# Do Any Pro cyclists still use rim brakes?
## Do Any Pro cyclists still use rim brakes?
In an era dominated by technological advancements in cycling, including innovations in aerodynamics, weight reduction, and braking systems, the debate surrounding rim brakes versus disc brakes has intensified. As professional cycling has evolved, the trend has shifted predominantly toward disc brakes due to their numerous advantages in performance and functionality. However, a lingering question remains: do any pro cyclists still use rim brakes? This article not only explores the current landscape of brake systems in professional cycling but also delves into the reasons some cyclists might choose to stick with rim brakes and the implications of this choice.
### The Shift Toward Disc Brakes
Over the past decade, disc brakes have gradually established themselves as the standard for high-performance road bikes. Their rise has been driven by several factors:
1. **Superior Stopping Power**: Disc brakes provide significantly better stopping power in various weather conditions. Rain, mud, or dirt can diminish the effectiveness of rim brakes, whereas disc brakes maintain consistent performance.
2. **Better Heat Dissipation**: Disc brakes are less prone to overheating, especially during prolonged descents. This is critical in professional racing, where control and safety can be put to the test.
3. **Consistent Performance**: In wet or muddy conditions, rim brakes can suffer from reduced effectiveness due to the impact of water and debris. Disc brakes, being located at the wheel hub and unaffected by tire debris, provide consistent braking performance.
4. **Weight Distribution and Aerodynamics**: Advances in brake technology have allowed manufacturers to create lightweight disc brake systems that do not significantly impact bike weight. In contrast, traditional rim brakes can alter a bike’s aerodynamic profile, impacting performance.
Despite these advantages, a number of professional cyclists still opt for rim brakes due to personal preference, specific racing conditions, or the constraints of particular events.
### Why Some cyclists still use rim brakes
1. **Weight Considerations**: Rim brake setups tend to weigh less than their disc counterparts. For climbers and those who prioritize weight savings, this can be a significant motivator. Professional cyclists in stage races or mountainous events where weight is pivotal might lean toward rim brakes to save those crucial grams.
2. **Historical Preference and Feel**: Many seasoned cyclists have developed a feel and rhythm with rim brakes. The modulation of rim brakes can offer a more tactile experience for some riders, allowing them to fine-tune their braking in a way that feels more intuitive than disc brakes.
3. **Bike Compatibility and Regulations**: Some teams, especially those competing in certain UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) events, may have equipment restrictions that necessitate rim brakes. Although a shrinking category, there are still races that require or allow rim brakes, and some teams maintain them in their setups.
4. **Increased Modularity**: Rim brakes allow quick tire changes, which could be crucial in race settings where mechanical issues can arise. With garment and tire technology evolving, the ability to change a tire rapidly can be a game-changer in certain race scenarios.
### Current Landscape of Rim Brakes in Professional Cycling
While the prevalence of rim brakes in professional cycling has sharply decreased, they have not vanished entirely. Some pro teams and cyclists still use them, though often for specific purposes or conditions. Depending on the season, circumstances, and personal comfort levels, the following are examples of how rim brakes make their appearance in the pro cycling world:
1. **Classic Races**: Iconic races like Paris-Roubaix or the Tour of Flanders, which feature cobbled sections and unpredictable weather, see some cyclists relying on the tried-and-true reliability of rim brakes. This choice can signify a return to the roots of cycling, where mechanics and rider skill play a significant role in a bicycle’s performance.
2. **Time Trials**: In high-stakes time trial events, where aerodynamics is paramount, some riders still opt for high-end rim brake setups. The advantages of a lightweight and aerodynamic bike combined with powerful tubular tires make this choice appealing for individual tests against the clock.
3. **Limited Events**: Certain smaller events or grassroots races might still see cycling professionals using rim brakes, either due to sponsors or personal preferences. These environments allow riders to take comfort in their setups without being heavily scrutinized regarding technology.
### Advantages of Continuing the Use of Rim Brakes
Rim brakes, especially in the hands of experienced cyclists, do hold several advantages that can be hard to dismiss:
1. **Simplicity**: Rim brakes are mechanically simpler and easier to maintain. For roadside repairs, such as a quick cable adjustment or wheel change, rim brakes might be easier for riders to manage.
2. **Cost**: Generally, rim brakes are less expensive than disc brake systems. While professional cyclists often have access to sponsor-supported equipment, the economics of cycling mean that even the best riders