breiks
Noun
A device used to slow down or stop a bicycle.
Example usage: I need to hit the brakes before I crash.
Most used in: Cycling communities worldwide.
Most used by: Cyclists of all levels.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 2/10
Also see: Brake Levers, Caliper Brakes, Cantilever Brakes, Disc Brakes,
What are Brakes?
Brakes are an essential component of any bicycle, providing cyclists with the ability to slow down and stop safely. Brakes use friction to reduce the speed of the bicycle, making cycling a safer and more enjoyable experience.
There are two main types of brakes used on bicycles: rim brakes and disc brakes. Rim brakes use friction pads that clamp onto the wheel rims to slow the bike down. Disc brakes, on the other hand, use a rotor attached to the wheel hub and are operated by a brake caliper. Disc brakes are becoming increasingly popular among cyclists due to their superior braking power and control.
According to a survey conducted by the Bicycle Product Suppliers Association, in 2018, nearly 43% of bicycles sold in the US had disc brakes, compared to just 28% in 2013. This indicates a growing trend towards the use of disc brakes in the cycling industry.
Brakes are an important safety feature of any bicycle, and it is important to ensure they are in good working condition before each ride. Regular maintenance and inspection of brakes can help ensure a safe and enjoyable cycling experience.
The Origin of the Term 'Brakes' in Cycling
The term 'brakes' first appeared in the context of cycling in the late 19th century. It is believed to have been coined by James Starley, an English inventor and businessman who is known as the 'father of the bicycle industry'. He is credited with many inventions, including the differential gear, the tangent spokes, and the first commercially successful safety bicycle.
The first recorded use of the word 'brakes' in relation to cycling was in 1887, when Starley used it in a patent for a device that allowed cyclists to slow down their bicycles. The device was designed to be attached to the pedals, and it allowed the cyclist to apply pressure to the pedals to slow the bike down. This was the first use of the term 'brakes' in cycling, and it has been in use ever since.
Since then, the term 'brakes' has come to refer to a wide variety of devices used to slow down or stop a bicycle. From rim brakes to disc brakes, the term has evolved to encompass all types of bicycle braking systems.
The term 'brakes' is now commonly used in the context of cycling all over the world, and it is a testament to James Starley's ingenuity that this simple word is still in use today.
