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What Is A Brake?
Choosing the right brakes for your vehicle is crucial not only for your safety but also for enhancing its performance. Brakes are a critical component in any vehicle, and understanding their key elements—rotors, pads, brake lines, and callipers—will help you make an informed decision. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down each component and provide insights into choosing the right brakes for both street and track driving conditions.
Brake Components: A Brief Overview
Before delving into the specifics of choosing the right brakes, it's essential to understand the primary components that make up your vehicle's braking system:
Rotors: Also known as brake discs, rotors are the circular metal discs that the brake pads press against to create friction and slow down the vehicle. Quality rotors are essential for efficient heat dissipation and consistent braking performance. You can have cast or two piece rotors which can alter the efficiency and longevity of the rotor itself.
Pads: Brake pads are responsible for applying pressure to the rotors, generating the friction required to stop the vehicle. The type and quality of brake pads significantly impact your vehicle's stopping power, wear, and noise levels.
Brake Lines: Brake lines are responsible for carrying the brake fluid from the master cylinder to the callipers. High-quality brake lines are essential to ensure the hydraulic system functions smoothly and reliably. In the case of standard driving OEM brake lines are made from rubber and do a pretty good job, it is crucial you look to upgrade these especially as the 6+ year mark comes up. More to consider below…
Callipers: Callipers house the brake pads and are responsible for squeezing them against the rotors when you apply the brakes. The type of callipers, including their size and materials, can greatly affect braking performance.
Now, let's explore the factors you need to consider when choosing brakes for different driving conditions.
Brakes For Street Driving:
For everyday street driving, your priorities should be safety, durability, and comfort. Here's how to choose the right brakes for your daily commute:
Brake Pads: Opt for high-quality, ceramic brake pads that offer good stopping power, low noise, and minimal dust production. Brands like DBA & Hawk Performance provide a wide range of reliable ceramic brake pads for street driving.
Rotors: Slotted or drilled rotors can provide better cooling and reduce the risk of brake fade during heavy braking. Consider DBA's T2 or T3 performance rotors for improved heat dissipation and longevity. Another point to note is that cast iron does do the job however the cast iron does heat up very quickly.
Brake Lines: Stainless steel braided brake lines are a solid choice for street driving. They enhance brake pedal feel and responsiveness while providing durability. HEL & Goodridge braided brake lines are a great option to consider. For example in the case of HEL brake line kits, they eliminate that 'spongy' feeling often found with rubber hoses under extreme braking conditions - the time when performance is needed the most. By replacing the original rubber hoses with our complete system you will remove this sponginess and your braking will deliver new levels of precision.
Callipers: Upgrading callipers for street driving is often unnecessary. Most stock callipers are suitable for daily use. However if your goal is to push big power in a street car, especially one that has a heavy load rating then you must look at your options. Perhaps upgrading to a 4-pot calliper might be the next best option.
Brakes For Track Driving:
When it comes to track driving, the requirements are entirely different. Performance, heat resistance, and consistent braking are paramount. Here's how to choose the right brakes for the track:
Brake Pads: Track-specific brake pads are designed to withstand high temperatures and provide exceptional stopping power whilst removing brake dust and foreign material from the rotor. Brands like DBA, Elig, Project Mu & Hawk Performance offer a range of high-performance track brake pads that are built to last the most intense track days.
Rotors: Slotted rotors are essential to dissipate heat during intense track sessions. Opt for high-quality rotors from DBA or Alcon, renowned for their heat-resistant designs. When it comes to drilled Rotors for the track it really depends on the platform you are driving and the style of driving. The common issue is the potential cracking. For this reason we suggest you look at drilled rotors that are punished and proven to work 100% of the time. If you’re super diligent you would know that two piece rotors are the way forward such as Alcon’s.
They are less prone to warp or crack from excessive heat. This is because the aluminium hat stays cool and the iron core takes the brunt of it.
Brake Lines: High-performance stainless steel braided brake lines are a must for the track. They can handle the increased stress and heat generated during aggressive driving. HEL offers durable brake lines suitable for track use.
Callipers: Upgrading to high-performance callipers can significantly improve braking performance on the track. Brands like Alcon are known for their track-ready callipers, designed for precision and heat management.
Key Brake Factors to Consider:
Regardless of your driving conditions, certain factors should guide your brake selection:
- Material Quality: Always choose high-quality materials for all brake components. Superior materials improve durability and overall performance.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the brakes you choose are compatible with your vehicle's make and model. It's also important to check if they fit within your budget.
- Environmental Impact: Consider eco-friendly options, such as low-dust brake pads, if you want to reduce your environmental footprint.
- Brand Reputation: Trustworthy brands like Alcon, Elig, DBA, Hawk, Project Mu, Dixcel, have a history of delivering reliable brake components. Which is why we at Pro Speed Racing push these brands so hard.
- Budget: While high-performance brakes are an investment, it's essential to balance your budget with the level of performance you need. Remember that high-quality brakes are an investment in safety and performance.
- Installation and Maintenance: Consider whether you have the skills and tools to install and maintain the chosen brake components. If not, it's wise to consult a professional mechanic.
Buying the Right Brake:
Selecting the right brakes for your vehicle is a decision that shouldn't be taken lightly. Whether you're driving on the street or the track, understanding the importance of key components like rotors, pads, brake lines, and callipers is crucial. By prioritising safety, performance, and durability, you can make an informed choice that ensures both your safety and driving satisfaction.
For high-quality brake components, consider renowned brands like DBA, Alcon, and Elig. Remember that investing in quality brakes is an investment in the overall performance and safety of your vehicle, regardless of your driving conditions. So, take the time to research and choose the right brakes that will keep you safe and enhance your driving experience.
If you have anymore questions around buying the right brake for your vehicle simply get in touch with us on 02 4340 4463, you can also send an email to enquiry@prospeedracing.com.au
Address: 1/ 49 Somersby Falls Rd, Somersby, NSW, 2023
