Hydraulic brakes

[davidw]

Flecc
I see that the new Tasman has hydraulic brakes. I didn't know that bicycles could have such things. Can you enlighten me about them, please?
What are their advantages/disadvantages?
David

 

[flecc]

The Magura ones are regarded as the best bike brakes. The benefits are a permanently very smooth action with no friction, the power of hydraulic pressure, and no cable maintenance, oiling etc.

The disadvantages are cost and the need for knowledgable help or new end to end pressure units if damage or trouble does occur, so not quite the same DIY ease as on most bike parts. Normally they are exceptionally reliable though, so that's a very minor consideration.

I'd be happy to have them on any bike, but the difference when new on the Agattu will be small since the standard brakes are so very good anyway.
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[davidw]

Thank you, Flecc, a comprehensive yet beautifully succinct summary
David