What's the difference between mechanical and hydraulic disc brakes?

With both mechanical and hydraulic brakes, a rider slows and stops their e-bike by activating the brake, pressing brake pads against part of the bike’s wheel to slow its rotation. 

But while both options perform better than traditional rim brakes, particularly in wet conditions, mechanical disc brakes struggle to match the efficiency of hydraulic systems. There are other differences to be aware of, too.

Here are the key differences in mechanical vs. hydraulic disc brakes on e-bikes:

	Mechanical	Hydraulic
1. Braking Mechanism	Pressing the brake lever generates force onto cables, which squeezes the brake pads & stops the bike	Pressing the brake lever expels brake fluid through hoses, which squeezes the brake pads & stops the bike
2. Responsiveness	Force applied to the brake lever is equal to the force applied to the brake	Force applied to the brake lever is multiplied by the force of the brake fluid, increasing overall force delivered to the brake
3. Weight	Typically lighter weight	Typically heavier weight
4. Maintenance	Regular maintenance is required for optimal performance; ok for a home mechanic	Minimal maintenance is required; ok for an experienced home mechanic, but best handled by a bike shop or dealer

To learn more, click to check out our Magnum Academy articles on Mechanical Brakes and Hydraulic Brakes.