Opinions differ on disc brakes. Opinions on the benefits and risks of narrow discs vary widely among amateur and professional cyclists alike. Professional cyclists have repeatedly criticised the use of disc brakes: According to Francisco Ventoso, he suffered cuts from contact with a competitor's disc brakes (read more here), in February Sky pro Owain Doull claimed that his shoe had been cut by a disc brake.
As a result, the riders' union CPA put pressure on the world cycling organisation UCI and called for a general ban on disc brakes. Several independent studies have dealt with the topic (excerpts can be found here), but the UCI has still not made a final decision. The recently presented protective devices for disc brakes could now give the matter new impetus.
The German component manufacturer Tune has produced a prototype designed to provide protection from the sharp upper edge and side surface of the disc brake. Developed for 160 mm brake discs, the guard is bolted directly to the brake calliper mount and should therefore remain compatible with many frames and forks. A quick wheel change is also possible. Whether and when the protective device will be used in UCI races is still up in the air, however, especially as professional teams are not yet involved in the test.
The photos shown are of the 3D-printed prototype of the "Disc Steath"; the final product will be made of carbon fibre. Contrary to what has been announced by bikeradar.com has not yet been finalised. Hobby riders will probably not be able to purchase the protection until 2018 at the earliest.
