SwissStop Catalyst one disc 203mm

SWISSTOP Centerline CenterLock disc 203mm

Catalyst One - One-piece brake disc with proven Catalyst brake ring

The SwissStop Catalyst One brake disc, which has been developed to provide powerful braking and long-lasting durability, is available in a variety of sizes and is suitable for all applications, from road to cyclocross, cross-country, and downhill. The rounded outer edges of the discs make them UCI-approved for road racing (140 and 160mm). Three small holes on each side of the rotor indicate when the disc needs replacing. Compatible with all organic and metallic brake pads. Optimized performance with SwissStop EXOTherm2 and RS Disc.

SwissStop Catalyst brake disc highlights

• For 6-hole brake disc housing
• Thickness of 1.95 mm
• Optimal heat dissipation
• Reliable performance from cyclocross to downhill
• Long service life, even under the most adverse conditions
• 140 and 160mm tested by the UCI
• Wear indicators
• Compatible with organic and sintered brake pads
• Can be used with a Centerlock hub adapter
• Optimized for SwissStop EXOTherm2 and RS Disc

Background to the research and development of the SwissStop Catalyst One

In early 2015, the SwissStop engineering team conducted a series of laboratory tests on bicycle brake discs. The engineers then built digital models of these rotors and simulated the same test conditions using sophisticated software. Data comparison confirmed that the simulations were accurate and effective, and a series of digital prototypes were then developed, tested, and thoroughly evaluated.

Heat transfer in each design was extensively measured using simulation software. The ratio of convection, radiation, surface area, and weight was used to determine the optimal design to achieve maximum heat dissipation and strength with minimal weight. The structure of each design was evaluated using braking forces ranging from typical manual force to the theoretical maximum. Critical pressure points were thus identified in the structure to maximize rotor strength and stiffness.

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations were used to measure the airflow over the rotor surface and through the cutouts. A selection of profiles was tested to determine the effects of asymmetric slots and to optimize the cooling effect of the airflow over the surfaces.

The thermodynamic simulations, structural/material analyses and fluid dynamics visualizations were carried out in collaboration with the Institute of the University of Applied Sciences, HSR, in Rapperswil.

The laboratory test of the Catalyst Disc rotor confirmed the results of the technical simulations. In the continuous load test, the Catalyst delivered exceptional results. While conventional braking systems wear out over time and the material eventually fails (fading), the Catalyst offers consistent braking torque over the long term. Further tests showed extremely efficient heat management, significantly shorter braking distances, very low wear, and structural durability under intense braking. Overall, the Catalyst outperformed the current market-leading models.

By conducting practical tests on prototypes, the development team determined the optimal balance between two essential but contradictory characteristics: braking power and weight. A few carefully calculated grams of additional material on the outer ring immediately reduced braking distances. For certain rotor sizes, the engineers added material to further improve performance and durability.

Scope of delivery: 1 brake disc