Brake callipers

Brake callipers - make the right choice with the shop SportanoBrake callipers are a key component of a bicycle's braking system. Their main function is to generate pressure on the brake discs or wheel rim, which results in braking the bicycle. Depending on the type of bike, riding style and individual preferences, different types of brake calipers may be more suitable for specific applications. In the Sportano shop you will find high-quality brake calipers from renowned brands such as Shimano and ACCENT.Types of calipers on bicycles: from traditional to hydraulicFrom the world of bicycles, there is a wide range of brake calipers to suit a variety of needs and technical specifications. Calipers, although inconspicuous, are crucial to the safety and braking performance of a bicycle. Traditional callipers, also known as shoe brakes, work by pressing rubber pads directly against the rim of the wheel. They are simple in design, easy to operate and service, and usually cheaper to buy. Although they work well in many applications, they can have limited braking capabilities in difficult conditions such as rain or mud. Disc brakes are a more modern alternative that have grown in popularity over recent years. They consist of a metal disc attached to the wheel hub and a caliper with pads that adhere to the disc. There are two main varieties of disc brakes: mechanical and hydraulic. Mechanical brakes use a cable that transmits movement from the brake lever to the caliper. They tend to be simpler in design and less expensive than their hydraulic counterparts. Hydraulic brakes, on the other hand, operate on the principle of transferring force by means of brake fluid through a closed system. When the brake lever is depressed, fluid is pushed through the lines, leading to the pads clamping down on the brake disc. Thanks to this system, hydraulic brakes offer a more linear and powerful braking force and require less pressure on the lever.Construction and components of a typical brake caliperThe brake caliper, regardless of its type, is a complex component made up of many parts. At the heart of the caliper are the pistons that press the pads against the rim or disc. In hydraulic brakes, the pistons are driven by brake fluid, while in mechanical brakes they are moved by a cable. Brake pads are the part of the caliper that directly adheres to the rim or disc. They are made of special materials with high abrasion resistance, such as metallic compounds or organic composites. The pads are crucial to braking performance and must be regularly checked for wear. The caliper body is the main structure that holds all the components together. Many caliper bodies are made of lightweight and strong materials such as aluminium. Other important caliper components are the lines in hydraulic brakes and the cables in mechanical brakes. These are responsible for transmitting the force from the levers to the pistons. In addition, with hydraulic brakes, it is also necessary to have a reservoir of brake fluid to feed the system. Don't forget the various bolts, fixings and gaskets that hold the caliper together and ensure its tightness, especially on hydraulic systems.Application and fitting of calipers to different types of bicyclesMy bicycle, as a vehicle with different uses and forms, requires specially selected brake callipers to suit the riding characteristics and off-road conditions. Choosing the right brake caliper is not just a question of aesthetics, but above all functionality and safety. City bikes, which are mostly used on flat and smooth surfaces, are often equipped with traditional shoe brakes. These are easy to operate, require no specialised maintenance and are usually cheaper to purchase. For many everyday urban cyclists, shoe brakes are perfectly adequate, providing effective braking in typical urban conditions. Mountain bikers often encounter more difficult off-road conditions such as steep descents, mud, sand or stones. In such conditions, braking with high power and precision is required. MTB bikes are therefore usually equipped with disc brakes, which offer excellent stopping power and are more weather-resistant. Among mountain bikers, both mechanical and hydraulic brakes are popular, although the latter is often preferred for its better modulation and efficiency. Road cyclists aim to minimise weight and drag. For them, precise and controlled braking is key. Many road cyclists choose specially designed brake callipers with a low profile and lightweight design. Disc brakes are becoming increasingly popular with road cyclists, especially in racing, where precise braking can be the key to success. For gravel or trekking bikes, which are designed for a variety of conditions from tarmac to light off-road trails, disc brakes are often standard. They offer the versatility and efficiency needed for this type of riding. The final choice of brake caliper depends on a number of factors, such as the type of bike, riding style and the individual cyclist's preferences. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but understanding the use and fit of calipers for different bike types is key to maximising comfort and safety when riding.