If you’re wondering about the difference between a traditional hand brake and a coaster brake on a bike, let me explain it in simple terms. A coaster brake works by pedaling backward to stop, making it an excellent option, especially for a child learning to ride. From my experience teaching my son and daughter to ride, I found that a coaster brake is often the better choice because it’s easy to use and doesn’t rely on hand strength, unlike traditional brakes. This article provides a breakdown of what is coaster brake bike, how it works and why many parents decide on this best braking system for their little riders.
What is coaster brake bike?
A coaster brake is a unique braking system found on many kid’s and cruiser bikes, offering a simple and effective way to stop. It works by pedaling backward instead of using a hand-activated brake. When the rider backpedals, the brake is activated, and the harder they pedal, the stronger the braking force becomes. This system is often installed in the rear wheel hub of single-gear bikes, although there are some exceptions. Unlike traditional brakes, coaster brakes can also enable the bike to move in reverse when stationary, making them especially popular for teaching children how to control a bike.
In my experience, many adults and children find coaster breaks more intuitive because the action of going backward is the natural opposite of going forward. With fewer moving parts, they tend to be inexpensive and work reliably, even in wet weather. However, they can feel awkward during transitions between acceleration and braking, especially for new riders. Still, their simplicity and reliability make them a favored choice for specific bike designs.
How coaster brakes work
A coaster brake works by pressing the brake shoe against the inner edge of the wheel hub, which creates friction between the moving and fixed parts. This mechanism stops the wheel from rotating, effectively forcing the bike to stop. The design includes a clutch, brake pads, and other components that work together in a seemingly complicated yet efficient system. As someone who loves exploring bike mechanics, I find it fascinating how this system balances simplicity and functionality. For a more technical explanation, you might check out an excellent video from RJ The Bike Guy that dives into the details of how they work.
Related: Are Retrospec Bikes Good?
Coaster brake vs hand brake
If you’re trying to decide which type of bike is ideal for your child, here’s a comparison of coaster brakes and hand brakes to help you choose the safest and most suitable option.
Coaster Brake:
- Brakes can feel more intuitive and are generally easier to use for riders of all skill levels.
- They are a more natural choice for kids, seniors, and disabled individuals who may lack the hand-eye coordination required for hand brakes.
- Braking can be sudden, which some may find dangerous, but it is effective in emergency stops.
- Performs perfectly in all weather conditions, including wet roads, without the risk of a skid during braking.
- Foot positioning may feel awkward as pedals must align between certain angles for optimal leverage.
- Bikes with coaster brakes tend to be cheaper, heavier, and have fewer parts, meaning less maintenance and longer-lasting components.
Hand Brake:
- Hand brakes might feel less intuitive, making them a bit harder to use for those not accustomed to them.
- They allow for more gradual stops, which helps prevent accidents during regular use.
- Riders must use more coordination, which could be challenging for kids, seniors, or those with disabilities.
- Hand brakes do not perform as well in wet weather, and the bike might skid while stopping.
- Pedaling is generally lighter and faster with hand brakes, and foot positioning is smoother since pedals can rotate backward freely.
- Bikes with hand brakes are often more expensive, have more parts, and require frequent maintenance, meaning they may need to be replaced sooner.
Related: Who Makes Indian Motorcycles
Did you know there are bikes that have both Coaster Brakes and Hand Brakes?
Some brands have adopted CPSC requirements by complying with the mandate and providing handbrake-equipped bikes with coaster brakes as an additional stopping mechanism. This design has many advantages, especially for kids, as it helps them get acquainted with both systems, ensuring they can safely decide to ride any future bike with confidence. The BYK range of ergonomic kids’ bikes is a great example of this approach, where safety and ease of use are successfully managed.
Why do some bikes have coaster brakes and others have hand brakes?
The CPSC set requirements in the ’70s to ensure kids’ bikes, especially smaller sizes like 12″, 14″, and 16″, included coaster brakes. Back then, handbrakes were considered too difficult for young riders to use, and coaster brakes were thought to be the safest option. However, times have changed, and while coaster brakes are still mandated for the smallest bikes, they are now seen as less efficient compared to high-quality handbrakes.
There’s a lot of gray area in how the regulation is applied, meaning some smaller bikes are available without coaster brakes, but they are rare. In the US, the standard still requires coaster brakes, unlike the European standard, which bans cheap, inefficient handbrakes that fail to perform well or stay in tune. Many experts hope the US will update its regulations to align with modern safety and performance standards.
How do you remove a coaster brake on a bike?
Since coaster brakes are incorporated into the hub of the bike, you can’t simply turn them off. To remove one, you must either replace or modify the rear hub, which can be a complex process. However, for popular models like the woom 2, Prevelo Alpha One, or Pello Romper, freewheel kits are available, making it easily possible to remove the coaster brake without significant effort. These kits are a great option for those looking to transition their bike setup.
For the more adventurous spirits, the team at Stacked BMX has devised a way to modify a coaster brake hub manually. While it’s not a DIY task for everyone and can be quite complicated, some might find it worth a shot if they are truly aching to ditch the coaster brake system. Always consider professional help for such modifications to ensure safety and functionality.
How do you install a freewheel kit?
For riders looking for a smoother riding experience without coaster brakes, some brands like woom, Prevelo, and Pello offer freewheel kits. These kits include a rear wheel with a freewheel hub that consumers can easily swap for the bike’s standard wheel. It’s a straightforward process, and many manufacturers provide step-by-step guides or videos to help. For example, Prevelo has a 4-minute video that clearly demonstrates the procedures needed to install the kit.
However, it’s essential to note that frames and components vary between models, so freewheel kits are not interchangeable across different brands. If your bike’s manufacturer does not offer a kit for your specific model, installing one may not be an option. While legally allowed under CPSC regulations, bikes must still ship with the coaster brake wheel installed, and modifying the bike later is up to the owner. Fortunately, the swapping process is quick, easy, and allows for a personalized setup that suits your riding preferences.
Related: How Much Does a BMX Bike Cost?
Are coaster brakes problematic on adult bikes?
While coaster bikes are often seen on kids’ models, they are also popular on adult neighborhood and cruiser bikes designed for casual use around town or in flat areas. For these settings, coaster brakes generally perform fine and are easy to use. However, they are not recommended for technical riding, fast speeds, or hilly terrain due to their tendency to heat up quickly. From my own experience, coaster brakes are less ideal for pulling a trailer or using a baby seat, as their inability to stop smoothly can become a deal-breaker for some riders.
When riding with extra weight, such as a child in a seat or a loaded trailer, coaster brakes cause a quick jolt instead of a controlled stop. This jolt can feel unexpected and may throw the balance of the rider, especially during sudden stops or in extreme cases, causing them to fall. While they work well at a slower pace, these limitations make them less practical for many adults who need more versatile braking options.
