Posted by: rug

Isn’t amazing without brake in earlier bicycles? Brakes then came in to existence in form of an effective mechanism for slowing and stopping devices which made bikes popular. These brakes in bike helped to increase the frictional force on the wheels, which enables the rider to slow down or stop the bicycles. There was another requirement, steering which helped the cyclist to negotiate steep turns without falling off. The braking equipment have changed now but fundamentals of steering and controlling a bicycle yet to be change.

The plunger was the first widely used braking system. In 1800 this plunger material was initially implemented on the high-wheeled bicycles. The main purpose of the plunger was to slowing down a bicycle. The technology was like a metal shoe had pressed against the outer side of a tire to create friction so that it helped the bicycle to stop. This system was drawback due to excess wear and tear on the tire. Even after covering the metal shoe with rubber, this system did not work with pneumatic tire. So on the wet surfaces the performance of the plunger was also poor as water decreased the friction between the brake shoe and tire. It also reduced the braking power of the bicycle.

Then after plunger a new system was introduced like coaster brakes. You may found this coaster brakes system in sophisticated bicycles like cruisers and utility bicycles which are still used in widely. These brakes are also found in some children’s tricycles and bicycles today. The function of this brakes works against the motion of the pedals. The mechanism of this brake is inside the hub of the wheel. This system has worked well to stop the bike uniformly as it is very strong. It also tends to lock up or skid the rear wheel when engaged then it able to stop the bike.