Developing the HINE-R Hydraulic Brake System

At Gorilla Brakes we spend a lot of time working with hydraulic braking systems in the workshop. Testing brake pads across a wide range of brake models provides a unique insight into how modern disc brake systems behave in real riding conditions.

Over time this experience has naturally led to a deeper interest in the mechanical design behind hydraulic braking systems. After years of analysing brake performance, piston behaviour, seal characteristics and hydraulic balance, we began exploring what a braking system designed from first principles might look like.

This idea eventually developed into a collaborative engineering project between Lee Hine, founder of Gorilla Brakes, and mechanical designer Adam Read.

Together they began developing what is now known as the HINE-R braking system.

What is HINE-R Engineering?

HINE-R Engineering is a new project focused on developing precision hydraulic braking components for mountain bikes. The project combines workshop experience from Lee Hine with mechanical design and product development led by Adam Read.

Adam Read, formerly of TartyBikes, brings extensive experience in bicycle component design and mechanical problem solving. Working together, the goal is to develop a complete braking platform built around mechanical simplicity, balanced hydraulic performance and precision CNC machining.

Rather than simply modifying existing brake designs, development focuses on the underlying mechanics of hydraulic braking systems including piston sizing, hydraulic leverage ratios, seal behaviour and structural rigidity.

You can learn more about the project at HINE-R Engineering.

Why Develop a New Brake System?

Working with brake systems every day highlights both the strengths and weaknesses of current designs. While many modern brakes offer impressive power, issues such as inconsistent lever feel, piston imbalance and servicing complexity are still common across many systems.

The aim of the HINE-R project is not simply to create more braking power, but to design a braking system that offers:

• Predictable braking modulation
• Balanced hydraulic performance
• Consistent piston behaviour
• Long-term mechanical reliability
• Straightforward servicing

Achieving these goals requires careful consideration of the entire hydraulic system rather than focusing on individual components in isolation.

Engineering Approach

Development of the HINE-R brake system follows an iterative engineering process involving mechanical analysis, prototype machining and real-world testing.

Early prototype calipers use a four piston configuration with 16mm pistons, designed to distribute braking force evenly across the brake pads while maintaining predictable hydraulic behaviour.

Hydraulic balance between the master cylinder and caliper pistons is carefully analysed to achieve a light lever feel while maintaining strong braking performance.

The system is also designed around mineral oil hydraulic fluid, providing stable viscosity characteristics and simplified servicing compared with DOT-based brake systems.

From Workshop Testing to Engineering Development

Much of the early development work has been informed by real workshop experience gained through Gorilla Brakes. Understanding how brake pads interact with different braking systems has provided valuable insight into rotor behaviour, heat management and braking consistency.

Combining this practical experience with mechanical design expertise and prototype manufacturing allows the project to move beyond theory and into real engineering development.

Ongoing Development

The HINE-R brake system remains under active development. Each prototype iteration informs further refinement of hydraulic performance, structural design and long-term system reliability.

Future development stages will focus on durability testing, machining optimisation and production validation.

The objective is to deliver a braking system that combines precision engineering, predictable braking performance and long-term mechanical reliability.

To follow the development of the project, visit hine-r.com.