This is what squeezes the disc and gives us the friction necessary to slow down. Most brake hoses the manufacturers put on a bike is of a rubber or plastic variety. This can give the brakes a slightly vague or mushy feel. Steel braided hoses can be bought or made and can help brake feel substantially. The steel braided hose doesn t expand under pressure like some of the plastic or rubber hoses can.
Brake pads come in a variety of compounds.
There is a definite science in determining which type pads work for what application. This can be almost along the lines of choosing tires. If you re not satisfied with the stock pads, there are a few alternatives available. And again, just like tires, you get what you pay for. At a hare scrambles a few years ago, I was in a pinch for rear pads.