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