Bicycle Rear Wheel Disc Brake Conversion Kit
Are you tired of your bike’s old rim brakes? If you’re looking for an upgrade, a rear wheel disc brake conversion kit may be just what you need. Disc brakes offer better stopping power and control, especially in wet conditions. In this article, we’ll discuss the basics of disc brakes and what you need to know before purchasing a conversion kit.
What are Disc Brakes?
Disc brakes are a type of braking system that uses a metal rotor attached to the wheel hub and a caliper that squeezes brake pads against the rotor to slow down or stop the wheel. This system offers better stopping power and control compared to rim brakes, especially in wet conditions. Disc brakes also produce less wear on the wheel rims, which can prolong the life of your bike.
Why Upgrade to Disc Brakes?
There are several benefits to upgrading your bike’s braking system to disc brakes:
- Better stopping power and control
- Less wear on wheel rims
- More consistent braking in wet conditions
- Reduced hand fatigue on long rides
- Less maintenance compared to rim brakes
What’s Included in a Conversion Kit?
A typical rear wheel disc brake conversion kit includes:
- A disc brake rotor
- A caliper with brake pads
- A brake lever and cable
- A mounting bracket and hardware
Before purchasing a conversion kit, make sure that it’s compatible with your bike’s frame and wheel size. Some kits may require additional adapters or modifications to fit properly.
How to Install a Conversion Kit
If you’re handy with bike repairs, you may be able to install a conversion kit yourself. However, if you’re not comfortable working with brakes, it’s best to leave the installation to a professional bike mechanic.
Here are the basic steps for installing a rear wheel disc brake conversion kit:
- Remove the old wheel and brake system.
- Install the new rotor on the wheel hub.
- Attach the caliper to the bike frame using the mounting bracket and hardware.
- Connect the brake lever and cable to the caliper.
- Adjust the brake pads and cable tension.
- Test ride your bike and make any necessary adjustments.
Types of Disc Brakes
There are two main types of disc brakes:
- Mechanical disc brakes: these use a cable to activate the caliper.
- Hydraulic disc brakes: these use a hydraulic fluid to activate the caliper.
Hydraulic disc brakes offer better performance and require less hand effort compared to mechanical disc brakes. However, they are also more expensive and require more maintenance compared to mechanical disc brakes.
Conclusion
A rear wheel disc brake conversion kit can be a great upgrade for your bike, offering better stopping power and control compared to rim brakes. However, make sure to choose a kit that’s compatible with your bike’s frame and wheel size, and consider having a professional mechanic install it for you. With the right kit and installation, you can enjoy the benefits of disc brakes on your bike for years to come.