To check whether your bike brakes are post mount or flat mount, look at the location of the mounting bolts on the frame and the caliper. Post mount brakes have bolts that go through the frame and caliper, while flat mount brakes have bolts that thread into the frame and caliper.
Bike brakes are essential parts that ensure rider safety and can affect the bike’s overall performance. Therefore, riders must know how to determine what type of brakes their bike has to make any upgrades or replacements more manageable. The two types of brake mounts are post mount and flat mount, and it is vital to know the difference between them.
In this article, we will discuss how to identify if your bike has post mount or flat mount brakes and why it is crucial.
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Understanding Post Mount Brake System
Definition And Structure Of Post Mount Brake System
Post mount brake system is a popular type of brake system used in modern bikes. It is a hydraulic brake system that is directly mounted to the bike frame using bolts. Unlike the flat mount brake system, post mount brake system has two mounting points that directly mount the caliper to the frame.
The system consists of the following components:
- Caliper – the mechanism that holds the brake pads and clamps the brake rotor.
- Rotor – a metal disc that rotates with the wheel and is used by the brake pads to slow the bike down.
- Brake pads – rubber-like materials designed to touch the rotor and create friction to slow the bike down.
- Brake lever – the mechanism used to apply pressure on the brake system.
Pros And Cons Of Post Mount Brake System
Like every other brake system, post mount brake system has pros and cons. Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of the post mount brake system:
Pros:
- More powerful braking: Post mount brake systems are known for their power and efficiency, providing a stronger and more reliable braking system.
- Better heat dissipation: As the caliper is mounted away from the fork, post mount brake systems allow better heat dissipation, reducing the chances of brake fade.
- Easier to install: With only two bolts required to install the caliper, post mount brake systems are relatively easy to install compared to other systems.
Cons:
- Less aerodynamic: Due to the position of the caliper, post mount brake systems can be less aerodynamic, causing drag and slower speeds.
- Reduced brake modulation: Post mount brake systems can be somewhat grabby, not providing the smooth and precise feel of other systems.
- Limited fork/frame compatibility: Some fork and frame materials may not be compatible with post mount brake systems, requiring adaptors or different types of brake systems.
Compatibility With Different Fork/Frameset Materials
Post mount brake systems are compatible with most modern bikes. However, there are specific fork and frameset materials that may not be compatible with post mount brake systems. These include:
- Carbon fiber forks: Carbon has a low thermal conductivity that makes heat dissipation a challenge, resulting in potential problems with brake fade.
- Vintage framesets: Older frames may not have the necessary mounting points required for post mount brake systems, requiring adaptors or a different type of brake system.
Before purchasing a post mount brake system, it is essential to check the frame compatibility and consult a professional mechanic for advice.
Maintenance And Adjustment Tips For Post Mount Brakes
Maintaining and adjusting post mount brake systems requires careful attention, ensuring a safe and reliable braking system. Here are some maintenance and adjustment tips:
- Regularly check the brake pads for wear and replace them when necessary.
- Keep the rotor clean and free of debris to maintain optimal braking performance.
- Use manufacturer-approved brake fluid and replace it as recommended.
- Use a torque wrench to tighten bolts to the correct torque specifications.
- Check for any irregularities, such as noise or shuddering while braking, and have them inspected by a professional.
- Use a bleed kit to remove any air bubbles from the brake system, improving brake performance.
By following these maintenance and adjustment tips, post mount brake systems can provide reliable and efficient braking performance for years to come.
Understanding Flat Mount Brake System
Flat mount brakes are the newer type of brake system used by most road bike manufacturers. Unlike post mount brakes, flat mount brakes connect directly to the frame or fork without the need for an adaptor. If you’re unsure of what type of brake system you have on your bike, understanding some key features and maintenance tips of the flat mount brake system can help you identify if it is what you have.
Definition And Structure Of Flat Mount Brake System
Flat mount brakes provide a more streamlined look, making them the perfect choice for road bikes with sleek designs. They use a flat mount interface which is essentially a newer standard for disc brake mounting. Compared to post mount brakes, flat mount brakes have a lower profile design and are more aerodynamic.
The flat mount brake system has the following basic components:
- Brake caliper
- Brake rotor
- Brake pads
- Brake levers
Pros And Cons Of Flat Mount Brake System
Like any bike component, flat mount brakes come with their advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the pros and cons of flat mount brake system:
Pros
- Easy to install and remove the brake calipers because they do not require extra adapters.
- The shortened mounting distance between the brake and the frame offers a more stable brake during hard braking.
- Their smaller size makes them more lightweight and aerodynamic
- They are best suited for use on road bikes due to their streamlined look and enhanced performance.
Cons
- Limited compatibility with bike frames designed for post mount brakes.
- They need special tools for adjustment and installation and may not be as easy to adjust as post mount brakes.
- They may be more expensive than post mount brakes.
Compatibility With Different Fork/Frameset Materials
Since the flat mount brake system is a relatively new type of brake system, it may have limited compatibility with some older bike frames. The flat mount brake system is best suited for road bikes due to their streamlined look.
When choosing a fork/frame, you need to make sure they are compatible. Some materials that work well with flat mount brakes include carbon fiber frames, aluminum frames, and titanium frames.
Maintenance And Adjustment Tips For Flat Mount Brakes
Maintaining and adjusting your flat mount brake system is essential for keeping your brake system functioning correctly. Here are some tips for maintaining and adjusting your flat mount brakes:
- Always keep your brake calipers clean and free of dust, dirt, or mud.
- Lubricate the brake calipers and the pivot bolts regularly to keep them moving smoothly and prevent corrosion.
- Check for worn brake pads and replace them promptly.
- Adjust the brake caliper position when necessary to ensure it remains centered over the rotor.
- Check for brake rotor wear and replace when necessary.
Understanding the flat mount brake system and its components can help you identify if it is the type of brake system on your bike. Knowing the equipment’s pros and cons, as well as compatibility with different fork and frameset materials, and maintenance and adjustment tips, can give you a better understanding of what your bike needs to perform at its best.
Choosing The Right Brake Mount System For Your Bike
Factors To Consider When Choosing Between Post And Flat Mount Brake Systems
Choosing the right brake mount system for your bike is crucial in ensuring your safety while riding. There are several factors that you need to consider before making your decision, including:
- Type of frame: Your bike’s frame will determine which brake mount system you can use, as not all frames are suitable for both post and flat mount systems. Ensure that you can use your preferred system with your specific frame.
- Brake compatibility: Not all brake systems are compatible with both post and flat mounts, so ensure that the brakes you plan to use are compatible with your chosen mount system.
- Weight and stiffness: Post mount systems are often more substantial and require extra components, while flat mount systems usually result in a more streamlined and lightweight design. Choose the system that best suits your bike’s weight and structural requirements.
Key Differences Between Post And Flat Mount Brake Systems
The primary difference between post and flat mount brake systems is their mounting location on the bike’s frame. Post mount systems attach to the frame using bolts that thread through the mounts on either side of the brake caliper. The caliper then clasps onto the rotor to stop the wheel.
In contrast, flat mount systems bolt directly onto the frame in a horizontal or vertical orientation, creating a more direct connection between frame and brake. Because of the direct connection, flat-mount systems often provide more precise braking control.
Real-World Examples And Comparisons Of Post And Flat Mount Brake Systems
Here are some examples of bikes and brands that use post and flat mount systems:
Post Mount Systems
- Santa cruz – santa cruz mountain bikes typically use post mount systems for their bikes, including the aluminum chameleon and santa cruz 5010.
- Pivot cycles – pivot’s mach 5.5 uses a post mount system with shimano xt brakes.
- Yeti cycles – yeti’s sb 130 and sb 150 models utilize post mount systems with sram guide rsc brakes.
Flat Mount Systems
- Trek – trek bikes often feature flat-mount systems, such as the trek emonda sl 5 and madone slr 7.
- Specialized – the specialized venge pro and allez sprint comp disc use flat mount systems with hydraulic disc brakes.
- Giant – giant’s defy advanced pro 0 and tcr advanced pro disc both use flat mount systems with shimano dura-ace hydraulic road disc brakes.
Tips For Ensuring Smooth And Safe Rides With Your Chosen Brake Mount System
Whichever brake mount system you choose, there are some essential tips to maximize your riding safety:
- Regular maintenance: Ensure that you regularly clean, check, and maintain your brake system to prevent any issues and ensure maximum performance.
- Proper installation: Ensure that your chosen brake mount system is correctly installed on your bike by a trained professional or experienced mechanic.
- Proper braking technique: Using the correct braking technique, especially on mountain bikes, can help your brake system last longer and ensure your safety while riding.
Choosing the right brake mount system for your bike can significantly impact your riding safety and performance. Consider the factors above, understand the differences between post and flat mount systems, and maintain your brake system to ensure a smooth and safe ride.
Frequently Asked Questions Of How Do I Know If My Brakes Are Post Mount Or Flat Mount?
What Are Post Mount Brakes?
Post mount brakes are a type of brake caliper mounting system where the caliper is bolted directly to the bike frame.
What Are Flat Mount Brakes?
Flat mount brakes are a type of brake caliper mounting system where the caliper is bolted directly to the bike frame and sits flush against the frame.
How Do I Know If My Brakes Are Post Mount Or Flat Mount?
To determine if you have post mount or flat mount brakes, look at the position of the brake caliper mounting bolts in relation to the frame.
Can I Use Post Mount Brake Calipers On A Flat Mount Bike Frame?
Post mount brake calipers should not be used on a flat mount bike frame as the caliper will not sit flush against the frame and could cause issues with braking performance.
Conclusion
As a cyclist, it’s critical to know the style of brakes on your bike so that you can maintain and upgrade them with ease. Identifying the type of brake mount is crucial for accurate replacement and maintenance, whether it’s post-mount or flat-mount.
In case you aren’t sure of your brake style, inspecting your brake calipers is the right way to go. You can also check on the manufacturer’s website or refer to a manual if you have one. Understanding your brake mount type is vital for braking safety and smooth bike performance.
A mountain biker should familiarize themselves with all types of brake systems, including the post-mount and flat-mount systems, to enhance their performance and keep up with routine check-ups. Accurately identifying your brake mount style is just one step towards being a well-informed cyclist.