When tackling the long and often steep descents of the UK’s Peak District, maintaining control over your bike is crucial. An essential part of that control lies in the effectiveness of your brakes. However, during prolonged descents, brake fade – a reduction in stopping power – can occur. This is usually due to overheating, which can be a real issue for many riders. So what are the most effective methods of reducing brake fade during these long descents? Let’s take a look.
Understanding Brake Fade
Before we dive into the methods of reducing brake fade, it’s important to understand exactly what it is and why it occurs. Brake fade is caused primarily by the heat generated during braking. When you apply the brakes, the force is transformed into heat energy. This heat then needs to be dissipated to prevent the brakes from overheating.
In a bike’s braking system, the heat is primarily absorbed by the brake pads and the brake discs or rotors. When you ride down a long descent, the brakes are applied continuously, and the heat builds up. This can lead to a significant rise in temperature of the brake pads and rotors, resulting in brake fade.
Brake fade is dangerous because it decreases the stopping power of your brakes, which can lead to accidents, especially on steep descents. Therefore, knowing how to effectively manage and reduce brake fade is essential.
Choosing the Right Brake System
The first step in reducing brake fade is to choose the right brake system for your bike. The two main types of brakes are rim brakes and disc brakes. Disc brakes are generally better at handling heat, making them a better choice for long descents.
Disc brakes have a larger surface area, which allows for better heat dissipation. Furthermore, the materials used in disc pads and rotors are usually more heat-resistant than those used in rim brakes. In addition, disc brakes offer better modulation, meaning you can adjust the amount of braking force more precisely.
However, not all disc brakes are created equal. Some disc brakes are better at handling heat than others. For example, hydraulic disc brakes tend to perform better than mechanical or cable-actuated disc brakes in terms of heat management.
Using the Correct Braking Technique
It’s not just about the equipment; using the correct braking technique can also help reduce brake fade. The key is to avoid dragging the brakes, which means continuously applying mild braking force. This can cause the brake pads and rotors to heat up and lose their stopping power.
Instead, you should use the technique of ‘pulsed’ or ‘feathered’ braking. This means applying a strong braking force for a short period, and then releasing the brakes to allow them to cool down.
Another effective technique is alternating between the front and rear brakes. Most of the braking power comes from the front brake, but using the rear brake can give the front brake a chance to cool down.
Taking Care of Your Brake Pads and Rotors
Regular maintenance and care of your brake pads and rotors can also help prevent brake fade. The brake pads should be replaced regularly, as worn-out pads can reduce braking performance and heat dissipation. You should also clean your brake discs regularly to remove any dirt or grime that can affect heat dissipation.
Moreover, some riders choose to use sintered brake pads, which are metal-based and offer better heat resistance than organic or semi-metallic brake pads.
Upgrading Your Brake System
Finally, if you frequently ride in areas with long descents like the Peak District, you may want to consider upgrading your brake system. This could include larger brake discs, which provide a larger surface area for heat dissipation, or vented brake discs, which allow more air to flow through and cool the disc.
Remember, though, that while these upgrades can help, they’re not a substitute for good braking technique and regular brake maintenance.
With the right equipment, technique, and maintenance, you can significantly reduce brake fade and enjoy safer, more controlled descents in the Peak District. So next time you’re planning a ride in this beautiful region, consider what steps you can take to optimise your braking performance and keep brake fade at bay.
The Impact of Brake Fluid on Brake Fade
An often overlooked aspect that can significantly affect the braking power and brake fade is the choice of brake fluid. Brake fluid plays a critical role in the braking system, acting as the medium that transfers the braking force from the brake lever to the brake pistons.
The type of brake fluid you use can impact the performance of your brakes, especially during long descents. Brake fluid with a higher boiling point is less likely to vaporise under high heat, maintaining its ability to transfer braking force effectively.
It’s crucial to note that brake fluid can absorb moisture over time, which can lower its boiling point and lead to a phenomenon known as ‘brake fluid fade’. This is a specific type of brake fade that occurs when the brake fluid boils in the brake lines, creating gas bubbles that compress, reducing the braking power.
Regularly changing your brake fluid can help prevent brake fluid fade. You should also consider using brake fluid with a high boiling point, especially if you frequently ride in areas like the Peak District with long and steep descents.
The Role of Wheel Size and Mechanical Advantage
The size of your wheels and the mechanical advantage provided by your braking system also play a role in managing brake fade. Larger wheels can reduce brake fade simply because the brake pads and rotors are further from the axle, providing a larger leverage arm for the braking force to act upon. The ‘mechanical advantage’ refers to the leverage provided by your brake levers and calipers, which can amplify the force you apply to the brake levers.
When it comes to wheel size, it’s important to remember that the benefits of larger wheels can be offset if the brake pads and rotors are not sufficiently sized or if the system does not provide enough mechanical advantage. So, if you’re considering upgrading to bigger wheels to combat brake fade, you should also consider upgrading your braking system.
With regard to the mechanical advantage, systems with a higher mechanical advantage require less force to achieve the same braking power. This means that you can modulate your braking more easily without tiring your hands, allowing you to maintain a steady and controlled descent.
Conclusion
Navigating the long and steep descents of the Peak District can be a thrilling challenge, but it’s essential to ensure you’re equipped to handle the demanding conditions and mitigate brake fade. The correct choice of brake system, regular maintenance of your brake pads and rotors, efficient braking technique, the right brake fluid, and a keen understanding of mechanical advantage will all contribute to reducing brake fade.
Remember, the goal is not only to enjoy the ride but also to ensure safety at all times. So, take the time to understand your braking system better, make any necessary upgrades, and hone your technique to maximize your braking power and keep brake fade at bay. Happy and safe riding!
