[Louie4]

I'll bet this has been asked before but I'll go ahead anyway. I have a Trek 4500 mountain bike that I got from my buddy who is an avid biker. It has the v-brake setup but it also has mounting for disc brakes. My question is, is it worth the time and the money to do the conversion or should I just keep this bike as a beginner bike? I don't plan on getting anything new until I'm more experienced. I've heard that it makes more sense to just buy a new bike with the disc brakes already on it.

[HandsomeRyan]

Probably not worth the cost of converting. Just ride it as-is until you are ready to upgrade to a nicer bike.

[BlazingPedals]

I agree, save your money for now and get them on your next bike.

[Louie4]

Thanks guys. That's what I figured. I'll just ride this one until I feel that I'm ready to upgrade.

[HandsomeRyan]

Disc brakes are awesome (especially hydraulic but even cable actuated are better than most V and cantilever setups).

Nice avatar BTW. That show cracks me up.

[Louie4]

I've heard hydraulic is the way to go but even cable is a big improvement. I rode one with cable disc brakes and it stopped on a dime.

I'm surprised you watch that show. I have another avatar of Early on Jeepforum and no one knows what it is. It's a hilarious show and I'm a huge [adultswim] fan, except for the japanimation. I especially like Squidbillies because it takes place in the North Georgia Mountains near where I grew up.

[dovitsky]

it depends, if you have mounts on the frame and fork for disc brakes, and you already have hubs with an IS-6 disc brake mount, then go a head and do it. A pair of Avid Juicy 3s or 5s will make a great first disc brake. Or splurge, a pair Avid Elixers are amazing, and wow, the the Elixers XX are just the best brake I have ever rode.

[Louie4]

I have the mounts on the frame and fork but the hubs will not accept the disc. After comparing the cost to upgrade and the cost of a new bike, I think a new bike would be a better idea.

[Mootsguy]

Originally Posted by Louie4

I have the mounts on the frame and fork but the hubs will not accept the disc. After comparing the cost to upgrade and the cost of a new bike, I think a new bike would be a better idea.

It is pretty simple, AVID BB7's are in your price range and are exactly what you are looking for.

However, for a few sheckles more you can upgrade your disc brakes to AVID Ultimate Linear Pull brakes and short of Juicy 7's or Hope's you will not find a better stopping brake. Plus they have the advantage of being super light.

[HandsomeRyan]

I stand by saying that it probably isn't worth it to add disc brakes to that frame but if you were really interested it looks like you could do it for roughly $180 for a [new] entry-level setup. [less if you buy used]

$70 disc brake set [not super fancy but should still get the job done]


$110 disc compatible rims