Brakes

Brake

For maximum riding enjoyment on your bike, it is important that you can brake safely, in a controlled and modulated manner - regardless of whether you are riding in city traffic, on a downhill track or on country lanes. Here you will find the right brake for every bike as well as accessories, tuning and spare parts for the best performance. Browse the shop now or read on below to find out what types of bike brakes there are and what you should keep in mind when buying them. 

Bicycle brakes: The different types

Bicycle brakes are available in very different designs. A few decades ago, bicycles were usually equipped with spoon brakes (also known as plunger brakes) in addition to the back-pedal brake. When the brake lever was actuated, a thick rubber pressed onto the front tyre. Technology, and therefore safety, is now much more advanced. Today you will usually find disc brakes or various types of rim brakes on bicycles.

Disc brakes for bikes

With disc brakes, you can brake in a controlled and reliable manner and only have to apply a small amount of force. They work much better in the wet and do not wear out the rims. In our shop you will find disc brakes from Magura, Shimano and many other top brands via the filter. You can also easily filter for brakes in a complete set or for front and rear brakes.

You have the choice between mechanical and hydraulic disc brakes. Mechanical disc brakes work with a Bowden cable. Hydraulic disc brakes work with brake fluid, which transfers your manual force to the brake pads. We explain the differences and advantages in more detail in the disc brakes shop category.

Types of rim brakes: The side-pull brake

The side-pull brake is considered the classic rim brake and was standard on road bikes for a long time. It has a kind of U-shaped metal pincer that reaches around the tyre and is pulled together using a Bowden cable. The brake pads are pressed onto the rim flanks, where they develop their braking effect. Overall, side-pull brakes are considered to be light and reliable.

Types of rim brakes: The V-brake

Probably the best-known type of rim brake is the V-brake. The brake pads are located on long lever arms that are mounted on cantilever bosses on the frame or fork and are pulled together directly by the brake cable above the tyre. The long levers ensure good braking performance. If low purchase costs, low weight and easy maintenance are important to you, a V-brake on your bike is a good choice.

Types of rim brakes: The cantilever brake

Cantilever brakes are also rim brakes. They have two individual brake arms, which are also known as cantilevers. The two brake arms are connected above the tyre with a cross cable, which is pulled upwards by the actual brake cable. The advantages of cantilever brakes are their low weight and low cost. As the design offers plenty of space for tyres and mud, "cantis" were traditionally often fitted to cyclocross bikes.

Purpose: Brakes for road bikes, MTB and everyday use

While disc brakes have been standard on mountain bikes for many years, they have now also become widespread on everyday and road bikes. Whether off-road, on tarmac or old town pavements: They demonstrate their advantages in all situations. Because with disc brakes, you can brake with pinpoint accuracy and they offer you strong braking power and safety even in poor weather conditions.

Rim brakes are often fitted to classic road bikes because they are very light and easy to fit. Last but not least, this is also a question of taste and style. If you are looking for new brakes for your city bike, rim brakes can be a favourable option. Many older bikes do not have disc brake mounts. A modern rim brake is then the best choice.

Brake mounting on frame and fork

Whether disc or rim brakes: The type of brake you can install on your bike generally depends on what your frame and fork are prepared for. In some cases, you can mount disc brakes on other mounts with the help of adapters. Rim brakes should be selected appropriately. The following mounting types are common.

- Disc brake: post mount

- Disc brake: flat mount

- Disc brake: International Standard (IS)

- Rim brake: cantilever boss (for V-brake and cantilever)

- Rim brake: central brake boss (for side-pull brakes)

Wear on bicycle brakes

Some brake system components are wearing parts on bicycles. Therefore, check the brake function regularly and replace the brake pads when they are worn. Also keep an eye on the wear on your brake rotors and rims! You can find the right rim brake pads and disc brake pads for your bike in our shop.