Have you ever grabbed too much front brake and flipped over the bars? I’m ashamed to admit I have, but it was largely because I was trying to learn how to ride a nosie. It was a painful experience and it’s one that I’ve seen many of my friends replicate on their first mountain bike rides.
A Canadian company, King Industry, has decided to put an end to the humiliation. Their new line up of brake pads set to be introduced over the course of this year uses a mechanical interface to prevent the wheel from locking up. As the wheel spins, the metal attachment vibrates, and jerks the brake pads free if the wheel locks.
Follow the link for more info and a video clip..
A standard set (two pads), will set you back $109 USD. Claimed weight is 160 grams. The pads are built by Japan Rubber Company and are said to withstand 8-16 months of regular use depending on rider loads. A replacement set will set you back $40.
Riders interested in this tech will benefit most from replacing their front brake. Currently, only v-brake pads are available for sale, but other pads will be released next month. King Industries plans on releasing disc brake pads in the future as well.
Shimano offers a product which provides a similar feature set at a much lower price for V-brakes. Their power modulator replaces the standard V-brake noodle and contains a spring. If you start to brake too hard, the cable guide absorbs the excess lever force, and creates an incredibly mushy feel.
I’ve never used either the Shimano Power Modulator or SABS brake pads but I can understand the appeal. I’ve encountered too many recreational cyclists and daily commuters who are afraid of their front brake.
