Get Help    
Home > Help Desk > Product Help > Brakes
Brakes

>Disc Brakes

 Why all the hype about disc brakes?

Disc brakes are gaining in popularity. This style of brakes works by squeezing brake pads against a rotor mounted on the bike's hub. Because disc brakes offer more powerful braking, they are typically used on more aggressive bikes, such as those used for downhilling and freeriding.  Some systems are actuated by a steel cable (mechanical disc brakes), while others use hydraulic fluid.

Since the rim surface is no longer used as a braking surface, rims on disc brake bikes can typically be stronger and/or lighter than conventional rims.

How can I tell which disc brake will fit my frame/fork?

To check what size caliper you will need, simply measure the distance between the mounting holes on your fork or frame.  If your frame or fork is disc-compatible, these holes will be obvious on the back of the non-drive side stanchion of the fork and/or on the non-drive side seat tube of the frame.  The distance will be 22mm (Hayes Perpendicular), 51mm (International Standard), or 74mm (Manitou).

In order to use disc brakes, your frame or fork must have appropriate mounting holes. You'll need a set of discs, which are compatible with your frame's mounting holes. Additionally, your hubs must be disc brake compatible so that the rotor can be mounted. Disc brakes are typically sold as a set, which includes the calipers, rotor, and brake lever.

Can I get an adapter to make a disc brake fit my bike/fork?

Most of the time, yes you can.  However this may require a larger rotor so you might want to call our sales department to make sure you get all the necessary parts.
Go Back

>V-Brakes

How do V-brakes work and what bikes are they appropriate for?

The most common type of brakes are still V-brakes. These brakes are typically cable operated and work by squeezing brake pads to the rim. In order to use V-brakes, you need to have the appropriate braze-ons on your frame and fork. Most bikes are equipped with V-brakes and braze-ons as they come from the factory, and can be easily upgraded to different V-brakes if you desire. Any type of hub can be used on a bike with V-brakes, but the rim must have a braking surface.

Will my cantilever brake levers work with my new V-brakes?

Not really.  The two brakes use different levers so that you can better control your stopping.  If you get V-brakes you should also get V-brake levers.

Go Back

>Compatibility

What kinds of brakes are compatible with my frame/fork?

Choosing the right brakes for your bike used to be simple - every bike had cantilever brakes! These days, things are a bit more complicated, but we have also have the benefit of having many more braking options. If you're shopping for a new frame or fork, make certain that it's compatible with the brakes you plan to use. If you're just looking to upgrade your existing brakes, make sure you order a compatible replacement.

You can identify the types of brakes you need by inspecting your frame and fork.  Depending on the make and model, you may have cantilever (v-brake) bosses, disc brake bosses, or both.  If you are unsure what will work with your bike, feel free to call our sales department and we will be glad to help you.

The most common type of brakes are still V-brakes. These brakes are typically cable operated and work by squeezing brake pads to the rim. In order to use V-brakes, you need to have the appropriate braze-ons on your frame and fork. Most bikes are equipped with V-brakes and braze-ons as they come from the factory, and can be easily upgraded to different V-brakes if you desire. Any type of hub can be used on a bike with V-brakes, but the rim must have a braking surface.

Go Back


>Pads – Ceramic, Severe Condition, and Others

What kind of special brake pads may be right for my needs?

There are unique brake pads for all kinds of uses and conditions.  Ceramic brake pads are made of a special compound for use with ceramic-coated rims.  Severe condition pads are designed for rough rocky terrain and extreme weather – they will last longer than conventional pads under these conditions.  Various types of pads for disk brake systems are available for specific needs as well.

Go Back
 



 Price Point @ Myspace   |    Price Point @ BlogSpot   |    Price Point @ FaceBook



Pricepoint.com is the premier internet bicycle retailer for mountain bike parts and road bike parts, including the latest tires, disc brakes wheelsets, accessories, frames and complete bikes at up to 80% discount from retail prices. We also proudly carry an extensive range of cycling clothing, including mountain and road biking jerseys, shorts, cycle shoes and riding apparel.

Along with general Cross Country mountain bike and road bike parts, Price Point carries a wide range of specialty mountain bike parts such as Freeride, Downhill, Trail and All Mountain specific parts along with the ever growing niche market of Single Speed, 29er, Track and Fixed Gear bikes, frames, conversion kits, wheels and tires. As with our general mountain bike and road bike parts, you can expect to find the cheapest prices and widest selection of in stock specialty items ready to ship the same day, from your favorite online bike shop, Pricepoint.com.

Pricepoint is an authorized internet retailer for huge brands like Sram, Shimano, Mavic, Marzocchi, Manitou, Fox, Easton, Bell, Giro, Crankbrothers, Race Face, Avid, Rock Shox, E.thirteen and many others. With over 13 years in business, you can trust that you will get the best pricing, products, and service all under one roof!

Contact us: email  |  Phone: (800) 774-2376
Copyright © 1994-2008 Price Point Mail Order LTD. All Rights Reserved.
Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the
Price Point Mail Order Ltd. Disclaimer, Copyright and Trademark Policy
Shimano Authorized Internet Retailer