Pros and cons of hydraulic brakes

[GirishH]

Like some of you know, I’m bikepacking on my fatbike. I’m a bit of a chicken on downhills, but this bike came with mechanical disc brakes, and they’ve been great so far.

Right now, I’m in Nepal chasing mountains. I can’t stand the plains—too hot and muggy, even for me (an Indian!).

Anyway, a friend who rides a Giant Talon suggested I switch to hydraulic brakes for better control on steep descents and rough trails. So I’m curious—what’s been your experience?

Before this bike, I’d only ever used rim brakes, so mechanical discs were already a big upgrade and a learning curve for me. I’m not very mechanically inclined, but I can check brake wear, replace pads, and tighten things when needed. This is after some damaging learnings..

   

How easy or difficult is it to maintain, bleed, or vent hydraulic brakes on your own? How challenging is the switch from mechanical to hydraulic from a bike mechanic’s perspective?

I’ll be visiting a few bike shops here in Kathmandu today or tomorrow, but I’d love to hear your thoughts too.

On some trails, I know I’ll wipe out—sometimes even braking hard won’t fully stop the bike from rolling!

---

Another complication: my handlebar is always loaded, and I already know that my mechanical disc brake and gear-shifting cables are bent because of this. How would this affect or damage a hydraulic brake line or oil system?

   

(07-14-2025, 09:53 PM)GirishH Wrote:  Like some of you know, I’m bikepacking on my fatbike. I’m a bit of a chicken on downhills, but this bike came with mechanical disc brakes, and they’ve been great so far.

Right now, I’m in Nepal chasing mountains. I can’t stand the plains—too hot and muggy, even for me (an Indian!).

Anyway, a friend who rides a Giant Talon suggested I switch to hydraulic brakes for better control on steep descents and rough trails. So I’m curious—what’s been your experience?

Before this bike, I’d only ever used rim brakes, so mechanical discs were already a big upgrade and a learning curve for me. I’m not very mechanically inclined, but I can check brake wear, replace pads, and tighten things when needed. This is after some damaging learnings..



How easy or difficult is it to maintain, bleed, or vent hydraulic brakes on your own? How challenging is the switch from mechanical to hydraulic from a bike mechanic’s perspective?

I’ll be visiting a few bike shops here in Kathmandu today or tomorrow, but I’d love to hear your thoughts too.

On some trails, I know I’ll wipe out—sometimes even braking hard won’t fully stop the bike from rolling!

[Flowrider]

I like how easy the discs are to carry on long trips like yours and how easy they are to replace and fit.

[meamoantonio]

Hydraulic works really well especially for what you do, the additional maintenance thing with bleeding isn't actually too much of a problem, you only do it once a year more or less and it should be fine, this is a very minor inconvenience for the confidence it gives you on the descents, you'd be surprised how much faster you'll be going on downhills especially if you know you can stop consistently which the hydraulic system would really enable you to do. Happy shopping my friend!

[GirishH]

@meamoantonio and @Flowrider, thanks for sharing your thoughts.

Yesterday, I visited a Giant bike shop in Kathmandu and spoke with the mechanic. He said I can upgrade to hydraulic brakes for under $50! While I was mulling it over, I met some downhill enthusiasts one who even runs package rides in the Mustang valley. They said I’m better off sticking with mechanical disc brakes because they’re easier to repair. They folks ride Scotts bikes..:-(

Then I met another Nepali who has walked the length of Nepal three times! He said he’s seen cyclists doing the Annapurna Circuit on old-school rim brakes.

So, I’m getting feedback from every angle.

For now, I’ll ride to Mustang valley with Thorong La pass (5400 meters) being the highest point and decide when I am back in Kathmandu in a month or so.

My main concern is that even if my brakes work absolutely smooth, if the trail is gravelly or sandy, I can still skid or spill—especially with MisterGordo so loaded. Sometimes I worry he’ll flip over me on steep descents. So I’m always cautious about sudden stops or picking up too much speed.

Many a times I go with the "roll" because I know gravity, terrain, MisterGordo’s weight, and my own fear are all ganging up on me!..

The fastest I let myself go is 50 kph, and that’s only on flat stretches where I can see far ahead. On downhills, I stay very slow..

Again, I’ll pedal (mull) more over this and decide soon...:-)

(07-16-2025, 12:00 PM)meamoantonio Wrote:  Hydraulic works really well especially for what you do, the additional maintenance thing with bleeding isn't actually too much of a problem, you only do it once a year more or less and it should be fine, this is a very minor inconvenience for the confidence it gives you on the descents, you'd be surprised how much faster you'll be going on downhills especially if you know you can stop consistently which the hydraulic system would really enable you to do. Happy shopping my friend!

[Flowrider]

As always safety first...and I guess you don't always have phone reception if something does go wrong.

[GirishH]

Yes, safety comes first, and phone reception is always a concern.

I did a long ride this weekend around the mountains of Kathmandu. Most people I spoke to and rode with had hydraulic brakes. Many of them were younger and knew how to handle their bikes and curves gracefully. They loved steep downhills and would fly down slopes, whether paved or completely off-road.

I sometimes had to walk my bike downhill because the stretch felt too uncomfortable for me, especially after I took a tumble earlier that morning. Thankfully, I got up without any injury, but that was just in the first few miles of what was supposed to be a 100-miler.

I’ve realized I still haven’t learned how to brake smoothly — I always brake hard. So I worry that hydraulics might just send me over the bars every time I hit the brakes. While watching some YouTube videos (GCN, Bikepacking.com), I learnt that mechanical disc brakes are the optimal choice for bikepacking. If anything, I’ll look into switching to a larger "front" disc, if my bike can accommodate one.

(07-17-2025, 09:01 PM)Flowrider Wrote:  As always safety first...and I guess you don't always have phone reception if something does go wrong.

[Flowrider]

From what I've read from you and the incredible experiences you've undertaken, my intuition says that when your confidence matches your skill level, you'll get more out of your ride.

That's enjoyment, taking on downhills with a smile, covering more daily distance, and feeling content, as the mental stress of potential crashes is subdued and reframed into confidence.

A suggestion. When you're riding. That's about to ride, on a ride or post ride, mentally go through what you'd tell a beginner rider. That way, you'll discover just how much skill you actually do have and subconsciously take it into your daily rides, including the downhill tracks.

Keep it up and post daily. Fantastic to read

[ReapThaWhirlwind]

180mm + 4 Piston should have enough power to stop you on a dime going down the side of a mountain.

That's what I would recommend based on your input.

I personally feel like it's a bit of a give and take. They are more work in some ways, and they are less work in others. Overall, I would say that mechanical brakes are truly simpler. Hydraulic brakes are a luxury item. The added work you get should be expected.

[GirishH]

Haha, I participated in an across-Nepal cycling ride, the Kora Challenge, this past weekend. Along with two Nepali riders, I rode 150 km on paved roads, unpaved stretches, and full trails. One had a Specialized bike while the other younger rider, had a cheaper bike. But my Nepali friends love the downhills and would go flying — granted, one of them is only 23 and claimed he hit top speeds of 100 km/h on his MTB. He loved those descents. So during that 150 km ride, I kept talking to them about their hydraulic brakes.

At least a couple of times, I got off my bike and walked it down. This is after I had taken a bad spill early in the morning off of a rough, stony, rocky route. I just have to trust my intuition and slowly build my confidence.

Interestingly, my brakes weren’t working well, no matter how much I adjusted them. Only the front brakes kept working while the rear brakes did not.

Anyway, after the ride, I was cleaning my bike and discovered why my brakes hadn’t been working — the brake pads didn’t even last 1,000 miles. Then again, there were plenty of tough climbs and descents over those 1,000 miles.

(07-21-2025, 05:18 AM)Flowrider Wrote:  From what I've read from you and the incredible experiences you've undertaken, my intuition says that when your confidence matches your skill level, you'll get more out of your ride.

That's enjoyment, taking on downhills with a smile, covering more daily distance, and feeling content, as the mental stress of potential crashes is subdued and reframed into confidence.

A suggestion. When you're riding. That's about to ride, on a ride or post ride, mentally go through what you'd tell a beginner rider. That way, you'll discover just how much skill you actually do have and subconsciously take it into your daily rides, including the downhill tracks.

Keep it up and post daily. Fantastic to read

[GirishH]

@ReapThaWhirlwind, Thanks for that input.

I went to another bike shop recommended by my weekend 150 KM riding buddy. The mechanic there turned out to be an MTB champion who has represented Nepal 7–10 times. He’s such a bad salesman — when I asked about handlebar grips, he showed me one for $4 and another for $22, then said, ‘Just get the $4 one, that’s what we use.’

Anyway, I spoke to him about my cycling dreams in Nepal, and he said to stick with mechanical disc brakes. I’d read about using a larger front disc, and he agreed it could help. My bike can only take a 180 mm rotor with an adapter. When I asked about a 180 mm rear rotor, he said it wasn’t necessary, and the same for a 200 mm front — ‘Just go with 180 mm,’ he said. Not much of a salesman, but a great mechanic!

So that’s how my switch to hydraulics got resolved.

This champion rider, Raj Kumar also organizes free trail rides on weekends, so I’ve postponed my plans and decided to stay in Kathmandu a few more days.
   

(07-22-2025, 11:12 PM)ReapThaWhirlwind Wrote:  180mm + 4 Piston should have enough power to stop you on a dime going down the side of a mountain.

That's what I would recommend based on your input.

I personally feel like it's a bit of a give and take. They are more work in some ways, and they are less work in others. Overall, I would say that mechanical brakes are truly simpler. Hydraulic brakes are a luxury item. The added work you get should be expected.

[Flowrider]

Your exploits need to get out there and inspire even more. Have you tried Facebook, Twitter (X doesn't work for me ), Instagram, etc

Think it'll be great for people to see what is achievable

[Flowrider]

Hi @GirishH . Just curious. There is a writer on Medium.com with the name Girish. Would that be you by chance?

[rydabent]

The huge point remains, if you snag a hydraulic line out in the middle of no where, you are out of that brake on one end of your bike. Snag a bike cable, and a simple re-adjust can be done in the field.

[GirishH]

   
Frankly, I'm not the first one doing this, @Flowrider.. There are so many who’ve done things like this before.

One well-known name here is Corry Wallace—an Australian-Colombian, or so I was told by the locals on my first day in Nepal. Turns out he's actually Canadian! I finally got to see his bike, a Kona, which he had gifted to the brother of MTB-champion/mechanic, Raj Kumar.
   

(Un)fortunately —the Girish on Medium isn’t me. For now, I just keep a blog on CycleBlaze and occasionally post on Instagram ( MisterGordo_)—usually when GooglePhoto warns me I’m low on storage

I really hope more people step out of their comfort zones and explore what the world and mountains have to offer—especially now that we have so many things making it easier. Bikes and gear are so much lighter, flying is easier, and remote work is more feasible than ever..:-)

(07-24-2025, 08:41 PM)Flowrider Wrote:  Your exploits need to get out there and inspire even more. Have you tried Facebook, Twitter (X doesn't work for me ), Instagram, etc

Think it'll be great for people to see what is achievable

[GirishH]

   

Currently, I am on my way to Annapurna Area. I am closely following Cory's route.. even-though I came across this post just today while my route was recommended by the local riders including the champion mechanic, Raj Kumar.

http://corywallace.com/2024/05/gravel-biking-the-annapurna-circuit/

Yesterday I managed to ride/push only 32kms but that involved some 4000 feet elevation gain. And, it took the entire day (9am through 6pm). Lots of rests, dealing the heat of the plains, rains in the hills, landslide zones and complete off-road "road"..

[enkei]

Off the top of my head, the drawbacks of hydraulic brakes:

1. Not as easy to maintain or repair as mechanical, especially if routed internally, double especially if routed through the headset.
2. Generally more expensive.
3. Don't play so well with folding frames and/or shipping/transport.

The benefits:

1. MUCH less hand strain, which can get very tiring/painful when repeatedly having to slow a heavy rig on steep descents.
2. Much better feedback/modulation than mechanical brakes. This can improve confidence when braking.
3. No need for regular adjustment of the pistons to maintain responsive braking.
4. Self-centering pistons optimize braking response and pad wear.

However, as many have pointed out, mechanical brakes are often the superior choice for bikepacking, especially longer distances far from built-up areas, as servicing and repairs are super-easy and practical. There are no hydraulic lines that can be damaged, and no need to pack a bleed kit (even though these can be impressively small and light).

You might consider hybrid mechanical-hydraulic calipers from JuinTech, Tektro, or TRP. For best results, use compressionless cable housings.

[GirishH]

Thanks, @enkei, for your detailed insights. After some back-and-forth, and brainstorming, I decided to stick with my trusted mechanical disc brakes—though I did upgrade to a larger front rotor (180mm from 160mm).

I do love how hydraulic brakes are gentler on fingers—mine tend to go numb with overuse. But I also use that as an excuse to stop and "smell the roses."

Below are the latest victims of my brake overuse—both front and back. I don't think they lasted even 1,000 km. I didn’t track the mileage last time, but I’ll be keeping a close eye on it from now on.
   

(07-31-2025, 07:43 AM)enkei Wrote:  Off the top of my head, the drawbacks of hydraulic brakes:

1. Not as easy to maintain or repair as mechanical, especially if routed internally, double especially if routed through the headset.
2. Generally more expensive.
3. Don't play so well with folding frames and/or shipping/transport.

The benefits:

1. MUCH less hand strain, which can get very tiring/painful when repeatedly having to slow a heavy rig on steep descents.
2. Much better feedback/modulation than mechanical brakes. This can improve confidence when braking.
3. No need for regular adjustment of the pistons to maintain responsive braking.
4. Self-centering pistons optimize braking response and pad wear.

However, as many have pointed out, mechanical brakes are often the superior choice for bikepacking, especially longer distances far from built-up areas, as servicing and repairs are super-easy and practical. There are no hydraulic lines that can be damaged, and no need to pack a bleed kit (even though these can be impressively small and light).

You might consider hybrid mechanical-hydraulic calipers from JuinTech, Tektro, or TRP. For best results, use compressionless cable housings.

[Flowrider]

@GirishH that's fantastic persistence, perseverance and dedication!

What is reception like?

And do you let anyone know what your plans are for the day and that you'll contact them at the end of the day?

[GirishH]

Thanks, @Flowrider . The truth is, I get lazy after a few days in one place or tired often. I work well under pressure or when I have invested $$ into a race or such. For example, I registered for an ultra in October. So, I keep pushing every day..:-)

Riding solo has its perks, but also many reasons to take a break and stay behind: learn a new language, understand the culture, and why so many Nepalis migrate to places like India, Australia, Japan, and beyond.

Right now, I’m in a tiny hamlet of about 40 homes—if you can call them that. After the 2016 earthquake, many left. Those who remain live in half-stone, half-corrugated sheet structures.

There’s no running water, even though there’s a natural spring in the village. Everyone drinks, bathes, and washes from it—usually making sure they’re downstream from the source. Today, I brought out MisterGordo's front wheel to the same spring to check for a leak.

Two evenings ago, I pedaled into this hamlet around 6:30 p.m., desperately looking for a place to spend the night. I’d just passed a stunning viewpoint—looked straight out of Iceland. I was too afraid to pitch my tent there as it's the middle of monsoon, lots of landalides and heavy downpours.

A boy running a tiny shack of a restaurant pointed me to an elderly man, who led me to a shack with a room that had three beds. I said, “This will do.” Later, the landlady came, cooked dinner, and we all ate together. The rent? 100 Nepali rupees for the room.

Many here have spent time working in India and picked up some Hindi—often Indians mistreat/ridicule Nepalis because of their language, how obidient they are.

But, Nepalis treat guests like gods. Now, they have an India, an Australia, a Japa or an Europe connection. So, I have never felt out of place.

Honestly, I could stay here forever. This morning, I woke up late—the room is like a den, no light. Around 9 a.m., I heard digging. Outside, 6–8 villagers were working in my host family’s field. The men dug up old corn stalks while the women planted millet. No money changed hands—it’s just how the community works. Tomorrow, it’ll be someone else’s field, and my hosts will help them.
   
I helped a bit, laughed with them, shared a meal. It’s humbling—especially for someone who has lived in materialistic parts of India and the U.S.
In this picture, some of the ladies were dancing as they planted the millet..:-)
   

My dad and Nepali friend (who brought my Garmin Instinct from the U.S.) track me via GoogleMap location. My dad’s 82 and overprotective, so I try to call and update him when I can...:-)

(07-31-2025, 09:03 PM)Flowrider Wrote:  @GirishH that's fantastic persistence, perseverance and dedication!

What is reception like?

And do you let anyone know what your plans are for the day and that you'll contact them at the end of the day?

---

Thanks, @Flowrider . The truth is, I get lazy after a few days in one place or tired often. I work well under pressure or when I have invested $$ into a race or such. For example, I registered for an ultra in October. So, I keep pushing every day..:-)

Riding solo has its perks, but also many reasons to take a break and stay behind: learn a new language, understand the culture, and why so many Nepalis migrate to places like India, Australia, Japan, and beyond.

Right now, I’m in a tiny hamlet of about 40 homes—if you can call them that. After the 2016 earthquake, many left. Those who remain live in half-stone, half-corrugated sheet structures.

There’s no running water, even though there’s a natural spring in the village. Everyone drinks, bathes, and washes from it—usually making sure they’re downstream from the source. Today, I brought out MisterGordo's front wheel to the same spring to check for a leak.

Two evenings ago, I pedaled into this hamlet around 6:30 p.m., desperately looking for a place to spend the night. I’d just passed a stunning viewpoint—looked straight out of Iceland. I was too afraid to pitch my tent there as it's the middle of monsoon, lots of landalides and heavy downpours.

A boy running a tiny shack of a restaurant pointed me to an elderly man, who led me to a shack with a room that had three beds. I said, “This will do.” Later, the landlady came, cooked dinner, and we all ate together. The rent? 100 Nepali rupees for the room.

Many here have spent time working in India and picked up some Hindi—often Indians mistreat/ridicule Nepalis because of their language, how obidient they are.

But, Nepalis treat guests like gods. Now, they have an India, an Australia, a Japa or an Europe connection. So, I have never felt out of place.

Honestly, I could stay here forever. This morning, I woke up late—the room is like a den, no light. Around 9 a.m., I heard digging. Outside, 6–8 villagers were working in my host family’s field. The men dug up old corn stalks while the women planted millet. No money changed hands—it’s just how the community works. Tomorrow, it’ll be someone else’s field, and my hosts will help them.
   
I helped a bit, laughed with them, shared a meal. It’s humbling—especially for someone who has lived in materialistic parts of India and the U.S.
In this picture, some of the ladies were dancing as they planted the millet..:-)
   

My dad and Nepali friend (who brought my Garmin Instinct from the U.S.) track me via GoogleMap location. My dad’s 82 and overprotective, so I try to call and update him when I can...:-)

(07-31-2025, 09:03 PM)Flowrider Wrote:  @GirishH that's fantastic persistence, perseverance and dedication!

What is reception like?

And do you let anyone know what your plans are for the day and that you'll contact them at the end of the day?

[Flowrider]

Another world...in many ways, they are 'lucky' enough not to know what drama there is going on in the world and truly live in the moment daily.

Their outlook on life would be incredible to hear.

Keep posting!

Look forward to reading what's going on in a land we don't hear enough of.