Disc brakes achieve braking by clamping a disc with brake pads, providing highly responsive and reliable braking force. Their advantages are particularly evident on long downhill stretches or wet surfaces, offering riders better control and safety, and allowing for later braking. Unlike rim brakes (caliper brakes), disc brakes are unaffected by rim moisture, maintaining stable braking force even in rainy conditions. Because disc brakes use brake pads to clamp the disc, they do not rub against the rim, thus preventing rim wear and extending the wheelset's lifespan.