Brake reviews - Page 2 - Smart Car of America Forums : Smart Car Forum

SmartBob · 02-16-2008, 04:41 AM

A side note: for any freeway driving...here in Jersey (prolly everywhere) nobody drives a safe distance away from the car in front and if you try, someone will jump in that spot in their desire to be first. This being said if you stop quick somebody will rear end you anyway. One more reason to practice defensive driving.

Anyone looked into getting discs in the back?

Old smart · 02-16-2008, 06:27 AM

I have to think that the smart's braking distance was determined with the standard setup of ABS-controlled 155/60 fronts, where most of the braking effort produced. I'm not sure that rear discs would be much help. I likely will eventually put 175/55s and 5.5Js on my front end (same as the rears), which may produce more braking traction before the ABS takes over.

Happily I find that the OEM Conti 175/55s will be a little stickier than the OEM Conti 155/60s (300AA vs. 400AA)

Karl Roth · 02-16-2008, 08:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Old smart

I have to think that the smart's braking distance was determined with the standard setup of ABS-controlled 155/60 fronts, where most of the braking effort produced. I'm not sure that rear discs would be much help. I likely will eventually put 175/55s and 5.5Js on my front end (same as the rears), which may produce more braking traction before the ABS takes over.

ABS translated from German anti blocking system, it releases the wheel that locks so you retain steering control. It can do this multiple times in one second it does not repeal the laws of physics as many seem to believe.
Drums can't pulse this fast. Also in the package is EBFD or electronic brake force distributing that gives the wheel with traction more welly. Most of us don't push the pedal hard enough in a full effort stop there is somthing to help us there as well. What I tell my spouse, Just stand on them.