Disc Brakes vs Rim Brakes: Which Is Best for Climbers and Racers?

The Ultimate Braking Debate for 2025: What Suits Your Ride Style?

When it comes to road cycling performance, few debates are as enduring as disc brakes vs rim brakes. In 2025, most high-end bikes come equipped with discs, but many climbers and racers still swear by rim setups for their weight savings and simplicity.

So, which braking system is truly better for climbing and racing? Let’s break it down by weight, performance, cost, and handling—so you can decide what’s best for your riding style.

 Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Disc Brakes	Rim Brakes
Braking Power	Stronger & consistent in all conditions	Less powerful, especially when wet
Weight	Heavier (~300–400g more)	Lighter, especially for climbers
Maintenance	More complex	Easier to service and adjust
Tire Clearance	Wider (ideal for modern wide rims)	Narrower rim compatibility
Aero Profile	Slightly less aerodynamic	Slightly more aero in some setups
Cost	Higher (components + build)	Lower overall cost

⛰️ Rim Brakes: The Climber’s Classic

Pros:

Lightweight: Saves up to 400g over disc setups—key for climbing.

Simple mechanics: Easy to maintain, adjust, and replace on the fly.

Better airflow: Rim brake bikes often weigh less and have cleaner profiles.

More affordable: Lower initial cost and cheaper replacement parts.

Cons:

Weaker in wet conditions: Long descents in rain = reduced control.

Heat build-up: Hard braking on carbon rims can overheat.

Tire width limits: Most rim brakes max out around 28mm tires.

 Best for: Riders who race or climb in dry conditions, weight-conscious cyclists, or those using traditional 23–25C tires.

 Disc Brakes: The Modern Racer’s Weapon

Pros:

Superior stopping power: Works in rain, mud, or heat—especially on descents.

Modulation: More control with gradual, powerful braking.

Wider tire clearance: Great for 28–32C tires, even gravel-capable.

More wheel options: Nearly all modern carbon wheels are disc-only.

Cons:

Weight penalty: Discs, rotors, calipers, and thru-axles add grams.

More complex maintenance: Requires tools, bleeding, rotor alignment.

Potential noise: Can squeal or rub if not adjusted perfectly.

Best for: Aggressive descenders, riders in wet or varied weather, and those using 28C+ tires for endurance or racing.

 What the Pros Ride (2025 Snapshot)

Tour de France Climbers: Many still prefer rim brakes for weight savings on summit finishes.

Classics Racers & All-Rounders: Use disc brakes for better control on technical descents and wet cobbles.

Gravel & Endurance Riders: Disc brakes are the default for versatility and power.

 Which Brake Type Matches Your Goals?

Rider Type	Recommended Brake System
Weight-focused climber	Rim brakes (e.g, Superteam Rim Climber build)
Rain-or-shine racer	Disc brakes (e.g, Superteam Disc D45 + Shimano GRX)
Weekend club rider	Disc for reliability, or rim for easy DIY fixes
Commuter / mixed terrain	Disc, especially with tubeless tires
Long alpine descents	Disc brakes for temperature control & safety

 Bonus: Can You Still Find High-End Rim Brake Bikes?

Yes—but options are limited. Major brands have shifted to disc-only builds for mid-to-high-end road bikes. However, custom builders and brands like Superteam, Light Bicycle, and certain Trek/Canyon models still support rim-brake frame + wheel combos for climbers and traditionalists.

Final Verdict: Rim or Disc?

If you prioritize...	Choose...
Light weight & simplicity	Rim brakes
Control in all weather	Disc brakes
Wide tire clearance & future-proofing	Disc brakes
Lower cost and DIY servicing	Rim brakes

In 2025, disc brakes are the dominant choice—but rim brakes still make sense for climbers, weight weenies, and riders looking for the classic road feel.