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20 Best Road Bike Disc Brake Rotors (Jan 2023 Update)
Are you looking for the Best Road Bike Disc Brake Rotors? If so, you’ve come to the right place.
Choosing the Best Road Bike Disc Brake Rotors can be difficult as there are so many considerations, such as Avid, Hope, Magura, Shimano, SRAM, TEKTRO. We have done a lot of research to find the Top 20 Best Road Bike Disc Brake Rotors available.
The average cost is $47.15. Sold comparable range in price from a low of $26.79 to a high of $83.00.
Based on the research we did, we think Shimano SM-RT70 SLX Centerlock Disc Brake Rotor 160mm is the best overall. Read on for the rest of the great options and our buying guide, where you can find all the information you need to know before making an informed purchase.
20 Best Road Bike Disc Brake Rotors (20 Sellers)
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Features:
- Ice-tech construction uses stainless steel brake surfaces with an aluminum core
- The higher heat dissipation of the aluminum helps to reduce the surface temperature
- High stopping power and practically no signs of fading
Features:
- Lightweight and sleek design
- Mud shedding design
- New tightening plate
Features:
- Reduced power fading ensuring consistent high performance even on long downhill stretches
- Helps increasing brake pads life and reducing noise
- Recommended both for road or mountain bike braking systems
$39.99
4.8
Reviewers Noted:
Build quality
Features:
- 160mm 6-bolt ice-tech rotor
- Aluminum core construction
- Lowers operating temperature
Features:
- A mountain bike specific rotor designed to improve brake performance while reducing noise and increasing heat dissipation
- New brake track pattern for increased pad traction and recessed spokes with thermal dissipating paint
- Hs2 is more powerful, and quieter rotor with best-in-class heat management
Features:
- International standard 6-bolt rotor
- Designed to keep the center of friction consistent throughout rotation thereby minimizing vibration offering consistent performance and a quiet ride
- Uci compliant rounded edges
Features:
- Consistently high performance braking
- New ice technologies freeza construction to improve heat dissipation
- Stable and versatile brake performance in the most
Features:
- Friction material: steel
- Thick friction ring: 2 mm
- Brake compatibility: the whole mt family
Features:
- Fastening system: 6 holes.
- Diameter: 160mm.
- Weight aprox: 120gr.
Features:
- A mountain bike specific rotor designed to improve brake performance while reducing noise and increasing heat dissipation
- New brake track pattern for increased pad traction and recessed spokes with thermal dissipating paint
- Hs2 is more powerful, and quieter rotor with best-in-class heat management
Features:
- Perfect for demanding applications such as e-bike or downhill riding
- Two-piece design offers the highest level of heat dissipation and high torque transfer
- Wear optimized ring design
$65.00
4.7
Features:
- Round edge braking surface
- Custom steel braking surface riveted to an aluminium central carrier
- Standard 6 bolt fitting
$65.00
4.7
Features:
- Round edge braking surface
- Custom steel braking surface riveted to an aluminium central carrier
- Standard 6 bolt fitting
$34.99
4.6
Features:
- Features clean sweep edges that keep pads clean while providing maximum stopping power and cooling
- International standard 6-bolt (44 mm bcd)
- Can be used for various models, based on the different sizes available
Features:
- Six-bolt mount
- One-piece steel design is strong and dissipates heat quickly
- Twin diameter contact pattern keeps friction forces centered on rotor
Features:
- Revolutionary innovation
- Performance that is simply second to none
- Achieve the ultimate ride
Features:
- Rounded shape.
- Glass material: aluminium.
- Screw material: steel.
Features:
- Revolutionary innovation
- Performance that is simply second to none
- Achieve the ultimate ride
Features:
- Revolutionary innovation
- Performance that is simply second to none
- Achieve the ultimate ride
$68.11
4.7
Features:
- Popular amongst both performance orientated riders and those just looking for something a little different
- Custom steel braking surface riveted to an aluminium central carrier
- Floating design deals with changes in temperature
1. Shimano Sm-Rt70 Slx Centerlock Disc Brake Rotor 160mm
Product Details:
With rider-tuned slx, you can ride how you like over virtually any terrain. no matter how rough, rocky, or muddy the trail, you get the ultimate off-road stability. slx allows you and your bike to become one with the trail.these rotors are only compatible with centerlock disc hubs.
Specifications:
Reviews:
Once bedded to a set of new pads it bites real good. I have read about this ice-tech sandwich structure (steel/ally/steel) being prone to warpage and finicky to true back into shape but from my experience so far its no harder to true than any other rotor if your sensible, and hasnt shown any sign of distortion since installation and a few good rides. Cant fault one bit. Postage was fast, well wrapped/packaged and the rotor kept true through the hands of the mail man!brettooo
Top quality brake rotors as expected from shimano and well suited the wheel I have built, which will be predominantly used for riding the red and blue trails at Brechfa along with a lot of forest tracks. It was my own stupidity that I failed to check whether these came with the centerlock lockrings (they weren't included), but apart from that I was very happy with the SLX RT-70 rotors. Not yet tested as I am waiting for the centerlock lockrings to arrivellionrhun2012
2. Shimano Sm-Rt66 Disc Brake Rotor 6-Bolt 160mm
Product Details:
Shimano slx sm-rt66 6-bolt disc brake rotors deliver consistent stopping power in all riding conditions. the disc brake rotor's reliable anti-loosen plate construction makes for quick and secure installation. for use with resin or metal pads. includes rotor fixing bolts and non-turn washers. easy to install anti-loosen plates help secure disc brake rotor bolts in place.
Reviews:
I didn't have to mess with alignment with this new rotor, maybe I was lucky. I mainly am doing quick full stops, and not constant braking, so I didn't need a rotor that had more heat dissapation. Also like how these can take metal and resin pads. Good step up from the RT-56 resin-only rotors.Jonathan
3. Shimano Rt-Mt800 Center Lock Disc Rotor – 160mm
Product Details:
Cold as ice have confidence in your braking with this brilliantly designed center lock disc brake rotor. engineered with shedding heat in mind, shimano has utilised ice technologies freeza technology to provide significantly superior cooling, improving product durability and braking performance. the center lock design also works to improve braking while making the installation process incredibly quick.
Reviews:
4. Shimano Xt Sm-Rt86 6-Bolt Disc Brake Rotor, 160mm
Product Details:
Shimano sm-rt86 ice-tec disc rotor 160mm. boost your braking power. these new shimano rotors help shed weight and heat to prevent power fade. the ice tec technology sandwiches a layer of alloy between two layers of steel for better performance and weight savings. pair this rotor with a set of ice-tec pads for the ultimate in disc brake performance.
Specifications:
| Size | 160mm |
Reviews:
Theses Ice-Tech rotors do a great job at dissipating heat build up which leads to fade and reduced braking. Run these exclusively in different sizes on all my bikes – never an issue with warping or alignment and when matched with Shimano pads – even power and good modulation on my various XT hydro calipers. Plus they look great too!David D.
The rotors are too small J02A, J04C brake pad surfaces, after some time there will be an overhang cut into the top of both L&R brake pad surfaces. A combination of the left and right pads in this condition prevent the pads from fully contacting the rotor surface, causing a loss in braking performance, uneven wear causing rotor warpage. You will have to remove the pads twice during their lifetime and cut off the overhangs, or, cut / bevel 2mm of the pads top surface so the overhang does not develop. This is not a satisfactory fix as you loose some of the pads surface for braking! Both my front and rear Ice Tech rotors are matched up with Deore XT M7000 Brakes with J02A,J04C pads and Shimano 203mm Disk Brake Adapters. This does not occur with my cheap rotors that I confirmed this design flaw with. The XT M7000 brakes work very well with 'NEW' pads and matched up to the Ice-Tech 203 rotors, unfortunately the rotors get destroyed due to the design flaw and destroy the pads as well.Michael
I purchased this 203mm rotor to 'replace' the 180mm up front. I moved the 180mm front to the rear. Install notes: 1) This rotor only came with 2 of the 3 black retention tabs. Maybe it was a Monday when it was packaged good thing the take off tabs were still in good shape. 2) I purchased this with a 160mm to 203mm adaptor bracket. If your bike only has 180mm adaptors now, you will need new screws. The 180mm screws are longer. 3) Using the post direct mount adaptor gives a very solid connection, but I found it difficult to align the calipers perfectly. The 203mm rotor has slightly more out of flatness than the 180mm or the 160mm. I used playing cards, shimmed into the left and right of the pad/rotor to obtain an alignment with zero rub. (new pads & rotor = minimal clearance) Still waiting for the trail test, but rolling around the house felt good. PROS: Attractive Design, Easy To Install CONS: Missing PartHighlander
5. Sram Hs2 Center Lock Rotor '220mm
Product Details:
The sram hs2 brake discs are mtb-specific disc brakes designed to improve braking performance. the discs have a larger surface area, which means they dissipate heat better and give a higher braking force. these brake discs are also slightly thicker than usual (2 mm vs. 1.85 mm with normal discs). this makes them extremely suitable for emtbs, as well as enduro and downhill mountain bikes. finally, the noise during braking has been drastically reduced, so that you are less likely to suffer from squeaking brakes. renewed pattern and coating the new pattern of the sram hs2 brake disc provides more grip in combination with the sram brake pads. the central part is treated with a heat-dissipating coating. this makes the hs2 a powerful, quiet brake disc with best-in-class heat management.
Specifications:
Reviews:
The new disc does have a slightly noticeable firmer feel at the lever, with more bite, over the old centreline discs, and still retains great modulation (so not grabby or on/off). An improvement for sure over centreline discs! I also upped from 180-200 and once bedded in (essential process) I was able to endo even while sat down without moving my weight, whereas with centreline (180) I had to throw weight forward. So definitely much more power, and better feel – more inital bit/firmness but great modulation. How Guide brakes should have been from the off. Proper bedding in is essential though.Rupert
From SRAM. Have installed these on several bikes now with organic pads (Utah climate) and have had exceptional results. The common sense behind these rotors is nothing more than basic. But the fact that SRAM finally did it makes me happy. I will only be buying these rotors from here on out when it comes to SRAM. Thanks for bringing these in!ERIC R
So far I've had four of these, all 200mm. Three of the four have had uneven thickness, so the brakes pulse heavily (to the point where the tire will start to lose traction once per revolution under moderate braking). The rotor that doesn't have this issue feels great; it has a small amount more bite (barely perceptible) than a Centerline rotor, and doesn't overheat as quickly. Once SRAM fixes their quality control issues, I have no doubt that these will be great rotors.Dane
6. Sram Centerline Disc Rotor 220mm – 6 Bolt
Product Details:
The centreline rotor represents all that sram and avid have learned through many years of designing braking systems. these rotors are optimised to create a consistent feel. the braking surface area stays consistent regardless of position on the rotor. this design minimised the chance of vibration. the large cut outs ensure good ventilation and aid in keeping the rotor cool. the stainless steel material used is extremely robust. these will suit all avid or sram brakes – plus most other brands. weight for a 160g rotor is 112g. the "square edges" or "rounded edges" refers to the outer edges of the rotor. the newer version has the edges rounded to make them easier to line up during wheel changes and less likely to cut in crashes.
Specifications:
Reviews:
The new disc does have a slightly noticeable firmer feel at the lever, with more bite, over the old centreline discs, and still retains great modulation (so not grabby or on/off). An improvement for sure over centreline discs! I also upped from 180-200 and once bedded in (essential process) I was able to endo even while sat down without moving my weight, whereas with centreline (180) I had to throw weight forward. So definitely much more power, and better feel – more inital bit/firmness but great modulation. How Guide brakes should have been from the off. Proper bedding in is essential though.Rupert
From SRAM. Have installed these on several bikes now with organic pads (Utah climate) and have had exceptional results. The common sense behind these rotors is nothing more than basic. But the fact that SRAM finally did it makes me happy. I will only be buying these rotors from here on out when it comes to SRAM. Thanks for bringing these in!ERIC R
So far I've had four of these, all 200mm. Three of the four have had uneven thickness, so the brakes pulse heavily (to the point where the tire will start to lose traction once per revolution under moderate braking). The rotor that doesn't have this issue feels great; it has a small amount more bite (barely perceptible) than a Centerline rotor, and doesn't overheat as quickly. Once SRAM fixes their quality control issues, I have no doubt that these will be great rotors.Dane
7. Shimano Xtr Rt-Mt900 Center-Lock Disc Rotor
Product Details:
Xtr rt-mt900 ice tech rotors providing consistent braking performance through energy control, using revolutionary stainless steel / alloy 3-layer sandwich construction that manages heat while riding. the clad steel / alloy / steel rotor construction allows heat generated from braking to radiate quickly through the aluminium core achieving surface temperature drops of around 50 deg c. when used with ice tech pads surface temperatures can drop from around 400 to 300 deg c, this provides great improvements in performance all round. freeza rotors allow the alloy core to extend out from the braking surface as a fin to providing added cooling ice tech rotors achieve long pad life, less noise and less fade due to improved heat dispersion. rotors are durable lightweight and rigid, using the proven shimano center lock system giving increased strength and security with an easy set-up.
Specifications:
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 7.56 x 6.42 x 1.22 inches |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 8.27 x 8.27 x 1.18 inches |
| Model Year | 2018 |
| Included Components | Bike Parts |
Reviews:
I bought a new bike with Ultegra Di2 and just didn’t like how the stock rotors looked so I upgraded to these and couldn’t be happier with them. Performance wise I couldn’t notice much of a difference in braking power between the two but they just complete the look of the bike, and if these rotors are good enough for mountain bikes they’re pretty much overkill for my road bike. I’ve logged about 150 miles so far and the stopping power really is impressive especially after upgrading from a bike with rim brakes, I weigh around 220lbs and have no trouble stopping with 160/140mm sizes. I’ve heard a bit of pad rub after a couple of hard stops at the end of descents but it goes away after a few seconds.Steven
8. Magura Mdr-C Ebike Disc Brake Rotor | 203mm
Product Details:
The gentle pedalling support offered by e-bikes brings a smile to riders faces but it also increases the weight of the bikes. it's a lot more enjoyable riding effortlessly uphill – going downhill however, the increased mass and higher speeds pose extra challenges for riders and components. the new mdr-c rotor is the all-rounder in the magura e-bike optimized portfolio – for city, trail and e-bike. an additional rigid element above the 6-hole mounting reduces vibration during braking, resulting in less noise. heat resistance and stability have also been enhanced. precision manufactured from light weight (162g) 180mm x 2mm thick laser cut steel, this genuine replacement part also includes 6x mounting bolts.
Specifications:
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 9.41 x 8.31 x 0.43 inches |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 9.4 x 8.25 x 0.55 inches |
| Suggested Users | mens |
| Model Year | 2021 |
| Sport Type | Cycling |
Reviews:
Amazing product well worth the moneythom-4097
9. Sram Centerline Xr Rotor 6-Bolt 160mm
Product Details:
Designed specifically for road riding, the sram centerline xr (clx-r) rotor is the perfect complement to a new sram etap axs drivetrain. the rotor has a streamlined form optimized for road use, and the centerline track offers quiet brake operation. the rounded edges make for easier wheel installs and are uci-compliant, and the color is designed to match etap axs components. 6-bolt rotor.
Specifications:
| Diameter | 160mm |
Reviews:
Working very well with Shimano BR-RS785 with metal and resin break pads too.
10. Sram Hs2 6-Bolt Disc Rotor – 220mm
Product Details:
The sram hs2 brake discs are mtb-specific disc brakes designed to improve braking performance. the discs have a larger surface area, which means they dissipate heat better and give a higher braking force. these brake discs are also slightly thicker than usual (2 mm vs. 1.85 mm with normal discs). this makes them extremely suitable for emtbs, as well as enduro and downhill mountain bikes. finally, the noise during braking has been drastically reduced, so that you are less likely to suffer from squeaking brakes. renewed pattern and coating the new pattern of the sram hs2 brake disc provides more grip in combination with the sram brake pads. the central part is treated with a heat-dissipating coating. this makes the hs2 a powerful, quiet brake disc with best-in-class heat management.
Reviews:
The new disc does have a slightly noticeable firmer feel at the lever, with more bite, over the old centreline discs, and still retains great modulation (so not grabby or on/off). An improvement for sure over centreline discs! I also upped from 180-200 and once bedded in (essential process) I was able to endo even while sat down without moving my weight, whereas with centreline (180) I had to throw weight forward. So definitely much more power, and better feel – more inital bit/firmness but great modulation. How Guide brakes should have been from the off. Proper bedding in is essential though.Rupert
From SRAM. Have installed these on several bikes now with organic pads (Utah climate) and have had exceptional results. The common sense behind these rotors is nothing more than basic. But the fact that SRAM finally did it makes me happy. I will only be buying these rotors from here on out when it comes to SRAM. Thanks for bringing these in!ERIC R
So far I've had four of these, all 200mm. Three of the four have had uneven thickness, so the brakes pulse heavily (to the point where the tire will start to lose traction once per revolution under moderate braking). The rotor that doesn't have this issue feels great; it has a small amount more bite (barely perceptible) than a Centerline rotor, and doesn't overheat as quickly. Once SRAM fixes their quality control issues, I have no doubt that these will be great rotors.Dane
11. Magura Mdr-P Disc Rotor 6-Bolt- 180mm
Product Details:
The magura mdr-p disc brake rotor is a performance-oriented brake disc with low weight, high heat resistance and extremely high stability. all this makes it an excellent choice for electric bikes, trail bikes, downhill mountain bikes and more. extreme stability the braking surface of the magura mdr-p brake disc is placed on a spider. the outer and inner rings are interlocked using the patented dovetail interlink technology. in practice, this means that this brake rotor has extremely little play and is, therefore, extra stiff. as a result, it produces high braking power and makes little noise during braking. this technology also provides reinforcement when the brake disc expands due to heat, reducing the loss of braking power during long descents. not suitable for centerlock adapters to guarantee this rotor's high braking power, magura recommends not to use the magura mdr-p brake disc with a centerlock adapter. you can therefore only use this brake disc on wheels with a 6-bolt mounting system.
Reviews:
Replaced my sram centerline 220mm rotors and the magura are just betterchrisoadamson
The only reason I switched the old rotor was because the old 203 mm stock rotor was vibrating and making noises while riding, mostly on windy days, now not only the noises are gone but the brake is much better, dont forget to buy the QM45 quick mount adapter for the front brake.chicho7772010
12. Hope Floating Road Disc Brake Rotor – 160mm 6-Bolt Blue
Product Details:
This rotor outperforms most other brands options on the market today.the hope road floating disc is a precision laser cut rotor, machined from a custom sheet of steel, heat-treated, then riveted to an aluminium carrier to produce a high-end, high-performance, durable disc rotor that dissipates braking heat superbly.this rotor is an exceptional option for performance-oriented road riders who are looking to get more from their braking power and seek faster rotor cool down, which is likely slowing their performance. a rotor that features faster cooldown ensures that your brakes perform at an optimum level for much longer.
Reviews:
Purchased 2 x 203mm rotors for my 2018 SC Hightower LT and they plain don't fit. The rear rotor rubs the frame where the caliper mounts due to the center of the rotor being too thick. Front rotor rubs the fork on the caliper post mounts as well. I put a 2mm spacer between the hub and frame front and rear and it worked, but my local bike shop said it'll void the warranty from Santa Cruz if I leave as is because it stretched the frame and fork to a 150mm spacing and creates a higher stress on the frame and fork (makes sense). To boot, these rotors are squeal city when I did put them on, after scuffing rotors, replacing pads, and bedding in properly… Super bummed! Guess I'll order the thinner Centerline's in the larger diameter and use these Hopes as wall ornaments….as they sure are pretty!Alex
Hands down the best bicycle brake rotors I have ever laid eyes on and used. these rotors have trickle down design concepts from the motorcycle world, and I love exotic sport bikes! The brake pad relief patterns I see on some bicycle rotors these days looks totally ridiculous to me, and I often wonder how functional the design actually is. In car and motorcycle world there are really only two kinds of cuts in rotors that have a good function, long diagonal slots, or lots of smaller round holes. This brought me to two different rotors to choose from, the SRAM HS2 or the Hope floating rotors. SRAM HS2 2mm thick rotors in the 200mm variety weigh 204-206 grams each (actual weight on a scale)!!! From what I could gather online the 200mm hope rotors weighed 176g and still have a 2mm brake surface thickness. (Edit, these rotors measure 1.8mm thick, there was a lot of confusion on the internet and Hope’s web site was not clear either)
My only concern with the Hope rotors is that they were hard to get a hold of, and I wasn't sure if the aluminum rivets would clear my SRAM G2-R calipers. It turns out that they do! But it's cutting it super close. I found mine on E-bay from a reputable source. Once installed, the rivets come only fractions of a MM from the part of the caliper that mounts to the frame. This makes it to where you have about a 0.5mm range to adjust the caliper back and forth for centering without any rubbing. I managed to get the calipers centered perfectly with the rotors though and everything was running smooth without any rubbing anywhere.
Braking performance and feel was immediately improved 10 fold over the SRAM centerline rotors that came on my bike. I know a lot of people actually love the SRAM centerline rotors, but my particular specimens felt like absolute garbage. I actually love the SRAM Power pads on the Hope rotors and I think they are a good match. Modulation, power, noise, and feel were all immediately improved and they haven't even been fully broken in yet, which means they will only get better. My old rotors felt like trash from day 1, and never really got much better. I think they were defective, as I found rough edges around the outside edge of the braking surface.
The cherry on top of all this, is that my particular rotors weighed 5 grams less each than what they were listed to weigh. Also the SRAM centerline rotors I pulled off my bike weighed 190g each on the scale, which were supposed to weigh 176g, same as the Hopes. So essentially I shaved off a total of 38 grams of rotational and un-sprung weight. Which theoretically translates to ever so slight improvements to steering, acceleration, deceleration, and suspension performance. Which all adds up to a pretty big deal! Especially considering that the HS2 rotors would have weighed 204-206g, I potentially saved 70 grams of rotational and un-sprung weight over the HS2's. That's a 1/4 of a pound!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! at the wheels. Add the weight savings of upgrading to carbon wheels, and from an NX cassette to an X01 cassette, and I'm potentially shaving 1.5 pounds off the wheels alone on a bike that only weighed 32lb's to begin with. This alone can transform the way a bike feels and rides. So in my eyes these rotors are a win win, BUY THEM IF THEY WILL FITTrevor Harrell
I have these paired with old XT , 2 pot calipers from 2013 . Upsized from 180 and 160 to 203 front and rear . Noticed more power instantly but haven’t really put them to a full ride yet . They mounted up great straight away. Had a slight rub on the front at first on the Shimano 203 adapter pieces. I hit it where rubbing with a file then sand paper quickly and it was good to go . These things are beautiful and add bling appeal for sure .Troy
13. Hope Floating Road Disc Brake Rotor – 160mm 6-Bolt Red
Product Details:
This rotor outperforms most other brands options on the market today.the hope road floating disc is a precision laser cut rotor, machined from a custom sheet of steel, heat-treated, then riveted to an aluminium carrier to produce a high-end, high-performance, durable disc rotor that dissipates braking heat superbly.this rotor is an exceptional option for performance-oriented road riders who are looking to get more from their braking power and seek faster rotor cool down, which is likely slowing their performance. a rotor that features faster cooldown ensures that your brakes perform at an optimum level for much longer.
Specifications:
| Rotor Size | 160 mm |
| Hub Type | 6-Bolt |
| Rotor Size (mm) | 160 |
| Rotor Type | Two Piece |
| Pad Compatibility | All Pad Compounds |
Reviews:
Purchased 2 x 203mm rotors for my 2018 SC Hightower LT and they plain don't fit. The rear rotor rubs the frame where the caliper mounts due to the center of the rotor being too thick. Front rotor rubs the fork on the caliper post mounts as well. I put a 2mm spacer between the hub and frame front and rear and it worked, but my local bike shop said it'll void the warranty from Santa Cruz if I leave as is because it stretched the frame and fork to a 150mm spacing and creates a higher stress on the frame and fork (makes sense). To boot, these rotors are squeal city when I did put them on, after scuffing rotors, replacing pads, and bedding in properly… Super bummed! Guess I'll order the thinner Centerline's in the larger diameter and use these Hopes as wall ornaments….as they sure are pretty!Alex
Hands down the best bicycle brake rotors I have ever laid eyes on and used. these rotors have trickle down design concepts from the motorcycle world, and I love exotic sport bikes! The brake pad relief patterns I see on some bicycle rotors these days looks totally ridiculous to me, and I often wonder how functional the design actually is. In car and motorcycle world there are really only two kinds of cuts in rotors that have a good function, long diagonal slots, or lots of smaller round holes. This brought me to two different rotors to choose from, the SRAM HS2 or the Hope floating rotors. SRAM HS2 2mm thick rotors in the 200mm variety weigh 204-206 grams each (actual weight on a scale)!!! From what I could gather online the 200mm hope rotors weighed 176g and still have a 2mm brake surface thickness. (Edit, these rotors measure 1.8mm thick, there was a lot of confusion on the internet and Hope’s web site was not clear either)
My only concern with the Hope rotors is that they were hard to get a hold of, and I wasn't sure if the aluminum rivets would clear my SRAM G2-R calipers. It turns out that they do! But it's cutting it super close. I found mine on E-bay from a reputable source. Once installed, the rivets come only fractions of a MM from the part of the caliper that mounts to the frame. This makes it to where you have about a 0.5mm range to adjust the caliper back and forth for centering without any rubbing. I managed to get the calipers centered perfectly with the rotors though and everything was running smooth without any rubbing anywhere.
Braking performance and feel was immediately improved 10 fold over the SRAM centerline rotors that came on my bike. I know a lot of people actually love the SRAM centerline rotors, but my particular specimens felt like absolute garbage. I actually love the SRAM Power pads on the Hope rotors and I think they are a good match. Modulation, power, noise, and feel were all immediately improved and they haven't even been fully broken in yet, which means they will only get better. My old rotors felt like trash from day 1, and never really got much better. I think they were defective, as I found rough edges around the outside edge of the braking surface.
The cherry on top of all this, is that my particular rotors weighed 5 grams less each than what they were listed to weigh. Also the SRAM centerline rotors I pulled off my bike weighed 190g each on the scale, which were supposed to weigh 176g, same as the Hopes. So essentially I shaved off a total of 38 grams of rotational and un-sprung weight. Which theoretically translates to ever so slight improvements to steering, acceleration, deceleration, and suspension performance. Which all adds up to a pretty big deal! Especially considering that the HS2 rotors would have weighed 204-206g, I potentially saved 70 grams of rotational and un-sprung weight over the HS2's. That's a 1/4 of a pound!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! at the wheels. Add the weight savings of upgrading to carbon wheels, and from an NX cassette to an X01 cassette, and I'm potentially shaving 1.5 pounds off the wheels alone on a bike that only weighed 32lb's to begin with. This alone can transform the way a bike feels and rides. So in my eyes these rotors are a win win, BUY THEM IF THEY WILL FITTrevor Harrell
I have these paired with old XT , 2 pot calipers from 2013 . Upsized from 180 and 160 to 203 front and rear . Noticed more power instantly but haven’t really put them to a full ride yet . They mounted up great straight away. Had a slight rub on the front at first on the Shimano 203 adapter pieces. I hit it where rubbing with a file then sand paper quickly and it was good to go . These things are beautiful and add bling appeal for sure .Troy
14. Avid G2 Clean Sweep Bicycle Disc Brake Rotor, 180mm
Product Details:
Specifications:
| Select | 180mm (IS) 6-bolt |
Reviews:
If you run BB7's you are stuck with these, but you can get Shimano SLX quality for about half the price. I don't like to mix brands and models though because pads and rotor width should be equal. They work great with my BB7's though. Just wish they didn't cost $30 each. Also, since when did they stop selling the BB7's with the rotor? Now they are sold separately – what gives?Brother Jev
15. Sram Centerline Mountain Bicycle Disc Brake Rotor, 200 Mm
Product Details:
With the introduction of sram's new guide brakes comes an updated rotor design to complete the system. it's called the centerline rotor and it relies on a new profile to keep the braking track straight and to better control cooling. the name centerline is derived from a series of elongated vents positioned directly in the braking track. the new design also incorporates a 12-spoke design, which is bumped up from the six-spokes of sram's existing models. this new profile was designed to control the rotor's warping and other lateral distortion that can occur when heated, in addition to aiding in overall cooling. the result is minimal vibration through a consistent center of friction, thus ensuring braking is predictable, quiet, and smooth. it is available in 140, 160, 180, and 200 mm diameters and the standard six-bolt mounting configuration.
Specifications:
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 8.66 x 8.58 x 0.31 inches |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 17.91 x 13.39 x 10.43 inches |
| Model Year | 2014 |
| Sport Type | cycling |
Reviews:
The new disc does have a slightly noticeable firmer feel at the lever, with more bite, over the old centreline discs, and still retains great modulation (so not grabby or on/off). An improvement for sure over centreline discs! I also upped from 180-200 and once bedded in (essential process) I was able to endo even while sat down without moving my weight, whereas with centreline (180) I had to throw weight forward. So definitely much more power, and better feel – more inital bit/firmness but great modulation. How Guide brakes should have been from the off. Proper bedding in is essential though.Rupert
From SRAM. Have installed these on several bikes now with organic pads (Utah climate) and have had exceptional results. The common sense behind these rotors is nothing more than basic. But the fact that SRAM finally did it makes me happy. I will only be buying these rotors from here on out when it comes to SRAM. Thanks for bringing these in!ERIC R
So far I've had four of these, all 200mm. Three of the four have had uneven thickness, so the brakes pulse heavily (to the point where the tire will start to lose traction once per revolution under moderate braking). The rotor that doesn't have this issue feels great; it has a small amount more bite (barely perceptible) than a Centerline rotor, and doesn't overheat as quickly. Once SRAM fixes their quality control issues, I have no doubt that these will be great rotors.Dane
16. Sram Centerline 2 Piece Disc Brake Rotor 160mm
Product Details:
Sram has updated their centerline x rotor to be the better, lighter choice when using sram disc brakes as your stoppers. the centerline x mixes metals to get to where they want to be. the brake track is steel, while the carrier is aluminum alloy. this reduces all-important rotating weight, while still keeping performance high. the cutouts in the brake track prevent grit and grime from reducing brake performance, and the air also does a bit in terms of limiting heat build-up. the aluminum center also helps a bit with controlling heat. the rotor’s edges are rounded, a concession to uci concerns for riding safety. in terms of braking performance, it has no effect whatsoever. in terms of wheel changes, it should make it slightly easier. the sram centerline x rotor comes in six-bolt and centerlock mounting styles. the 140mm rotor weighs 86g, the 160mm rotor 102g, the 180mm rotor 125g.
Specifications:
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 6.89 x 6.81 x 1.06 inches |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 8 x 8 x 1 inches |
| Model Year | 2017 |
| Included Components | Rotor |
| Sport Type | Cycling |
Reviews:
I've had these rotors on a couple of bikes, the first one was fine, but my most recent bike that came with these installed felt like garbage when braking. Right out of the box it felt like there was sand stuck in the rotors. Upon closer inspection I noticed little pot marks along the very edge of the braking surface. This made me question SRAM's quality control with making brake rotors so I opted to replace these with Hope floating rotors.Trevor
Purchased 2 of these for a new bike build, one was warped right out of the packaging and needed to be straightened in order to get my brake caliper centered, but due to the riveted design of the 2 pieces, there must not be adequate heat transfer and the rotors will warp throughout riding sessions. Sometimes the audible rub lasts until the rotor cools off a little, but it commonly requires straightening after a riding session. I can’t recommend these and wish I would have went with a one-piece design rotor.Spanders
17. Sram Centerline 160mm Rounded Rotor
Product Details:
The centreline rotor represents all that sram and avid have learned through many years of designing braking systems. these rotors are optimised to create a consistent feel. the braking surface area stays consistent regardless of position on the rotor. this design minimised the chance of vibration. the large cut outs ensure good ventilation and aid in keeping the rotor cool. the stainless steel material used is extremely robust. these will suit all avid or sram brakes – plus most other brands. weight for a 160g rotor is 112g. the "square edges" or "rounded edges" refers to the outer edges of the rotor. the newer version has the edges rounded to make them easier to line up during wheel changes and less likely to cut in crashes.
Specifications:
| Diameter | 160mm |
Reviews:
The new disc does have a slightly noticeable firmer feel at the lever, with more bite, over the old centreline discs, and still retains great modulation (so not grabby or on/off). An improvement for sure over centreline discs! I also upped from 180-200 and once bedded in (essential process) I was able to endo even while sat down without moving my weight, whereas with centreline (180) I had to throw weight forward. So definitely much more power, and better feel – more inital bit/firmness but great modulation. How Guide brakes should have been from the off. Proper bedding in is essential though.Rupert
From SRAM. Have installed these on several bikes now with organic pads (Utah climate) and have had exceptional results. The common sense behind these rotors is nothing more than basic. But the fact that SRAM finally did it makes me happy. I will only be buying these rotors from here on out when it comes to SRAM. Thanks for bringing these in!ERIC R
So far I've had four of these, all 200mm. Three of the four have had uneven thickness, so the brakes pulse heavily (to the point where the tire will start to lose traction once per revolution under moderate braking). The rotor that doesn't have this issue feels great; it has a small amount more bite (barely perceptible) than a Centerline rotor, and doesn't overheat as quickly. Once SRAM fixes their quality control issues, I have no doubt that these will be great rotors.Dane
18. Sram Centerline 140mm Rounded Rotor
Product Details:
The centreline rotor represents all that sram and avid have learned through many years of designing braking systems. these rotors are optimised to create a consistent feel. the braking surface area stays consistent regardless of position on the rotor. this design minimised the chance of vibration. the large cut outs ensure good ventilation and aid in keeping the rotor cool. the stainless steel material used is extremely robust. these will suit all avid or sram brakes – plus most other brands. weight for a 160g rotor is 112g. the "square edges" or "rounded edges" refers to the outer edges of the rotor. the newer version has the edges rounded to make them easier to line up during wheel changes and less likely to cut in crashes.
Specifications:
| Diameter | 140mm |
Reviews:
The new disc does have a slightly noticeable firmer feel at the lever, with more bite, over the old centreline discs, and still retains great modulation (so not grabby or on/off). An improvement for sure over centreline discs! I also upped from 180-200 and once bedded in (essential process) I was able to endo even while sat down without moving my weight, whereas with centreline (180) I had to throw weight forward. So definitely much more power, and better feel – more inital bit/firmness but great modulation. How Guide brakes should have been from the off. Proper bedding in is essential though.Rupert
From SRAM. Have installed these on several bikes now with organic pads (Utah climate) and have had exceptional results. The common sense behind these rotors is nothing more than basic. But the fact that SRAM finally did it makes me happy. I will only be buying these rotors from here on out when it comes to SRAM. Thanks for bringing these in!ERIC R
So far I've had four of these, all 200mm. Three of the four have had uneven thickness, so the brakes pulse heavily (to the point where the tire will start to lose traction once per revolution under moderate braking). The rotor that doesn't have this issue feels great; it has a small amount more bite (barely perceptible) than a Centerline rotor, and doesn't overheat as quickly. Once SRAM fixes their quality control issues, I have no doubt that these will be great rotors.Dane
19. Sram Centerline 200mm Rounded Rotor
Product Details:
The centreline rotor represents all that sram and avid have learned through many years of designing braking systems. these rotors are optimised to create a consistent feel. the braking surface area stays consistent regardless of position on the rotor. this design minimised the chance of vibration. the large cut outs ensure good ventilation and aid in keeping the rotor cool. the stainless steel material used is extremely robust. these will suit all avid or sram brakes – plus most other brands. weight for a 160g rotor is 112g. the "square edges" or "rounded edges" refers to the outer edges of the rotor. the newer version has the edges rounded to make them easier to line up during wheel changes and less likely to cut in crashes.
Specifications:
| Size | 200mm |
Reviews:
The new disc does have a slightly noticeable firmer feel at the lever, with more bite, over the old centreline discs, and still retains great modulation (so not grabby or on/off). An improvement for sure over centreline discs! I also upped from 180-200 and once bedded in (essential process) I was able to endo even while sat down without moving my weight, whereas with centreline (180) I had to throw weight forward. So definitely much more power, and better feel – more inital bit/firmness but great modulation. How Guide brakes should have been from the off. Proper bedding in is essential though.Rupert
From SRAM. Have installed these on several bikes now with organic pads (Utah climate) and have had exceptional results. The common sense behind these rotors is nothing more than basic. But the fact that SRAM finally did it makes me happy. I will only be buying these rotors from here on out when it comes to SRAM. Thanks for bringing these in!ERIC R
So far I've had four of these, all 200mm. Three of the four have had uneven thickness, so the brakes pulse heavily (to the point where the tire will start to lose traction once per revolution under moderate braking). The rotor that doesn't have this issue feels great; it has a small amount more bite (barely perceptible) than a Centerline rotor, and doesn't overheat as quickly. Once SRAM fixes their quality control issues, I have no doubt that these will be great rotors.Dane
20. Hope Rx Disc Rotor – 160mm Center-Lock Black
Product Details:
The floating brake rotor idea combines the robustness and temperature management of steel pad-contact surface, with the lightness of aluminium. with hope’s road cl design, a steel braking surface is riveted to an aluminium central carrier. hope has engineered the steel outer part of this road cl road brake rotor with a round edge. a series of ventilation holes allow for heat dissipation, if you require powerful braking inputs, on a long descent. the road cl-series rotor also features an aluminium carrier, with a centre-lock spline fitment in the middle. this aluminium part of the hope road cl reduces rotation mass, which is part of the appeal for a floating brake rotor design. precision is a crucial aspect of quality disc brake manufacturing. if the manufacturing tolerances are slightly misaligned, you can have annoying brake rub, which increases mechanical drag. to avoid this, hope uses a sophisticated laser-cutting process for its brake rotors, to achieve the best possible specification control in final production. the hope road cl uses a centre-lock mounting interface, reducing the need for traditional bolts, which would occasionally need to be checked for correct fastening.
