Should I Buy a Road Bike with Rim Brakes?

The choice between a road bike equipped with rim brakes and one with disc brakes often comes down to personal preference, budget, and intended use. There is no reason to disqualify a rim-brake-equipped bike, and they can be a solid and economical option for riders who prioritize simplicity, reliability, and affordability.

Why Rim Brakes Are a Good Choice

Rim brakes, when set up correctly, work very well and require only simple, periodic maintenance. The pads are easy to replace and can last for many years with proper care. This makes them a reliable choice for the average rider, especially those on a budget or those who want to avoid the complexity and cost of disc brakes.

My Experience with Rim Brakes

I have two road bicycles with rim brakes, and I recently upgraded from generic "alloy rim brakes" to Shimano 105 rim brakes. These brakes, costing $94 per pair, are a worthy investment. They feature adjustable toe-in, enhancing braking performance and comfort. The generic "alloy" rim brakes, priced at $26 per pair, are single-pivot brakes, which still work well when adjusted correctly. However, having adjustable toe-in is a significant improvement.

Rim vs. Disc Brakes: A Comparison

Specialized Giant and Trek offer road bicycles with the option of rim brakes or disc brakes. For example, the Trek Domain AL2 provides this choice with mechanical-disc brakes as an option. This model, with rim brakes, is priced at $1100 and comes equipped with a Shimano Claris 8-speed groupset. Alternatively, you can opt for the Disc version of the same model, which includes Tektro 550 mechanical disc brakes and a Shimano Claris 8-speed groupset, priced at $1200.

When I had Tektro 550 mechanical disc brakes on one of my bikes, I suspected the brakes were dragging. I replaced them with Shimano BR-M375 mechanical brakes for $130, and the difference in performance was significant. The bike felt faster and stopped better, demonstrating the worth of investing in better brakes.

While disc brakes offer better performance in many scenarios, if I had to choose between a Tektro Disc-equipped Trek Domain AL2 and the rim brake version, I would opt for the rim-brake version for its simplicity and reliability.

Step Up to Better Brake Options

If you're willing to invest more, you can opt for good hydraulic disc brakes and a higher-quality groupset. The Trek AL4 Disc Tiagra 2x10, for instance, is priced at $1800 and offers better overall performance and reliability.

Conclusion

No matter what type of brakes you choose, good maintenance is the key to safe and enjoyable riding. Rim brakes, when maintained properly, can provide excellent performance and reliability. They are a solid option for many riders looking for a cost-effective and easy-to-maintain setup.

Remember that the bike you choose should suit your riding style, budget, and long-term goals. Whether you decide on rim or disc brakes, ensure that they meet your needs and provide the performance and reliability you require.