The Best Bike Brake Rotors of 2021

Best Bike Brake Rotors Buying Guide & Reviews of 2020

Your bike is made of numerous small components, each having a definite function and working together so that you can cruize through the streets, rough terrains, and even during hiking. A bike brake rotor is one such component that arrests the speed and slows down/stops your vehicle. They are a matter of safety, and you can not purchase them based on their fancy designs and tempting marketing materials. Below are the things that you need to be aware of before you embark on your journey to find the ideal bike brake rotor.

Types

Smooth Bike Brake Rotor

These rotors have a plain smooth surface without any holes or drills. They are the cheapest brake rotors and does not create any noise while operating. Ideal for slow riders and low range bikes. They are the lightest bike brake rotors.

Drilled Bike Brake Rotors

When the brake is applied, heat is generated due to friction. If the heat is not released, it will lead to the damage of rotors. To prevent this, these rotors come with holes on their surface to enable heat dissipation. However, the holes reduce the binding force between the pads and the rotor. To put things in a simpler perspective, drilled brake rotors are long-lasting but take more time to slow down your bike.

Slotted Bike Brake Rotors

If you want to take it up a notch, the slotted brake rotors are your best bet. They come with lines or marking to enable quick heat dissipation. Ideal for powerful sports bikes and bikers who love throttling. However, the downside is that they do not last very long and get damaged due to the system’s stress level.

Drilled Slotted Bike Brake Rotors

They bring the best of both worlds together. These rotors come with both markings and holes on their surface. They top the table in all categories. They are very efficient, long-lasting and the most expensive too.

Features

Bike Compatibility

Different bike brake rotors serve different purposes. Depending upon the power, nature of your bike and your driving style, you will have to opt for the right bike brake rotor. For instance, mountain bike brake rotors are great when you drive on hilly areas, and dirt bike brake rotors are great for off-road.

Material

Bike brake rotors are generally made of cast iron, aluminum, and steel. Carbon or ceramic bike brake rotors are also available these days. Cast iron rotors are ideal for high powered bikes but don't last long. Steel rotors are light-weight, have a good heat dissipation effect but are not capable of handling powerful engines.

Durability

In the case of bike brake rotors, durability and performance don't get along well. If the durability is high, the rotor takes more time to slow down your bike. Drilled slotted rotors are the only exception in this case with high performance and durability.

Ease of Installation

Smooth rotors are easier to install to your bike, and you can do it yourself with the help of the user manual. The installation of some rotors requires a professional touch.

Price

Their cost ranges from $10 to $150. Bike brake rotors are concerned with your safety and sparing a few additional bucks for them would be worthwhile.

Conclusion

If you are someone who loves accelerating, then you need to have a top-notch bike brake rotor to ensure that you slow down your bike as and when needed. Whether you want to upgrade your bike brake rotor or want to replace a damaged one, you can get started by going through the best bike brake rotors list mentioned above.