Brakes are often not the first thing we check on a bike. After all, what damage could a small bike really do? But if you ask me, brakes are one of the most important parts. The type of brake decides how and when your bike stops; that timing could be the difference between a close call or a crash, not for others, but for you.

Now, if you’re buying an ebike without considering the type of brakes, or maybe just confused about which type suits your ride, this might be the best starting point.

In this blog, I’ll explain the common braking systems used on Ebikes and then compare them side by side, so you can see what each one offers and which fits your use case better.

What is a Mechanical Brake on an Ebike? How does it work?

A mechanical brake uses a steel cable (like in regular bicycles) to pull the brake caliper and press the brake pads against the wheel disc (rotor). When you squeeze the brake lever, it pulls the cable, and that force clamps the pads onto the disc, creating friction and slowing the bike down.

This mechanical setup is simple and doesn’t use any fluid, only four major components: cable, lever, caliper, and brake pads.

Pros of Mechanical Brakes

● Cheaper compared to hydraulic brakes

● A simple cable system that can be repaired easily.

● Maintenance is simple, too.

Cons of Mechanical Brakes

● Not very responsive.

● More hand pressure is needed to apply the brakes.

What is a Hydraulic Brake on an EBike? How does it work?

A hydraulic brake uses fluid instead of a cable. When you press the brake lever, it pushes brake fluid through a sealed line, which moves the pistons in the brake caliper. That force presses the brake pads onto the rotor to stop the bike.

The hydraulic system gives you more power with less effort. And since the fluid doesn’t compress, the response is faster and smoother.

Pros of Hydraulic Brakes

● Requires less effort to stop quickly.

● Better feel and control, even at high speeds.

● Brake pads stay aligned automatically as they wear.

● Less affected by dirt, water, or weather.

Cons of Hydraulic Brakes

● More costs upfront.

● Repair is not DIY friendly.

Hydraulic Brake vs Mechanical Brakes: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Hydraulic and mechanical disc brakes each have distinct trade-offs in power, feel, and upkeep. In general, hydraulic systems deliver stronger and more consistent braking by using pressurized fluid, whereas mechanical brakes rely on a simple steel cable to pull the pads.

We’ll break down the key differences below to provide more clarity.

	Mechanical Brakes	Hydraulic Brakes
Braking Power	Moderate	Strong
Brake Feel	Can feel stiff or jerky	Smooth and responsive
Maintenance	DIY-friendly, needs frequent tuning	Low maintenance but harder to repair
Wet Performance	Affected by dirt and water	Performs consistently in all conditions
Cost	Lower upfront	Higher upfront cost
Best For	Casual riders, commuters, and budget-conscious	Heavy riders and off-roaders

Stopping Power

Hydraulic brakes are known for their superior stopping power. The fluid-based system provides more efficient force transmission, meaning you get more braking power with less effort.

In contrast, mechanical disc brakes usually require more lever force and careful modulation to achieve the same effect. Cables can stretch or fray over time, so stopping power may degrade unless regularly adjusted.

Ride Feel

Since the fluid system applies equal pressure to both pads, a light lever pull produces a proportional braking response, allowing fine control. Some of the expert reviewers quoted that hydraulics “offer superior modulation” and “finer control from light to full braking” compared to the more binary feel of a cable brake.

Many riders describe hydraulic levers as easy on the hands. Whereas, mechanical brakes tend to feel more “on/off” or grabby.

Wet Weather Conditions

Both brake types outperform old-rim brakes in rain or mud, but hydraulics have the edge in tough conditions. The sealed fluid system of hydraulic brakes resists contamination, making hydraulic brakes very reliable in wet and muddy conditions.

On the other hand, mechanical brake cables and housings can wick in water and debris, causing friction that reduces braking efficiency in bad weather.

Ease of Maintenance

Mechanical brakes are easier and cheaper to maintain, but they do need more frequent attention. Adjusting a cable brake is simple: you tighten or replace the steel cable and pads using common tools. Most riders can do this at home with Allen wrenches, and replacement parts are inexpensive and widely available.

On the other end, hydraulic brakes require only occasional service (often only every 6–12 months) since the sealed system holds its tune longer. However, when they do need work, it requires special skills and tools, so it’s usually done by a shop.

Costs Difference

Mechanical brake systems are much cheaper upfront. As per an estimate, ebikes with mechanical brakes are about 15 to 30% cheaper than their counterparts with hydraulic options. Besides the upfront costs, the repairs for hydraulics are costly too. But since these are not frequent, it doesn’t matter much to a rider.

Which One Should You Choose: Mechanical or Hydraulic Ebikes

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice depends on your riding style, frequency, and budget.

You can go for an Ebike with mechanical brakes if you:

● Mostly commute in the city at moderate speeds

● Ride short distances or only a few times a week

● Use your Ebike casually: weekend rides, errands, or flat routes

● Prefer something low-cost and easy to maintain

Choose an Ebike with hydraulic brakes if you:

● Ride a cargo or heavy-duty Ebike

● Often go off-roading or tackle steep terrain

● Are a heavy rider and need stronger stopping power

● Ride long hours or regularly on mixed trails and hills

A Look at PVY Mechanical and Hydraulic Ebikes

At PVY, we offer both mechanical and hydraulic brake models to match different riding needs and budgets.

If you prefer simple, low-maintenance rides, check out our mechanical brake lineup:

	Price	Power	Battery	Range	Tire Size
PVY Z20 Pro	€799	500W	36V/10.4 Ah	80 km	20*2.3 inch
PVY Z20 Pro Evo	€899	250W	36V/14.5 Ah	120 km	20*2.125 inch
PVY Turbo	€999	750W	36V/13 Ah	100 km	20*4inch

If you’re after more power, better control, and smoother braking, consider our hydraulic brake models:

	Price	Power	Battery	Range	Tire Size
PVY Libon	€1,299	250W, 500W	36V/20.4 Ah	260 km	20*2.6 inch
PVY Z20 Max	€999	750W	36V/25.6 Ah	200km	20*2.3 inch
PVY Z20 Plus	€1,299	1000W	48V/16.5 Ah	120 km	20*4inch
PVY LS20	€1,199	750W	48V/13 Ah	100 km	20*4inch

Whether you're a weekend rider or an everyday commuter, there’s a PVY Ebike to match your brake preference. Explore the full collection of ebikes and ride your way.