Peter W wrote:There still hasn't been a convincing explanation of how Formula 1 braking systems can continue to work reliably (non fade or fail) while the discs are glowing red hot. Stating that cooling ducts, and high speed air flow misses the obvious point that neither PREVENTS the discs, and presumably the pads and callipers and brake fluid itself, from 'boiling up' and glowing red hot from heavy braking. (We see it for ourselves on T.V.) The fact that the ducts and airflow cool things AFTER the heating is not the point. The systems are built to work at red hot temperatures. (Indeed, they don't work properly when cold.)
If our present bike hydraulics are unable to work properly if overheated by fast descents then what is needed is a 'half way house' between the two, with cold working as well as hot, and reasonable durability and serviceability as a requirement. I can't believe that won't be possible with continuing development.
I think you don't understand how the braking system is designed and the constraints around it, in either the F1 case or bicyce brakes. You could have fantastic cooling on bike brakes but they would be very non-aero. A ducting that moved out into the breeze when the brake was applied would be an improvement.
cheers