Originally Posted by
AlanK
That's the issue I'm 'wrestling' with. I'll be building around a Surly Troll frame, which, like most Surly frames, is designed to be ultra-versatile and practical (isn't that why we love them). I'm not opposed to new technologies as long as the practical advantages aren't outweighed by the practical disadvantages.
Since I'll be using the bike mainly for touring, I'm not sure discs would be worth the additional expense and complexity (albeit minor). Since I won't be doing that much stop-and-go peddling, I don't know if I can justify the overall cost. That being said, if disc brakes will significantly extend rim life, it might be worth it in the long run.
i just built up my tourer, using mostly pre-loved parts off the old bike (cracked frame). new frame was disc only. so now i've got the original deore v-brakes up front, and BB5 rear. [would have preferred to keep the old setup, but no other frames available.] cost of the brake+rotor was only $20, but had to buy a new rear wheel. if you're starting from scratch, cost should be similar.
install and setup was fairly easy, in fact i think it might even be easier to adjust a disc - assuming the rotor is straight. it's mechanical, so using the same cable/housing (jagwire) and levers (tektro) as with v-brakes. no worries about leaking hoses or bleeding fluid. i carry the small torx wrench, no bigger than a hex key, on tour. (although should be able to adjust the large dial by hand if needed)
braking feels essentially the same in most conditions. a little better in wet. i can't say whether there would be more of a difference if the disc were on the front.
one advantage is in sticky mud that clings to the tires....it won't gum up as with v-brakes.