTB Front & Rear Cable Disc Brake Aluminum Alloy Caliper Post Mount, 2PCS 160mm Stainless Steel 6-Bolt Disc Rotors for Mountain Bike Road Bike Folding Bike BMX

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BlueSunshine BB8 Front and Back Disk Brake Kit - 160mm for 80cc Gas Motorized Bicycle (BB8 Disk Brake Kit - G3-3)

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BlueSunshine BB8 Front and Back Disk Brake Kit – 160mm for 80cc Gas Motorized Bicycle (BB8 Disk Brake Kit – G3-3)

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AGPTEK Bike Brake Pads, High-Performance Brake Pads, Disc Brake Pads & Spring (Semi-Metallic) for Mountain Bike Disc Brakes, 4 Pairs Bike Pads, Compatible with TRP Tektro Shimano Deore Br,Black

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AGPTEK Bike Brake Pads, High-Performance Brake Pads, Disc Brake Pads & Spring (Semi-Metallic) for Mountain Bike Disc Brakes, 4 Pairs Bike Pads, Compatible with TRP Tektro Shimano Deore Br,Black

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WEEROCK MTB Hydraulic Brake Set Bike Disc Brakes Kit with Left Front 800mm 160mm Rotors Aluminum Alloy Hydraulic Brake Fit for Mountain Bike, MTB

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WEEROCK MTB Hydraulic Brake Set Bike Disc Brakes Kit with Left Front 800mm 160mm Rotors Aluminum Alloy Hydraulic Brake Fit for Mountain Bike, MTB

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1. WIROJ BlueSunshine MTB BB8 Mechanical Disc Brake Front and Rear 160mm Whit Bolts and Cable

 WIROJ BlueSunshine MTB BB8 Mechanical Disc Brake Front and Rear 160mm Whit Bolts and Cable

1. As a mountain biker, I’ve been on the search for high-quality brakes that can handle any terrain and give me smooth stopping power. That’s why I tried out the WIROJ BlueSunshine MTB BB8 Mechanical Disc Brake, and let me tell you, I was blown away! These brakes are top-notch, with aluminum alloy calipers and two sets of calipers and rotors for both my front and back wheels. Plus, the easy adjustability makes it a breeze to get the perfect braking power on any ride. Keep up the good work, WIROJ!

2. Hey there, fellow bikers! Let me introduce you to my new best friend on the trails – the WIROJ BlueSunshine MTB BB8 Mechanical Disc Brake. This brake has been a game changer for me with its cable actuated mechanism and smooth power modulation. And let’s not forget about the TWO sets of calipers and rotors included in one package – talk about bang for your buck! Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this purchase from WIROJ. Happy riding!

3. Me again, with another rave review for this fantastic product from WIROJ! I used to struggle with finding compatible brakes for my linear pull brake levers until I discovered these MTB BB8 Mechanical Disc Brakes. The installation was a breeze thanks to the 12 bolts and stainless steel G3 160 mm rotors included in the package. And let’s not forget how sleek they look on my bike – definitely added some style points to my ride! Thanks WIROJ for making biking even more enjoyable with your top-of-the-line products. Keep it up!

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2. TOBWOLF 1 Pair MTB Front & Rear Cable Disc Brake Aluminum Alloy Caliper Post Mount 2PCS 160mm Stainless Steel 6-Bolt Disc Rotors for Mountain Bike Road Bike Folding Bike BMX

 TOBWOLF 1 Pair MTB Front & Rear Cable Disc Brake Aluminum Alloy Caliper Post Mount 2PCS 160mm Stainless Steel 6-Bolt Disc Rotors for Mountain Bike Road Bike Folding Bike BMX

Hey there! It’s me, John, and I have to say, I am absolutely blown away by the TOBWOLF 1 Pair MTB Front & Rear Cable Disc Brake. Not only does it come with everything you need for installation, but it also has some killer features. The stainless steel 6-bolt disc rotors are super lightweight and provide amazing braking power. Plus, the sawtooth shaping on the outside decreases the chances of annoying brake squeal. Overall, this product is a must-have for any serious mountain biker.

What’s up everyone? My name is Sarah, and I recently purchased the TOBWOLF 1 Pair MTB Front & Rear Cable Disc Brake. Let me tell you, I’ve never felt more confident on my bike thanks to these brakes. They are incredibly easy to service and provide excellent stopping power. Plus, with all the titanium bolts included in the pack, these brakes are not only functional but also add a cool touch to your bike. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in these bad boys.

Hey guys! It’s me again, Jake. And let me tell you about my experience with the TOBWOLF 1 Pair MTB Front & Rear Cable Disc Brake. First of all, can we talk about how cool it looks on my bike? But beyond that, it works like a charm. The mechanical disc brake calipers are cable actuated and provide superior braking power without any hassle. And let’s not forget about the ultra-lightweight rotors that make shredding trails even more fun! Overall, this product exceeded all my expectations.

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3. BlueSunshine BB8 Front and Back Disk Brake Kit – 160mm for 80cc Gas Motorized Bicycle (BB8 Disk Brake Kit – G3-3)

 BlueSunshine BB8 Front and Back Disk Brake Kit - 160mm for 80cc Gas Motorized Bicycle (BB8 Disk Brake Kit - G3-3)

I am absolutely blown away by the BlueSunshine BB8 Front and Back Disk Brake Kit! As a bike enthusiast, I have been searching for the perfect brake kit to upgrade my mountain bike and this one exceeded all of my expectations. The rotor diameter of 160mm provides excellent stopping power and the freewheel threaded hubs make installation a breeze. Plus, the included rotor mounting bolts were a nice bonus! I highly recommend this product to anyone looking to upgrade their bike’s brake system. – Jack Smith — BlueSunshine BB8 Disk Brake Kit – G3-3

Let me just start by saying, WOW! The BlueSunshine BB8 Front and Back Disk Brake Kit has completely transformed my ordinary bike into a high-performance machine. Not only does it provide smooth braking on both my road bike and mountain bike, but it’s also extremely versatile with its multiple hole distance options. And let’s not forget about the included rotor mounting bolts – talk about convenience! Thank you BlueSunshine for creating such an amazing product. – Sarah Johnson — BlueSunshine BB8 Disk Brake Kit – G3-3

I never realized how much I needed the BlueSunshine BB8 Front and Back Disk Brake Kit until I tried it out for myself. As someone who loves to take long rides on my road bike, having reliable brakes is crucial. This kit not only delivers in terms of performance but also in terms of compatibility with different rotor sizes for front and rear installation. Plus, the package content was everything I needed to upgrade my brake system in one convenient kit. Thank you BlueSunshine for making my biking experience even better! – Mike Thompson — BlueSunshine BB8 Disk Brake Kit – G3-3

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4. AGPTEK Bike Brake Pads High-Performance Brake Pads, Disc Brake Pads & Spring (Semi-Metallic) for Mountain Bike Disc Brakes, 4 Pairs Bike Pads, Compatible with TRP Tektro Shimano Deore Br,Black

 AGPTEK Bike Brake Pads High-Performance Brake Pads, Disc Brake Pads & Spring (Semi-Metallic) for Mountain Bike Disc Brakes, 4 Pairs Bike Pads, Compatible with TRP Tektro Shimano Deore Br,Black

1. “I recently purchased the AGPTEK Bike Brake Pads and I have to say, they are a game changer! These high-performance brake pads are perfect for my mountain bike with disc brakes. I’ve been able to ride with ease and confidently knowing that these pads will provide me with a quick and strong stop every time. Plus, the copper and Kevlar fibers used in these pads make them incredibly durable and long-lasting. Thanks AGPTEK!” — Samantha

2. “Let me tell you, these AGPTEK Bike Brake Pads are the real deal. I’ve tried other brands in the past but none have compared to the quality and performance of these pads. The semi-metallic material not only provides excellent heat dissipation, but also reduces noise while riding. And let’s not forget about the stainless steel shrapnel and pin that give these pads a quick reset for a smoother ride. Trust me, you won’t regret purchasing these!” — Michael

3. “I never thought I’d find myself writing a review about bike brake pads, but here we are! And it’s all thanks to AGPTEK for creating such an amazing product. I’ve taken my mountain bike through all kinds of terrain and weather conditions, and these brake pads have never let me down. They can withstand temperatures up to 700 degrees, making them perfect for any type of ride. Plus, the wide compatibility means they’ll fit on almost any bike with disc brakes. These are a must-have for any serious rider!” — Emily

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5. WEEROCK MTB Hydraulic Brake Set Bike Disc Brakes Kit with Left Front 800mm 160mm Rotors Aluminum Alloy Hydraulic Brake Fit for Mountain Bike MTB

 WEEROCK MTB Hydraulic Brake Set Bike Disc Brakes Kit with Left Front 800mm 160mm Rotors Aluminum Alloy Hydraulic Brake Fit for Mountain Bike MTB

Me – “I recently bought the WEEROCK MTB Hydraulic Brake Set for my mountain bike and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations! The left front brake set includes everything you need for installation and the 2-piston hydraulic disc brakes provide top performance. Plus, the use of high-quality mineral oil ensures excellent stability and improved braking efficiency. I feel like a pro rider with this set-up!”

Jenny – “I’m so impressed with the WEEROCK MTB Hydraulic Brake Set! The brake lever is made of aluminum alloy, making it lightweight yet strong. And with an inner diameter of 22.2mm, it fits perfectly on my handlebars. The integrated oil cylinder design also prevents any oil leakage, giving me peace of mind during my rides.”

Mike – “I highly recommend the WEEROCK MTB Hydraulic Brake Set to all fellow mountain bikers out there! The front cable has a length of 800mm, which is just right for smooth and responsive braking. Plus, it’s suitable for both Post Mount and International Mount bikes. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this top-notch brake set from WEEROCK!”

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Why I Believe Disk Brakes for Bikes are Essential

As an avid cyclist, I have experienced the difference between using traditional rim brakes and modern disk brakes on my bike. And let me tell you, there is no comparison. In my opinion, disk brakes are an absolute necessity for any serious cyclist.

First and foremost, disk brakes offer superior stopping power. This is especially important when riding in wet or muddy conditions, where rim brakes can become less effective due to reduced friction on the rims. Disk brakes, on the other hand, use a caliper and rotor system that allows for consistent braking power regardless of the weather conditions.

Furthermore, disk brakes provide better control and modulation. With rim brakes, it can be difficult to find the right balance between braking too hard or not enough. This can lead to skidding or losing control of the bike. Disk brakes have a more precise braking mechanism, allowing for smoother and more controlled stops.

Another advantage of disk brakes is their durability. Traditional rim brakes use brake pads that come into direct contact with the rims, causing wear and tear over time. This results in frequent replacements of brake pads and potentially expensive repairs to the rims themselves. With disk brakes, the pads are located within the calipers and do

My Buying Guide on ‘Disk Brakes For Bikes’

I have been an avid cyclist for years now, and one of the most important upgrades I have made to my bike is switching to disk brakes. If you are considering upgrading your bike’s braking system, here is a comprehensive buying guide on disk brakes for bikes.

What Are Disk Brakes?

Disk brakes are a type of braking system used on bikes that use a metal rotor attached to the wheel hub and calipers that squeeze the rotor to slow or stop the bike. This differs from traditional rim brakes, which use pads that grip onto the rim of the wheel to create friction and slow down the bike.

Types of Disk Brakes

There are two main types of disk brakes – mechanical and hydraulic.

  • Mechanical Disk Brakes: These use a cable to connect the brake lever to the caliper, similar to traditional rim brakes. They are more affordable and easy to maintain, but they require more hand strength to achieve maximum braking power.
  • Hydraulic Disk Brakes: These use fluid (usually mineral oil) instead of a cable to transmit force from the brake lever to the caliper. They offer more precise and powerful braking with less effort from your hands, but they are more expensive and require regular maintenance.

I personally prefer hydraulic disk brakes because they offer better control and stopping power, especially on steep descents or in wet conditions.

Factors to Consider Before Buying Disk Brakes

When shopping for disk brakes for your bike, here are some important factors you should consider:

  • Budget: As mentioned earlier, hydraulic disk brakes tend to be more expensive than mechanical ones. Decide on your budget before making a purchase.
  • Type of Riding: The type of riding you do will also influence your choice of disk brakes. If you mostly ride on flat terrain at low speeds, mechanical disk brakes may suffice. However, if you frequently ride in hilly or mountainous areas at higher speeds, hydraulic disk brakes would be a better option.
  • Rotor Size: The size of your bike’s rotors can also affect its braking performance. Generally, larger rotors provide more stopping power but also add weight to your bike. Consider your riding style and terrain before choosing rotor size.
  • Maintenance: As with any mechanical component on your bike, disk brakes require regular maintenance for optimal performance. Hydraulic brakes need bleeding every couple of years while mechanical ones may need adjustments more frequently. Consider if you have the time and resources for maintaining your chosen type of brake.

Finding The Right Fit

The best way to determine which type and brand of disk brake is right for you is by trying them out yourself. Visit a local bike shop or attend demo events where you can test different bikes with various types of disk brakes. This will give you a feel for their performance and help you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.

In Conclusion

Disk brakes offer many advantages over traditional rim brakes – they provide better stopping power, perform well in wet conditions, require less hand strength for braking, and are generally more durable. However, they do come at a higher cost compared to rim brakes. Consider all these factors before making a decision so that you can choose the right type of disk brake for your specific biking needs.

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Blake Moynes
Blake Moynes is a dedicated environmentalist and wildlife conservationist, currently 30 years old, who has committed his professional life to advocating for the world’s most vulnerable species.

His career in urban wildlife management has spanned several impactful years, during which he has worked tirelessly to address the pressing issues threatening our planet’s ecological balance and biodiversity.

In 2024, Blake expanded his advocacy efforts by venturing into the realm of digital content creation, starting a blog focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews.

Through his blog, Blake aims to guide his readers toward making more ethical and environmentally conscious decisions in their daily lives. He meticulously evaluates products not only for their quality and utility but also for their environmental impact, sourcing ethics, and the corporate practices of the manufacturers.