Originally Posted by
rydabent
jyl
Now there you mention one thing that is a huge improvement in my opinion, disc brakes. The main reason I am a great supporter of disc brakes is that they dont ruin what can be a very expensive rim. When the rim is ruined, it also is necessary to rebuild the wheel so it is not just the cost of the rim. Also disc brake rims can be designed for max strength and aero considerations.
The role or not of discs in road racing is an interesting topic. Manufacturers are trying to get discs into road racing. But there are some reasons why they may not belong. Road racers use brakes as little as possible. Aero and weight are very important. Component wear is not important. Mechanics need to be able to change wheels in a few seconds.
But cross and MTB are doing plenty to develop disc brakes.