[Tim Kenichi]

Hi, this is my first post here. I recently got into cycling and bought a Cannondale SuperSix Tiagra. I mainly ride flat roads and some rolling hills. My group is planning to try the Glendora Mountain Road (about 5.5%) in two months. Do I need new brakes for the ride if I have the Tiagra 4600 with the stock pads?

From my search on the forum, it looks like braking technique is more important than the kind of brakes I have? Or maybe brake pads replacement would be enough? I don't foresee riding moderate to steep downhill every week. Please help, thanks!

TK

 

[Cartoscro]

I've got the same setup, and I don't have any braking issues. Granted I'm not riding any super long descents on the brakes. But on the longer descents around here, I will alternate the front and rear to scrub the speed.

 

[Jay Strongbow]

Calipers don't make much, if any, difference at all.
Pads, set up and clean rims and pads do.

Just make sure they are set up correctly (so the pad hits flush with the brake track) and clean.

 

[PJ352]

I think you'll be fine with your stock setup, but for an extra margin of safety, consider Kool Stop salmons. Would probably be superior in wet conditions.

Kool Stop Dura 2 Brake Insert (Salmon) : Amazon.com : Sports & Outdoors

 

[Tim Kenichi]

Thank you very much!

 

[wanderinwalker]

How long is this 5.5% grade? I ask because I rode down plenty of 8-9% grade hills with the stock, unbranded calipers on my old Trek. A swap to KoolStops and it was acceptable. At any rate, I suspect your brakes will be fine.

(New bike has Apex calipers and they are noticeably more solid than the calipers on the old bike.)

 

[Tim Kenichi]

How long is this 5.5% grade?

It's a little bit over 8 miles.