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Old 01-26-14 | 09:39 AM
  #6  
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tsl
Plays in traffic
 
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 6,971
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From: Rochester, NY

Bikes: 1996 Litespeed Classic, 2006 Trek Portland, 2013 Ribble Winter/Audax, 2016 Giant Talon 4

Now, taking all that into account, I use Continental Grand Prix 4-Seasons on my commuters. I made the choice specifically for their wet weather grip. Once upon a time there was a magazine article with wet grip test results. Accordig to that artticle, 4-Seasons were the best.

That said, I agree that pilot error needs to be taken into account. I've had disc brakes on my four-seasons all-conditions commuter for over six years. They are no more "powerful" than rim brakes. Either type can lock the wheel. Where they shine is modulation--control. They can be very finely controlled through impending lockup. Given their greater control, it's plainly seen that locking them up isn't a failure of the brake, it's a failure of the hand upon it.

So dust yourself off, and get some panic stop practice in. Both to get a feel for the brake, and to retrain your hand. Also, learn how to shift your weight back when stopping. Together, it'll significantly reduce your chances for face-plant. This is good advice for all brake types.
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