Anyone Else Here Into Rubber?

gordon581

Pedelecer
Sep 8, 2014
32
12
58
Glasgow
Now I've got your attention, brakes I mean.

As a recent Big Bear owner, I've been surprised how ineffective the rear brakes have been. I've travelled a few hundred miles and today I've discovered the v-brakes were almost completely worn. Does anyone know if there is any difference to both the stopping performance and lifespan of different brands? Previously I've used cheap Tesco pads for my non e bike which worked well. This time I bought from Halfords brand name ones at 3 times the price. Hoping they will last longer than the month old ones I've just replaced.

Any advice?
 

Gringo

Esteemed Pedelecer
Jun 18, 2013
1,352
843
Northampton
I'm no expert but I've found that if you have hard pads then the wheel rim will wear instead, you can't have it both ways.
These days I don't have any breaking issues as I only use disc breaks :p
 
  • Like
Reactions: gordon581

gordon581

Pedelecer
Sep 8, 2014
32
12
58
Glasgow
Thats a good point Gringo, I hadnt thought of that. Unfortunately, I don't think there is any way to upgrade the BB to rear discs.
 

jackhandy

Esteemed Pedelecer
May 20, 2012
1,820
323
the Cornish Alps
My GT idrive bouncer has rim brakes, with new Aztek blocks.
They stop the bike as well as the Hope drybolic disks on my Trek _ in the dry: Haven't tried them in proper wet yet, but I'm very impressed by them so far.
I reckon Gringo's on the money & yes, I suspect there's a huge difference between good 'uns & 3-quid-specials.
 
  • Like
Reactions: gordon581