KO-stuh brakez
Noun, Verb
A type of bicycle brake operated by pedaling backward.
Example usage: I had to use my coaster brakes to stop my bike quickly.
Most used in: Urban and suburban cycling communities.
Most used by: Recreational cyclists.
Popularity: 7
Comedy Value: 4
Also see: Freewheel hub, Drum Brake, Backpedal Brake, Internal Gear Hub,
What Are Coaster Brakes in Cycling?
Coaster brakes are a type of bicycle brake that is commonly found on single-speed and 3-speed bicycles. They are also known as back-pedal brakes, kick-back brakes, or foot brakes. Coaster brakes are activated by pressing the pedals backward, rather than by squeezing a lever like a handbrake.
Coaster brakes are generally considered to be less efficient than handbrakes, and many cyclists choose to use a combination of coaster brakes and handbrakes. According to a survey by the National Sporting Goods Association, approximately 70% of bicycles in the United States are equipped with coaster brakes.
Coaster brakes are a simple and reliable design, and they are relatively easy to maintain. They are typically made from steel, and the braking mechanism is enclosed in a housing, which helps to protect it from dirt and moisture. Coaster brakes are generally considered to be a safe and reliable braking system, but they do not provide as much stopping power as handbrakes.
In conclusion, coaster brakes are a type of bicycle brake that is activated by pressing the pedals backward. They are relatively easy to maintain, and they are generally considered to be a safe and reliable braking system. However, coaster brakes are not as efficient as handbrakes, and most cyclists choose to use a combination of coaster brakes and handbrakes.
.The Origin of Coaster Brakes: A Brief History of Cycling
The term 'coaster brakes' can be traced back to the early 1900s, when the first bicycles with such brakes were produced in England and the United States. The name 'coaster brakes' derives from the fact that the brake is activated by the rider pushing back on the pedals in a 'coasting' motion. This type of brake was the first to be widely used on bicycles, and was common until the 1970s.
Coaster brakes are most commonly found on single-speed and three-speed bicycles. They are known for their simplicity, requiring no cables or levers, and are relatively easy to maintain. They are also highly effective in wet weather, as they are not affected by water.
Today, coaster brakes are often seen as outdated technology and are used mainly on children's bicycles. However, some riders prefer the simplicity of coaster brakes and still use them on their adult bikes. As a result, bicycle manufacturers continue to produce coaster brakes for use on certain models.
