Disc brakes are an essential component for ensuring safety when mountain biking. It is therefore crucial to make the right choice when it comes to your discs. Here is some information to guide you.

STANDARDS:

- Mounting systems: 6-bolt or Center-lock

- Disc diameter: 140mm | 160mm | 180mm | 200mm | 203mm

- Cooling type: Classic | Floating

TYPES OF BRAKE DISCS:

There are two common methods for attaching a disc to a wheel. The first is the 6-bolt standard, where the disc is attached with six screws. The second is the Center-Lock standard, where the disc is connected to the wheel using a central nut.

Regarding diameter, with the exception of some specific frames that accept a 140 mm disc, you have the choice between a 160 mm, 180 mm, or 200 mm disc by using the appropriate caliper adapter. The smaller the disc, the lighter it is, while a larger disc will offer more powerful and efficient braking.

There are also 183 mm and 203 mm discs, which also require compatible caliper adapters. These sizes were created due to differences between the European and American markets, where the United States uses inches rather than centimeters. Thus, a 200 mm disc converted to inches gives 7.99". Rounding up to 8" gives 203 mm.

Regarding the type of disc, most brands offer classic or floating discs. Floating discs are composed of two parts: a braking track connected to a spider by bushings. This system allows for a spider that is more resistant to deformation and better tolerates the expansion of the track during intense braking.

Although discs may look identical to the eye, their thickness is not standardized and varies from 1.7 to 2 mm depending on the brand. For mounting, it is important to check your hubs, which can be either 6-bolt or Center-Lock type.

TRAIL RIDING
For recreational mountain biking, classic 160 mm discs will provide sufficient braking power.

ALL-MOUNTAIN ENDURO
For All-Mountain or Enduro riding with a full-suspension mountain bike, it is recommended to use 180 mm discs for good braking power.

CROSS-COUNTRY
For Cross-Country hardtail mountain bike rides, classic 160 mm discs may be appropriate to minimize weight. However, if you are riding a 29-inch mountain bike or if you enjoy technical descents, it may be necessary to mount a 180 mm disc on the front.

DH | FREERIDE
For DH (Downhill) and Freeride mountain biking, it is recommended to opt for discs with a diameter of 200 mm (or 203 mm). These discs are designed to withstand the most powerful and aggressive braking.