Which brake systems does Cortina offer for your bicycle or e-bike?
Advice
The brake system of a Cortina bike depends on the bike model. Bicycles can have roller brakes, hydraulic rim or disc brakes, or a coaster brake. Here, we explain what each system involves, so you know what to expect and can make a better choice regarding which bike suits you best.
Different Types of Brakes
On our Cortina bicycles, you’ll find various types of brakes. We always carefully consider the type of bike and which brake system is best suited for it. For example, e-bikes require different brakes than fast e-bikes, because you ride faster on an e-bike. Additionally, the weight of an e-bike is higher, making excellent brakes even more important. Below, we explain the differences between the types of brakes.
Coaster Brake
The coaster brake is found on our basic bike models. This type of brake is very simple and requires little maintenance. This braking system is available on a few Cortina city bikes. You only brake on the rear wheel, so other brake types are more suitable for e-bikes.
Advantages:
- Relatively inexpensive
- Simple system
- Low maintenance and durable
Disadvantages:
Only brakes on the rear wheel, so there’s a higher chance of slipping
Roller Brakes
Many of Cortina's city bikes and e-bikes come with roller brakes. This is a simple, maintenance-free braking system, perfect for city use. The brakes are located in the center of the wheels, and when you pull the brake levers, rollers are pressed against the so-called brake shoe. This is where the name ‘roller brakes’ comes from. This brake type generates some friction, which makes it less suitable for descents, as the brake may overheat. Good to know: this system also works well in wet weather.
Advantages:
- Maintenance-free
- Works well in wet conditions
Disadvantages:
- Less powerful than, for example, rim brakes or disc brakes
- Not suitable for descents or hilly terrain
Rim Brakes (Hydraulic)
On a bike with rim brakes, two plastic pads are positioned next to the rim, and during braking, they press against the rim. These pads are found on both the front and rear wheels, providing powerful braking, allowing you to come to a stop quickly. Rim brakes are reliable and powerful.
What’s the difference between ‘regular’ rim brakes and hydraulic rim brakes? Hydraulic rim brakes use oil pressure, so you don’t need to use as much force to pull the brake levers. Hydraulic rim brakes are more expensive, but they are much more efficient.
Advantages:
- Powerful braking: you stop quickly
- Low maintenance costs
- Brake pads are easy to replace
Disadvantages:
- In wet weather, more debris accumulates, so it’s not the cleanest system
- Brake pads wear out and will need to be replaced periodically
Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Like hydraulic rim brakes, hydraulic disc brakes work with oil pressure, providing a powerful and efficient braking system, requiring minimal force to brake. You’ll most commonly encounter this braking system on e-bikes and sporty city bikes. These brakes also perform well in wet conditions. However, it’s important to handle these brakes properly, or you might experience brake squeal.
Advantages:
- Very powerful braking
- Performs well in wet weather
- Suitable for hilly terrain
Disadvantages:
- Higher maintenance costs
- It’s harder to replace the brake pads yourself
When you're considering a new e-bike, there are many other factors that influence your decision. Want to know which e-bike is best suited for the rides you want to take? Try our e-bike selection guide and find out which e-bike is right for you.