I’ve got a good collection of bikes, but in the Pacific Northwest, the bike that gets the most action is my rain bike. It’s my commuter most days, and after years of replacing brake pads monthly for only marginal stopping power – I have found the light: Disc Brakes on a road bike. Fender routing is simple with plenty of tire clearance. Stopping power is never in question in even the heaviest downpours. I’m sure many commuters who ride in more of an upright “mountain” position have been riding discs for years, but I’m happy to have finally made the jump. There a couple major brands out there with offerings (Kona Sutra, Redline Disc-R, Trek Portland), as well as some smaller frame builders who have put together some nice custom setups (Marcroft Cycles, Clemente Cycles). If Santa’s bringing a new bike this year – maybe remember to share the love with the rain bike?
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