Electric bike disc brake

         Mechanical vs. Hydraulic Disc Brakes: Which Are Better?

There are two types of disc brakes: mechanical and hydraulic, the main difference being how they engage the calipers. Although both disc styles are excellent, hydraulic bike brakes are considered the better of the two.  

Mechanical Disc Brake:

Hydraulic Disc Brake:

Comparing mechanical vs. hydraulic disc brakes is a little more complex than comparing rim vs. disc brakes. Both have pros and cons, but hydraulic outperform mechanical in the most critical areas, including stopping power, reliability, and aerodynamics. 

• Stopping power – Hydraulic fluid is more efficient than cable-actuated mechanical discs. Mechanical discs inherently have friction in the system, which increases with wear.
• Reliability – Mechanical brakes are less reliable as they are more susceptible to cable wear and contamination than the sealed hydraulic fluid container. 
• Maintenance – Mechanical discs are less complex and easier to repair . However, mechanical discs require more care to preserve optimal function.
• Price – Hydraulic disc brakes are more expensive as they require specialized components; mechanical discs work off standard brake levers and cables. Additionally, most riders need a bike mechanic to perform maintenance.
• Aerodynamics – Hydraulic systems allow compact integrated headsets as delicate cable routing isn’t necessary; braking efficiency is maintained even if there are twists in the brake hose. 
• Since their popularization in mountain biking, disc brakes have slowly edged into the other disciplines. Mechanical and hydraulic disc brakes are becoming the universal choice for bicycle manufacturers thanks to their unbeatable performance. 
• Mostly when top speed is faster than 35km/h the hydraulic disc brakes will be more safty.