Mechanical disc brakes are dead. Long live the mechanical disc brake. For those who want reliable braking performance and don’t want to bother with the maintenance of hydraulic systems, mechanical disc brakes are still a top choice. I’m a big fan of this technology myself, not only because I love the size of mechanical brake levers, but also because a simple mechanical setup seems more serviceable for bikepacking adventures.
Two models of mechanical disc brake calipers have stood out in my personal experience: the Growtac Equal from Japan and the TRP HY/RD from Taiwan. Both have their fan base, but which brake suits you and your setup better? Anton makes the comparison.
Design and function: minimalism or hybrid?
Growtac Equal: The Growtac Equal is based entirely on the “keep it simple” principle. Completely mechanical, very light (136 grams per brake caliper including pads!) and with a clean, minimalist design, it is made for all those who don’t want to compromise on weight. And with the best performance.
TRP HY/RD: This is where the hybrid approach comes into play. The TRP HY/RD combines mechanical control via Bowden cable with a small hydraulic system directly on the brake calliper. The aim? To combine the simple installation of a mechanical brake with the power and modulation of a hydraulic system. The design is a little more bulky, but the performance is impressive. However, this design comes at the expense of weight: the brake calliper weighs over 200 grams.
Brake feel and performance
Growtac Equal: The brake impresses with ultra-direct feedback. When you pull, something happens – without any delay. Perfect if you’re a fan of precise modulation. On long descents or in wet conditions, however, it can’t quite keep up with purely hydraulic systems. The performance also depends heavily on the correct adjustment of the brake – more on this below.
TRP HY/RD: Thanks to the hydraulic support, the HY/RD provides more braking power and quite good modulation, especially in critical moments you will notice the difference. I’m a fan of the TRP brakes, even if the Growtac delivers better performance in dry conditions.
Installation and maintenance
Growtac Equal: Basically, maintenance of the Growtac is super easy! No bleeding, no special tools. You just need a little fine-tuning on the cables and you’re ready to ride. Perfect for mechanics who want to get their bike in shape themselves. However, the Growtac Equal has a fixed brake pad that has to be adjusted manually to achieve optimum braking performance. This can be annoying, as grinding noises occur if the adjustment is too tight.
TRP HY/RD: The installation is relatively straightforward, but the hydraulic element adds a bit of complexity. If something should go wrong with the hydraulics, you will definitely need more know-how or a visit to the workshop. The TRP HY/RD should also be bled (bleed) from time to time, as is also necessary with a fully hydraulic system. Both brake pistons move in the caliper and thus compensate for the wear of the brake pads! A feature that I really appreciate and that the Growtac does not have. The brake pads of the TRP brakes are slightly larger than those of the Growtac.
Compatibility: For every set-up?
Both brakes are compatible with almost all mechanical shift and brake levers. Regardless of whether you ride SRAM, Shimano or Campagnolo – they work. The Growtac Equal is primarily intended for bikes that rely on low weight and a clean look, while the TRP HY/RD is interesting for all those who want maximum braking power without having to switch to complete hydraulic systems. Note: there are so-called short pull and long pull brake levers, both brake callipers work with short pull, but there is also a conversion kit for the TRP brake for even better braking power with short pull.
In addition, due to the height of the TRP brake, the installation dimension on the rear axle must be taken into account; there could be problems with small frame sizes.
Price and value for money
Growtac Equal: Not cheap but good. You get a super light and reliable brake that will exceed your expectations of mechanical systems. Importing from Japan also incurs relatively high transportation and customs costs.
TRP HY/RD: The TRP brakes are now available quite cheaply and you get a hybrid system that comes close to fully hydraulic brakes in terms of performance. It is particularly worthwhile for gravel adventures or long descents. However, a fully hydraulic brake caliper is still cheaper and ultimately better in terms of braking performance.
What other mechanical brakes are there?
The Juin Tech GT-F – A real alternative for power lovers
The Juin Tech GT-F is aimed at riders who want the best of both worlds: simple installation as with mechanical brakes, paired with the performance that is otherwise only known from fully hydraulic systems. Especially for gravel bikes and bikepacking adventures, where heavy loads and changing conditions are the order of the day. The GT-F comes with a 4-piston design that has been specially developed for riders looking for maximum braking power and control.
How does the GT-F fare against Growtac Equal and TRP HY/RD?
Against Growtac Equal: While the Growtac Equal impresses with its purist, mechanical design, the GT-F delivers more power thanks to its hydraulics. The difference in weight is noticeable, but the performance of the GT-F surpasses that of the Equal in intense braking moments.
Against TRP HY/RD: Both are hybrid systems, but the GT-F stands out due to the additional braking power of the 4-piston design. If you often ride steep or technical trails, the GT-F offers better control.
Negative aspects of the GT-F
The GT-F tends to overheat on long descents. Due to the very small hydraulic expansion tank, the hydraulic fluid expands and, in the worst case, blocks the brake. This can of course be prevented by taking short breaks on long descents.
TRP Spyre: The classic among mechanical disc brakes
The TRP Spyre is one of the most popular purely mechanical disc brakes and offers an unbeatable combination of price, performance and simplicity. Its unique selling point is the dual-piston mechanism, in which both brake pads are moved simultaneously. This ensures more even pad wear and more precise modulation. A simple solution that works quite well.
Youtube Video about this topic: www.youtube.com/watch?v=S1aLLsxIX3Y