Why Some Pros Still Use Rim Brakes for Mountain Stages

The Weight, Feel, and Strategy Behind This Choice

In recent years, disc brakes have become the dominant technology in professional road cycling. Almost every WorldTour team has made the switch, and disc brakes are now considered the new standard.
Yet, even in 2025, you’ll occasionally see professional riders choosing rim brake bikes—particularly for key mountain stages in Grand Tours.

Why does this seemingly outdated choice still hold appeal for some of the world’s fastest climbers?
Let’s break it down.

1. Weight Savings: Every Gram Matters

The most important reason some pros still opt for rim brakes in the mountains is weight.

A disc brake system typically adds 300 to 500 grams to a bike compared to a rim brake setup.

In steep mountain stages, especially with summit finishes, this difference can translate to measurable energy savings and faster climbing times.

When fighting for seconds in the general classification (GC), lighter bikes are still king on the steepest slopes.

2. Simplicity and Mechanical Efficiency

Rim brake bikes are:

Easier to maintain.

Mechanically simpler.

Less prone to issues like rotor rub or hydraulic failure.

For riders who prefer a predictable, familiar braking feel—especially those who grew up racing on rim brakes—the tactile response and mechanical connection of rim brakes can still feel more natural and direct.

3. Faster Wheel Swaps in Critical Moments

In the heat of a race, quick wheel changes can make or break a GC rider’s day.

Rim brake wheels can be swapped out significantly faster than disc brake wheels.

No need to worry about rotor alignment or axle tightening.

This can save precious seconds during a mechanical, especially when a neutral support vehicle is involved.

Although disc brakes have improved in this area, some pros and teams still trust rim brake setups for smoother, faster pit stops in the mountains.

4. Better Descending Feel for Some Riders

This one is subjective, but some pros report:

More braking modulation and finesse with rim brakes on long alpine descents.

Less chance of disc brake overheating (an issue that has largely been addressed with modern rotors, but still lingers in rider psychology).

Especially for riders who have spent most of their careers on rim brakes, comfort and confidence on technical descents can trump pure braking power.

5. Team Strategy and Rider Preference Still Matter

While many teams push for full disc brake adoption to simplify logistics, some riders negotiate for personal setups on critical stages.
For example:

Riders with lightweight climbing frames available in rim brake versions may specifically request them for mountain days.

Some teams still stock rim brake bikes for riders with strong preferences, particularly in the Giro d’Italia or Vuelta a España.

Even in an era dominated by data and marginal gains, comfort, familiarity, and trust in one’s equipment still hold significant weight.

6. The Shift is Almost Complete—but Not Absolute

It’s clear that rim brakes are disappearing from the pro peloton.
However:

Occasional sightings of rim brake bikes in mountain stages remind us that cycling technology is not always one-size-fits-all.

Some race conditions, rider psychology, and equipment choices still leave room for rim brakes at the highest level.

Final Thoughts: Rim Brakes Aren’t Dead—Yet

While disc brakes offer undeniable advantages in most situations—better wet-weather braking, more tire clearance, and stronger stopping power—the mountains still offer a final battleground where weight and simplicity can take priority.

So, if you still ride rim brakes and love mountain climbing, don’t worry—you’re in good company.
Some of the world’s best climbers still make the same choice, not out of nostalgia, but out of performance strategy.