Expert Answers
Disc vs. Cantilever Brakes

Chad's Question:
I have a 2000-model GT XCR 4000. I am considering replacing the brake system and would like some input as to the pros and cons of a disc system. Also, could you compare discs vs. a regular system?

— Chad, Jacksonville, Florida

Steve Jones's Answer:

	Steve Jones The author of four mountain-biking books, Steve Jones has logged thousands of miles of trails and backroads. Meet Steve Answer Archive Biking Forums

Dear Chad,

Simply put, the conventional cantilever braking system found on most cross-country mountain bikes will give you more than enough stopping power PER BUCK than any other system.

Unless you are very serious about descending hills at a high rate of speed, disc brakes will not significantly change the quality of your ride. There is, however, an important advantage to having disc brakes over a conventional pad system. The discs have more surface area and therefore afford you greater stopping ability, especially when conditions are wet and muddy. But we all know that when the trail is wet, we should stay off, eh?

	First of all, disc brakes are expensive. You can spend up to $300 PER WHEEL upgrading to a disc system.
	Second of all, disc systems weigh more, around 300-400 grams.
	Third, if you use the hydraulic system, you need brake fluid and its consequent adjustments (like bleeding the air out of the lines).
	Fourth, the learning curve for finding out how the brakes work (some say they are either"ON" or they are "OFF") can produce catastrophic gravity checks.

My experience indicates that the mechanical advantages of a conventional cantilever brake system are enough for most situations that the recreational rider will need. V-brakes (called so because of their direct pulling together of the two calipers without the use of a transverse cable) give great service and performance, even if they are a bear to set up. But even the old-style cantilever brakes provide sufficient stopping power for almost all conditions.