Does it matter what make of disc brake rotor I get?

Father Faff

I've upgraded my original Formula Oro 160mm front rotor to a 180mm rotor, but made by Tektra rather than Formula, however it feels quite different and I'm not sure it quite has the bite of my old original rotor and seems to "chatter" perhaps because the holes in the rotor are bigger. I think the rotor and new pads have had enough time and hard braking to wear in.

So do people think there is a benefit to paying twice as much for a Formula Oro rotor or do I just need more time for everything to wear in?

supersonic

Some rotors do make a difference - if the depth of the braking surface is narrower say, the pads may catch the rotor arms.

Father Faff

No that's not the problem. The tektra braking surface is actually wider than the Formula surface but the holes are considerably bigger (8mm diameter) on the Tektra rotor compared to the Formula rotor (5mm) and I suspect that's what's causing the "chattery" feel. It may also mean there is slightly less metal in contact with the pad on the Tektras. Another thing I've just noticed is that the Tektras are thicker rotors at about 2mm to the Fomulas 1.5mm or so!

supersonic

Yes, the pattern can make differences in noise and feel. I think you are right in what you are feeling. It is not detrimental, but can be annoying! Good about the depth anyway, that can cause uneven wear.

The width of the rotor shouldn't be a problem - the pads auto adjust when the pistons are reset and the pads wear.

Father Faff

Well the pads had to be filed down a bit to get them in and they still rub a bit!

gezzza

Some rotors prefer certain pads

detreox

does this mean that you can have say a hope floating rotor for a set of avids or something

supersonic

Not usually for the depth issues as above - it can catch the rivets.

Father Faff

Rivets? What rivets?

nicklouse

detreox wrote:

does this mean that you can have say a hope floating rotor for a set of avids or something

the avid removal taps can cause problems with the hope floaters.

nicklouse

Father Faff wrote:

Well the pads had to be filed down a bit to get them in and they still rub a bit!

sounds like you had not pushed the pads home.

no probs with my non formula rotors.

pics of yours.

supersonic

Father Faff wrote:

Rivets? What rivets?

Have a look at a hope floating rotor.



See them?

Father Faff

I'll get me specs....