Choosing your braking system is a key step when buying a bicycle. Brakes influence control on descents, safety in urban traffic, and confidence on rides in the suburbs. In France, where cycling is used for everything from daily commutes in Paris to weekend outings, choosing the right brakes for your needs is essential.
Today, most bicycles are equipped with mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes, with rim brakes becoming increasingly rare. This article will help you understand the differences between these systems, how they work, and the criteria for choosing the right brakes for your needs.
Summary:
Types of brakes
How do brakes work?
Advantages and nuances of each type
Which brakes to choose
Maintenance and upkeep
Conclusion
Types of brakes
Today, on bicycles used in Paris, Île-de-France and neighboring regions, three main types of brakes are found:
Rim brakes (V-brakes)
Simple and economical, these brakes work by clamping the rim with pads. Found on urban bikes and entry-level models, they are only effective in dry weather: in rain or mud, their performance drops significantly, which limits their year-round use in the French climate.
Mechanical disc brakes
Here, the force applied to the lever is transmitted via a cable. The brake pads clamp onto a metal disc (rotor) attached to the wheel hub. These brakes are well-suited for city riding, suburban commuting, and bicycle touring, with the advantage of simple maintenance and the possibility of repairs on the go.
Hydraulic disc brakes
This system relies on a closed circuit filled with hydraulic fluid. When you squeeze the lever, pressure is transmitted through the hose, and the caliper pistons clamp the rotor evenly on both sides. The result: powerful, progressive, and highly predictable braking, even in the rain, downhill, or with a loaded bike.
How do brakes work?
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Mechanical brakes
The braking force is transmitted via a cable. On most entry-level models, one piston moves while the other remains fixed. Braking power depends on the quality of the cable, the condition of the housing, and the accuracy of the adjustment. Over time, the cable loosens and requires adjustment—an important consideration for those who regularly ride in Paris or its suburbs. -
Hydraulic brakes
The force is transmitted by a liquid in a closed circuit. The pistons clamp the rotor evenly on both sides, offering more precise modulation, greater power and reduced effort on the lever: a significant advantage for urban traffic and long descents outside built-up areas.
Advantages and nuances of each type
Mechanical disc brakes
Mechanical disc brakes operate on a simple and reliable principle: the force is transferred from the lever to the brake pads via a cable. These brakes can be easily maintained or repaired on the go; the cable can be tightened or replaced without specialized tools, which is very convenient for cycle touring or daily commuting in the city.
These brakes are less expensive to buy and maintain, which is why they are often found on city bikes, gravel bikes, and touring models. For leisurely riding in the city or suburbs, or for outings in good weather, they are perfectly adequate: braking remains stable and maintenance is simple.
However, they do have some limitations. Mechanical brakes require regular adjustment because the cable loosens and the pads wear down. On most models, the contact between the brake pad and the rotor can be slightly uneven, reducing braking efficiency compared to hydraulic brakes. Furthermore, mud, rain, or frost can affect brake sensitivity.
Hydraulic disc brakes
Hydraulic brakes offer more powerful, progressive, and predictable braking. The force is transmitted by fluid in a closed circuit, allowing the two caliper pistons to clamp the rotor evenly. This enables precise control of lever pressure, a valuable advantage when descending, carrying a load, or riding in heavy urban traffic.
Performance remains consistent regardless of conditions: rain, mud, cold, or snow. This is why these brakes are increasingly chosen for gravel bikes, mountain bikes, e-bikes, and off-road riding, where terrain and weather can vary.
However, hydraulic brakes are more expensive and require periodic maintenance at a qualified workshop. The system needs to be bled to remove air and the brake fluid replaced. Repairs on the road are more complex and require experience, making them particularly suitable for regular cyclists who have their bikes serviced at a specialist shop.
Which brakes to choose
If you use your bike for your daily commutes in Paris, the suburbs or to neighboring towns in Île-de-France, mechanical disc brakes are more than sufficient: simple, reliable and easy to maintain.
For longer journeys or cycle touring in Normandy, Burgundy or Brittany, opt for hydraulic brakes: they guarantee stable braking regardless of the weather and load.
If you often ride in the rain, with luggage or on hilly terrain, hydraulic brakes offer a real advantage in terms of control and safety.
Maintenance and upkeep
Mechanical brakes require regular adjustment of the cable and the gap between the brake pads and the rotor. This can be done yourself, even in the field.
Hydraulic brakes require periodic bleeding to remove air and replace the fluid. The operation is not complicated but requires tools and precision. Use only the fluid recommended by the manufacturer.
For long rides or self-supported routes, it's helpful to understand how your braking system works. Even reliable hydraulic brakes may require temporary intervention if the hose or bleed screw is damaged.
Conclusion
The choice of brakes depends on your riding style, budget, and intended use. Mechanical brakes remain an excellent choice for city riding and leisurely outings, while hydraulic brakes appeal to those seeking maximum control, power, and reliability in all circumstances.
If in doubt, do not hesitate to consult specialists: the experts at Routes and Roads will help you choose and adjust your brakes according to your driving style.
