TECHNOLOGY
Our "brake-through" technology changed everything – and our commitment to innovation continues today. Notice anything about the majority of brake designs today? We do; it’s clear the original Hayes Mag disc brake set the physical design standard that is still used today. Throughout our 20-plus-year run in the mountain bike brake business, our technology has pushed the boundaries and written the rules.
PIONEERING TECHNOLOGY
In 1997, Hayes revolutionized the mountain bike industry with the introduction of the first hydraulic braking system. Since then, Hayes has remained committed to breakthrough design and performance. We are continuously testing and refining products to meet both the performance demands of riders and the need for brake reliability and serviceability – as demonstrated by these subsequent innovations: 1997:
1999:
2000:
METICULOUS RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND TESTING
We’ve got a long-standing reputation in the industry. We might be overly thorough, but we think that’s a good thing. Of course, what else would our meticulous brake engineers think? Besides, we’re riders ourselves, so safety always comes first.
R&D ANALYSES ENSURE PERFORMANCE
When the CAD work is complete, engineers begin simulation. FEA software is used to analyze the stress and heat impact to our designs. R&D employs the latest technology and software to analyze the noise and vibration characteristics of our systems. During stages of development, we turn designs into completely functional prototypes.
SIMULATING REAL WORLD CONDITIONS
Dynamometers are used to analyze our brake systems and evaluate both rotor and brake pad performance. Our dynamometers are also capable of simulating wet and muddy trail conditions and provide us with an accurate measure of pressure, force, temperature, speed and torque. And our electro-dynamic shaker simulates the bumps, rocks, roots and drops on a trail.
TESTING AND MORE TESTING
Each brake system completes countless lifecycle testing to ensure reliability. These tests use the latest in PLC technology and sensors to control, monitor and record system performance. On any given test, we may monitor brake pressure, clamp force or input force. We also complete a large amount of environmental cycle testing in three large, PLC-controlled environmental chambers with temperature ranges from -40°F to 350°F.
TAKING IT OUTSIDE
Beyond the confines of the R&D lab, Hayes has a fleet of bikes for field testing, as well as portable data acquisition units and sensors to track real life conditions. We also have pro racers and some of the best riders from around the world – from South America to Europe and British Columbia – to test-ride our products and provide feedback.