Disc brakes?

Question

My bike has 6 inch disc brakes, but i would like to get some nicer brakes (mine are mechanical and dont have great power) and move up to 8 inch. When i buy the kit will i just be able to bolt it on?

Answer 1

If you have a name brand brake such as Avid, Hayes or an other the problem is not that you don't have enough brake its most likely time for new pads, or your rotor is glazed and needs to be serviced. If you do decide to go with new a new brake system the kits normally come with the proper adapters along with new fasteners etc. But before you buy just check your existing brakes first.

For service help on the brand brake you have check here:

http://www.parktool.com/repair/byregion....

EDIT:

You can get bigger rotors but you will also have to get

new/different caliper mounts to relocate the calipers out more due to where the larger rotors brake pad contact area is.

Answer 2

Larger size compensates for greater bike/rider weight (like on a tandem), not more stopping power. In fact too big a disc can cause unexpected locking and an unpleasant little adventure known as an "endo".

Buy a complete hydraulic system of the SAME size. It will bolt on without modification (it's measured by bolt spacing on the rotor like a crankset).  This will give you the added stopping power AND much, much better feel and modulation. Shimano, Magura and Gatorbrake make excellent systems.

Answer 3

i dont think that size matters tht much. its the quality. if i were u i would buy a nicer brand first. cause there is a good possibility tht an 8 inch wont fit... check ur owners manual. if u bought it used im sure the disc is ****.

Answer 4

why not invest in some better pads?this is probably your problem with stopping power,as for the larger discs im sure that you need bolt on adaptors to re locate your callipers and accomodate the larger disc.but i'd just spend a decent amount on some high quality pads.