I ride both rim and disc brakes and have no issues with either. Rim brakes offer lower cost, lighter weight, and simple setup, all real advantages. But hydraulic discs are on another level. The lever feel is feather-light, the stopping power is stronger in every weather condition, and they stay dialed in for far longer. I built a bike with hydraulic discs more than two years ago and haven’t had to adjust a thing since. The brakes are still as strong and predictable as day one, if not better now that they’re fully bedded in. Modulation isn’t a problem (stop typing!). Modern hydraulic systems are smooth, precise, and confidence‑inspiring.

Do I need disc brakes? No. Do I want them? Absolutely. Once you ride a good hydraulic disc setup, it’s hard to go back.

No white knuckles on this 18 hair-pin descent with disc hydraulics. Feather-light.