Best disc brakes for a bike in 2020

The expression "the coward invented the brakes" refers to people who have never been faced with the need to stop in time. This is especially true for two-wheeled vehicles, because in the car the driver is protected by the body of the vehicle, but here you have to take the whole blow.

Our editors have compiled a list of recommendations for choosing and rating the best disc brakes for a bicycle, based on customer reviews and the popularity of the models.

Note! Some worthy modifications were not included in the list due to their low prevalence or inflated cost.

What are the brakes

There are only two main types of disc brakes - mechanical and hydraulic. The differences in work are colossal, so it is necessary to understand the nuances in advance for a more accurate understanding of the topic.

1. Mechanics. The device is a mechanism driven by the force of a cable passed through the line. Such brakes are inexpensive, as a rule, easy to operate, easy to maintain. It can also be said that this option is economical. Due to the relative simplicity of the mechanism, the price is low. The disadvantages of the model include the need for constant adjustment of the cable.
2. Hydraulics. More expensive pleasure. However, the expensive options are really worth the money. As a rule, hydraulic calipers are designed for increased loads, which makes them in demand among amateurs and professionals. Basically, bicycle hydraulics are a scaled-down copy of a motorcycle brake, with no design changes.

How to choose the right one

Inexperienced users scream at the top of their lungs that hydraulics on a bicycle is almost a panacea for all problems. However, there are several important points, the knowledge of which will help to avoid selection mistakes and save several hundred or thousands of rubles.

The first question is price. If you intend to buy a factory model of a bicycle or cheap brakes (up to 4000 rubles per set), you need to think hard about whether the game is worth the candle.

Experts argue that a good mechanical type system performs better than cheap hydraulics. This is due to the quality of the materials used. Mechanical calipers themselves are cheaper to manufacture, so the manufacturer can use stronger material alloys and put solid pads in the "stock". Additionally, with such a system there will be no problems with maintenance - spare parts are always available.

As for the cheapest hydraulics, it is fashionable, pretentious, but ineffective. According to the test results, the most budget models show less compression force than comparable mechanics in terms of price. Also an important factor is the low reliability of such systems.

As a conclusion, we can say that solid mechanical brakes are a much more efficient option than the simplest hydraulics.And the final choice lies directly with the buyer.

Best rating

Below is a ranking of the best bicycle disc systems, based on customer reviews and popularity.

ARTEK ADC-09

Price per set: about 2000 rubles.

The rating is opened by a representative of the most budgetary line of mechanical brakes. The model is distinguished by simple indicators of power, design. The main purpose is operation in a recreational mode on an adult or teenage bike. The weight tolerance does not exceed 75 kg, which is unable to provide a quick stop in an emergency. Users like the unpretentiousness, the ability to quickly repair, due to the elementary design. Another miscalculation of the designers is a small contact patch of the pads, and therefore, the linings wear out quickly.

• minimum cost;
• nice design;
• the possibility of self-repair.

• low efficiency;
• pads wear out quickly.

Tektro M500 F

The price tag starts from 3000 rubles per set.

Next in line is the budget representative of the Tektro company. The manufacturer calls the main advantage of the design a steel case, which a priori excludes mechanical damage after impacts. However, this is also a minus - steel parts provoke a lot of weight, about 500 g.

The efficiency is average. The model is sufficient for everyday walks, infrequent high-speed trips over rough terrain. Square pads of sufficient area are already used here, which allows for good efficiency.

• affordable price;
• durable body;
• good efficiency.

• huge weight;
• there are complaints about the durability of the return spring.

SHIMANO M375

The price tag starts from 3000 rubles per set.

Good mechanics from a renowned manufacturer. The rather high price tag is completely offset by the excellent reliability and efficiency. Some users deliberately use these brakes instead of hydraulic brakes due to superior performance.

The model was originally used for Cross Country racing modes. Later, it was only used on custom bicycles, due to the introduction of more efficient hydraulics in the budget segment.

With regard to characteristics, it is possible to note the extraordinary efficiency and simplicity of design (relative to other models of the mechanical type). Also, users are pleased with the quality of the case - the material is not subject to splitting and overheating as a result of prolonged descents. Therefore, brakes can often be found among tourists or ordinary fans to ride "with the breeze."

The experts, in turn, praise the large selection of pads and spare parts.

Despite the moral obsolescence, the product is still considered the benchmark for its class.

• excellent efficiency;
• reliability;
• are repaired "on the knee";
• reasonable price.

• not found.

SHIMANO M315

Starting price: from 3500 rubles per set.

The list of budget hydraulics is opened by a worthy representative of Shimano. Low cost due to mediocre efficiency. The modification is often used on production bicycles in the middle price category.

The braking force is comparable to the solid representatives of the mechanical type. Therefore, the manufacturer is positioning the product as an excellent alternative to the budget class for novice cyclists.

Experts praise the simple maintenance - even an unprepared user can pump the brakes with mineral water. Good maintainability also stands out - there is a large selection of calipers, presses and internal parts.

Particularly for the user, a pleasant fact is the presence of a comfortable handle. You can press with either one or three fingers.

• adequate price tag;
• good efficiency;
• nice design;
• universal bench press.

• not suitable for heavy loads.

Tektro M206

The average cost fluctuates around 5000 rubles per set.

Next in line is a budget solution for novice cyclists. Good hydraulics can quickly stop the rider when needed. The maximum load is 95 kilograms, which is enough for most users.

Experts call a good quality sufficient modulation, which makes life much easier for beginners. Uniform power transmission ensures the inexperienced rider is protected from wheel blockages that could result in falls.

The design is also worked out, metal presses allow you to use one or three fingers for braking.

The disadvantages are considered to be the low reliability of the system - there are many reviews on the network about breakdowns or model failure when overheating.

• a good option for beginners;
• acceptable price tag;
• good build.

• may overheat;
• not designed for aggressive driving.

Avid Elixir 1

The price tag starts at 5000 rubles.

Subsidiary of Sram Corporation. American technology provides a decent braking force, which guarantees a timely stop of vehicles.

The first generation is designed for beginners and cycling enthusiasts. Brakes can sometimes be found on Cross Country tracks.

Ergonomic presses are equipped with additional adjustment that allows you to precisely set the height of the presser foot according to the preferences of each user.

• attractive appearance;
• good efficiency;
• good selection of pads.

• insufficient for aggressive exploitation;
• some users complain about leaks.

HAYES DYNO COMP

Price: 5000 rubles / set.

A bright representative of the budget price segment from the Haes company. Sufficient efficiency is ensured by the unique design of the main chamber. The model has the minimum characteristics for use in racing modes Cross Country or active rides on forest trails.

The relatively high position in the top is achieved by excellent reliability. The manufacturer gives a lifetime warranty against leaks, which means a lot.

Handle position adjustments are made with a 2.5 mm hex screw over a wide range. You can lower the bench almost to the grips.

Also, users are pleased with the moderate weight - 400 grams one side.

• lifetime warranty against leakage;
• sufficient power;
• wide range of handle adjustment.

• controversial design;
• difficult setup.

TEKTRO HD-M330

The price list starts at 8000 rubles

Medium niche racing brakes from Tektro. The improved model has less modulation, which suggests skillful use. However, inexperienced beginners can fly over the steering wheel due to harsh handling.

The plant has modified the hydraulic lines, now the oil does not expand the lines during strong pressure. The main piston has also been improved. It was the old seal that was removed through which air was sucked into the system.

The manufacturer positions the brainchild as the best option for Cross Country or Trail.

However, some disadvantages remained from their predecessors. There is also a problem with overheating. Under extreme loads, air can enter the system or oil leakage, which is fraught with full pumping.

• attractive design;
• sufficient power;
• line strength.

• there is a tendency to overheat.

Avid juicy 3

Price: from 9000 rubles / set.

An old but very efficient system. Despite the start of production in 2005, brakes remain relevant even after 14 years due to the demand for new and used systems.

The product was created according to the principle “everything ingenious is simple”. The primitive caliper design is complemented by a rudimentary brake lever mechanism that delivers unexpected power.

Due to such characteristics, the model is regularly used by novice athletes and fans of extreme disciplines.And the author himself has repeatedly experienced the reliability of the unit - for 5 years of active operation, no repairs were required, except for the replacement of worn out pads.

• excellent efficiency;
• excellent design reliability;
• nice appearance.

• at the time of this writing, the article is outdated.

SHIMANO DEORE M 6000

The price tag fluctuates around 10,000 rubles.

One of the top versions of the company. Updated in 2017, the model boasts tapered mounts and an updated design.

Improved piston design improves modulation and braking performance. The new caliper is able to work with Ice Tech pads, which maximize heat transfer from the work area to minimize overheating of the caliper.

The set of implemented solutions allows you to apply brakes for aggressive operation without fear of flying off a cliff.

• excellent efficiency;
• attractive design;
• reliability of the caliper.

• price.

Formula CURA POLISH'17

Price: from 15,000 rubles.

The top representative of the Formula brand line. The brakes are a combination of relatively low cost and excellent performance. Often, the modification can be found at amateur Enduro or Cross Country championships.

Competent design of the piston system allows you to achieve a good ratio of power and modulation. This guarantees excellent accuracy in dosing brake power and instantaneous stopping when needed.

The only drawback in the CIS is the almost complete absence of spare parts for repair.

• excellent efficiency;
• high-quality assembly.

• controversial design;
• no spare parts to repair.

Shimano Zee M640

Price: from 20,000 rubles / set.

A popular modification for the budget class Downhill. The four-piston caliper delivers enough power for effective braking, which ensures that vehicles come to a standstill.

Excellent ergonomics combine country and gravity style solutions. A comfortable grooved grip provides ample finger grip, while a rigid caliper design adds power.

Most users praise the system for its simplicity, ease of installation and reliability.

• reasonable price;
• phenomenal vitality;
• excellent ergonomics.

• may overheat.

Avid Code R GS Graphite Gray

Price: from 15,000 rubles

Representative of the top line of Avid. Downhill brakes are equipped with 4 pistons for maximum braking performance. All technologies of the organization are concentrated in one copy. This allows for unprecedented optimization of modulation performance and reliability. The forged caliper body guarantees phenomenal impact and shock resistance. And the design is complemented by the presence of ceramic pistons that are not subject to overheating.

Users love the reliability and low cost. Experts praise the ease of maintenance and setup.

• excellent power;
• easy customization;
• build quality.

• not found.

Each brakes are good in their own way. The final choice depends entirely on the personal needs of the buyer.