Elusor
08-31-06, 03:57 PM
Is it difficult and doable to change out the brake system from V-Caliper to Mechanical Disc Brakes?
Bicycle Mechanics - V-Caliper to Mechanical Disc Brakes
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Wogster
08-31-06, 04:33 PM
Is it difficult and doable to change out the brake system from V-Caliper to Mechanical Disc Brakes?
If your frame doesn't have the disc mount, then it's possible to leave the existing V-brake on the rear, and put a single disc brake on the front. If your fork doesn't, then you need a different fork that does, and you need a hub that is disc compatable as well (the one you have might or might not be), then you need the rotor and brake. Some mechanical discs use the same cable pull as a V-brake, some may not, if you pick one that doesn't you need at least one new lever as well. Figure at least $100/wheel for cost, not including labour.
Now the real question is why, V-brakes are cheap and reliable, and work fairly well, they eat pads, but have seen pads for under $3 a pair, it would take a lot of $3 brake pads to pay for a disc setup. Discs are also heavier, a disc brake will be at least double the weight of a V-brake.
If your frame doesn't have the disc mount, then it's possible to leave the existing V-brake on the rear, and put a single disc brake on the front. If your fork doesn't, then you need a different fork that does, and you need a hub that is disc compatable as well (the one you have might or might not be), then you need the rotor and brake. Some mechanical discs use the same cable pull as a V-brake, some may not, if you pick one that doesn't you need at least one new lever as well. Figure at least $100/wheel for cost, not including labour.
Now the real question is why, V-brakes are cheap and reliable, and work fairly well, they eat pads, but have seen pads for under $3 a pair, it would take a lot of $3 brake pads to pay for a disc setup. Discs are also heavier, a disc brake will be at least double the weight of a V-brake.