Thinking about converting my road bike front brake from caliper to disc by swapping out the fork and using a mechanical disc. I would leave the back a caliper brake. Obviously, I'd also need a front disc wheel. Any thoughts? Thanks.

It's a reasonable approach comparable to how cars when to disc/drum braking when disc brakes first started going mainstream decades back.

However it won't be cheap when you consider the cost of both a fork and wheel switch. Take a look at the cost, and compare to buying a new bike closer to what you want, and selling this one, or keeping it as a B bike.

Thanks FB. I know it will be expensive, but I have an expensive bike (Parlee Z5), which I like.

People used to do that with mountainbikes ten or so years ago (it was affectionately called "the mullet") as discs only forks became more common.

I think besides cost, your main problem will be finding a fork that fits your frame. To keep the same ride characteristics, you will have to match both axle-to-crown length and offset/rake. Most aftermarket disc forks right now are aimed at CX bikes and may not play nice with your bike's geometry.

I've done (and still) have this on several MTB's and a road bike. Agree with the road bike having to use a CX fork, in my case I used a Lynskey Endurance fork, this has raised the front end significantly, not an issue for my intended bike purpose as it's used for long distance events.

Another issue with disc forks, is most are for tapered headset, the Lynskey along with a few others are 1 1/8th" but there are less of these than tapered ones on the market. What is the spec of your frame? Will this limitation cause an issue?

I think you'll end up with a bike that's heavier with no benefit. What's your issue with the current rim brake?

pros seem to be quite fast by not braking ..

I suggest N+1 , why not get the Disc brakes on a Cross Bike so you have a wider tire and Mudguards fitting capacity as well ?

Trek 720 perhaps? 720 Disc - Trek Bicycle

the fork bags are big enough to carry a Growler in each

Thanks all.

In answers to questions/comments:

- Don't know the spec on the frame, but Parlee guys very helpful - I'm sure they'll know which forks I can/can't use.

- Issue w/my brakes: They suck w/carbon wheels, especially if it gets wet, and on long descents.

- Thinking about just getting a cx bike. A little concerned re weight.

Can't argue with that. Which is why I don't use my carbon wheels in the wet. I was going to suggest a pair of light aluminum wheels for that purpose, but then you're swapping out brake pads every time...

I'd look at a CX bike. I personally hate riding in the rain without fenders and like having a "rain bike." With a road wheelset/tires you should be able to get a pretty light CX bike.