ROLL-er BRAKE-s
Noun
A type of bicycle brake that uses a cylinder with a roller on its circumference to press against the inside of the bicycle rim.
Example usage: I just upgraded my bike to have roller brakes.
Most used in: Northern Europe, particularly the Netherlands and Germany.
Most used by: Commuters and city cyclists.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 4/10
Also see: Cantilever Brakes, Centerpull Brakes, V-Brakes, Caliper Brakes,
What are Roller Brakes?
Roller brakes are a type of bicycle brake system that uses a roller that rotates against a cam to create friction to slow down the bike. This type of braking system is popular on city bikes, touring bikes, and cargo bikes, as it is more reliable and low-maintenance than other types of brakes.
Roller brakes are easy to install and repair, and they require minimal maintenance. They are also relatively inexpensive compared to other types of brakes, so they are a popular choice for budget-conscious cyclists. The downside of roller brakes is that they do not offer as much stopping power as other types of brakes, so they are not ideal for mountain biking or road cycling.
According to statistics published by the Bicycle Product Suppliers Association, roller brakes account for around 8% of the brakes found on bicycles in the US. This makes them the third most popular type of brake after rim brakes and disc brakes.
In summary, roller brakes are a type of bicycle brake system that uses a roller to create friction in order to slow down the bike. They are popular on city bikes, touring bikes, and cargo bikes due to their reliability, low-maintenance, and affordability. While they are not as powerful as other types of brakes, they are still a popular choice for budget-conscious cyclists.
.Roller Brakes: A History
Roller brakes, also known as backpedal brakes, are a type of bicycle brake system. The system was first used in the early 1900s, and was popularized in the 1930s in Germany and the Netherlands. The original roller brakes were made of rubber, and were used on bikes with no gears.
The term 'roller brakes' was coined in the late 1950s, when companies began to produce metal roller brakes. These brakes were made of steel and had a more efficient braking system than the rubber brakes. The roller brakes also allowed for the use of multiple gears. This made them popular among cyclists who wanted more control over their speed.
Today, roller brakes are still used on some bicycles, although they have largely been replaced by disc brakes. However, they are still popular among some cyclists who prefer the simplicity of the roller brake system.