Was Bajaj remiss in not having a disc brake option on the Discover 125 ST?
The Discover 125 ST was launched with drum brakes front and rear as was standard for its segment at the time. But some riders and reviewers complained that Bajaj did not offer a front disc brake option, and considering the bike's 'sports tourer' positioning. This resulted in debates about the small displacement motorcycle bike not having disc brakes, with some questioning whether disc brakes on the bike would have presented Discover 125 STs a real choice in terms of appeal and safety. While some argue that drum brakes are good enough for a 125cc bike and that they keep costs down, others maintain that any bike that market itself as sporty should have a front disc brake as standard. It also discusses whether it would have helped the Discover 125 ST compete better in the market in which it was launched, by adding a disc brake option. Was the lack of a disc brake option a deal breaker for riders, or is it not really necessary on a bike of this class?
Bajaj dropped the ball by not offering a disc brake, absolutely. Good brakes are important for a bike that’s marketed as somewhat sporty. When I decided that I had passed on the Discover 125 ST because it did not have a front disc, I went with a competitor. Safety first!
I've had years of riding my drum brake Discover 125 ST without any problems. The drums are more than adequate in city traffic. Adding a disc would have just added unnecessary cost and complexity. Not everyone requires race spec brakes on their commuter.
But it's not just about stopping power, a front disc brake gives better feel and modulation. That extra control is important on a bike that wants you to ride a bit more enthusiastically. At the very least, Bajaj should've given it as an option.
Most Discover 125 ST buyers are just after a reliable, efficient commuter. For that purpose the drum brakes are fine and helps keep the price down. If you're looking for sportier performance you'd be in a different class of bike anyway.
The absence of a disc brake option did more to hurt the Discover 125 ST’s image than its performance. The bike didn’t feel as premium as some rivals, who started offering discs. Having the option would have been a smart marketing move even if most buyers stuck with drums.
I wish my Discover had a front disc because I've ridden in the rain. When it's wet, drum brakes just don't inspire confidence. It's not about going fast, it's about being able to stop consistently in all conditions.
Actually, the drum brakes on the Discover 125 ST are pretty good for what they are. A disc would be nice, but not a deal breaker. In normal riding, I’ve never felt unsafe or unable to stop quickly enough.
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Discussions and Questions Was Bajaj Remiss In Not Having A Disc Brake Option On The Discover 125 St
Was Bajaj remiss in not having a disc brake option on the Discover 125 ST?
29 January 2025 07:39
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