Originally Posted by
apollored
Having had only rim brakes on all the bikes I've had, I am interested if and when I get a new bike on having one with disc brakes.
Are they better than rim brakes as I have read that they dont last very long out of the LBS and can still squeal like mad if they arent set up properly.
Which are best?
Thanks
Each one has its advantages and disadvantages.
Can they squeal? Yes. Is there something that can be done about that? Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Do they have more stopping power? Depends on what brakes you're comparing. Do they have more sensitivity? Depends. Can they be overheated to the point of fade and loss of brake power? Ohhh yes
Do they weigh more? Again, depends on what brakes, hubs and rims you're comparing.
For myself, I have one bike with disc (XC-race mountain bike), and three with rim brakes (winter/utility commuting mountain bike, sport-touring road bike, road-racer). I'd be perfectly happy with rim brakes on all four, but the XC bike can't take rim brakes since it has no studs for them.