Last Updated: May 5, 2026 The four main bike brake types are: rim brakes (caliper, V-brake, cantilever) that pinch pads against the wheel rim; disc brakes (mechanical or hydraulic) that pinch pads against a rotor on the hub; coaster brakes (rear-only, on kids’ bikes — pedal backwards to stop); and drum brakes (rare, mostly on … Continue reading All Types Of Bike Brakes Explained