MTB Gyros

What is an MTB Rotor (Gyro) and what is its main purpose?

On a normal MTB, the brake cable limits handlebar rotation. A rotor system decouples the brake cable into two parts (upper and lower cables) connected via a rotating bearing on the head tube. This keeps the brake fully functional no matter how many times you spin the bars.

What do I need for installation on an MTB?

Installation on an MTB is slightly more complex than on a BMX. You need:

1. Mechanical Disc Brake: The system works easiest with cable-actuated brakes (e.g., Avid BB5/BB7).
2. Rotor Tabs: Your frame must have holes for mounting on the head tube. If not, you need a "Gyro Plate" placed under the headset cup.
3. Rotor (Gyro): The bearing unit itself (e.g., Odyssey GTX-S or Title G1).
4. Cables: Special Y-cables for the top (lever to rotor) and bottom (rotor to brake). Note: MTB frames are longer than BMX frames, you need extra-long cables!

Which rotor is the right one?

Standard BMX Rotor

Often works, but the inner diameter must fit over the MTB steerer tube (1 1/8 inch is standard).

MTB Specific (e.g., Title / Odyssey GTX-S)

These rotors are manufactured more precisely and run silky smooth to compensate for the friction loss of long cables.

Can I run a rotor with hydraulic brakes?

Theoretically yes, but it is very complicated. You need a special hydraulic rotor (very expensive and high maintenance) or leave the hose extremely long ("Slopestyle Wrap"), which is not a real rotor solution. We recommend mechanical brakes for a stress-free setup.

What do the specifications mean?