Engineering
HINE-R develops precision hydraulic braking components designed to deliver consistent braking performance, reliable control and long-term durability. Every component is created with a focus on functional performance rather than unnecessary complexity, ensuring the braking system behaves predictably across demanding riding conditions.
The goal of the HINE-R project is simple: to create a braking systems that provides strong, controllable braking power, stable lever feel and straight forward servicing. The system is designed so that riders can rely on consistent performance whether riding steep descents, technical terrain or long alpine trails.
Engineering Approach
The HINE-R braking system is designed around the core mechanics that influence hydraulic brake performance. Instead of modifying existing brake layouts, the project focuses on understanding how hydraulic leverage, piston behaviour and system balance affect braking power and control.
Key design priorities include:
- Balanced hydraulic leverage between master cylinder and caliper
- Stable piston behaviour under repeated braking loads
- Smooth and predictable braking modulation
- Reliable piston retraction and pad clearance
- Durable components designed for long-term use
- Serviceable architecture using accessible hardware
Each design decision is made with the objective of creating a braking system that remains consistent and predictable across a wide range of riding conditions.
Hydraulic System Architecture
The performance of a hydraulic brake depends on the relationship between the master cylinder and the caliper pistons. This hydraulic ratio influences braking force, lever travel and the overall feel at the lever.
The HINE-R system is designed to maintain a balanced relationship between these components in order to deliver strong braking power while preserving a light, controlled lever feel.
Four-Piston Caliper Design
The HINE-R caliper uses a four-piston configuration with 16 mm pistons. Using four equal-diameter pistons they distribute hydraulic pressure evenly across the brake pads, helping maintain consistent contact across the rotor surface.
This balanced pressure distribution contributes to improved braking stability during sustained braking and predictable modulation when precise control is required.
Master Cylinder Design
The master cylinder is designed around a piston diameter of approximately 9 mm. This sizing produces a hydraulic ratio that balances braking power, lever travel and modulation.
The result is a braking system that delivers strong stopping power while maintaining a light and responsive lever feel.
Mineral Oil Hydraulic Fluid
The HINE-R braking system operates using mineral oil hydraulic fluid. Mineral oil provides stable Low viscosity across a wide temperature range and simplifies maintenance compared with DOT-based brake systems.
It also reduces the risk of paint damage and makes routine servicing more straight forward.
Piston Seal Behaviour
The geometry of the piston seals plays a critical role in braking feel and piston retraction. The seals must maintain hydraulic pressure while allowing the pistons to retract consistently after braking.
Seal design is therefore carefully considered to ensure stable pad clearance, predictable piston movement and consistent braking performance during repeated braking cycles.
Manufacturing Design
HINE-R components are developed for precision CNC machining. Structural geometry is optimised to maximise strength, dimensional accuracy and long-term durability while avoiding unnecessary complexity.
Manufacturing priorities include:
- Efficient CNC machining geometry
- Strong structural architecture
- Precise machining tolerances
- Clean and serviceable component design
Development Process
The HINE-R braking system is currently under active development. Concepts are first defined using computer-aided design before prototype components are produced to evaluate hydraulic behaviour, structural integrity and system balance.
Prototype components are manufactured using both rapid prototyping and CNC-machined aluminium parts. This allows the design to be physically evaluated and refined through multiple development stages.
Initial testing takes place in the workshop, where piston behaviour, seal performance and hydraulic response can be assessed before progressing to riding tests.
Following workshop validation, prototype components are tested in real riding conditions to evaluate braking stability, lever feel and system consistency under sustained braking loads.
The People Behind HINE-R
The HINE-R braking system is being developed through a collaboration between Lee Hine and Adam Read.
Lee Hine is the founder of Gorilla Brakes and brings extensive experience working with hydraulic braking systems across multiple brake platforms.
Adam Read, formerly of TartyBikes, is responsible for the mechanical engineering and product design behind the HINE-R braking system. His background combines mechanical design expertise with practical knowledge of bicycle component performance and servicing.
Together they bring over 40 years of combined experience, combining hands-on workshop knowledge with mechanical engineering design to develop braking components focused on performance, reliability and serviceability.