Why do disc brakes need a 203mm rotor?
Why isn’t there a normal International Standard disc mount on the FreeRadical? The short answer is that to do would have required a major change to the design of the Long Stay that the dropout is welded to and a potential loss of strength and a definite increase in cost. We wanted a solution that kept the integrity of the tubing, allowed maximum flexibility of brakes, and gave high-strength high-reliability performance for your Sport Utility Bicycle. This involved placing the caliper 21.5mm further from the hub and requiring the use of a 203mm rotor. This means that a disc brake caliper designed for 160mm rotors will now be in the correct position for a 203mm rotor without any modification or adapters. If a brake system for sizes other than 160mm is used, you will need to get the appropriate adapter to use a 160mm rotor. For example: an Avid system designed for 185mm rotors can use a 160mm caliper mount, available at your local bike shop. Not all brake systems are as modular and adjust