Drum brakes Bicycle brake

bicycle drum brakes operate of car, although bicycle variety use cable rather hydraulic actuation. 2 pads pressed outward against braking surface on inside of hub shell. shell inside diameters on bicycle drum brake typically 70–120 mm (2.756–4.724 in). drum brakes have been used on front hubs , hubs both internal , external freewheels. both cable- , rod-operated drum brake systems have been produced.

a roller brake modular cable-operated drum brake manufactured shimano use on specially splined front , rear hubs. unlike traditional drum brake, roller brake can removed hub. models contain torque-limiting device called power modulator designed make difficult skid wheel. in practice can reduce effectiveness on bicycles adult-sized wheels.

drum brakes common on utility bicycles in countries, netherlands, , found on freight bicycles , velomobiles. older tandem bicycles employed rear drum brake drag brake.

drum brakes provide consistent braking in wet or dirty conditions since mechanism enclosed. heavier, more complicated, , weaker rim brakes, require less maintenance. drum brakes not adapt quick release axle fastening, , removing drum brake wheel requires operator disconnect brake cable axle. require torque arm must anchored frame or fork of bicycle, , not bicycles constructed accommodate such fastenings or tolerate applied forces.