SRAM HS2 vs. Centerline Rotors
SRAM HS2 vs. Centerline Rotors: In the following article we are going to go over the differences between SRAM's HS2 and centerline rotors.
Thickness and Heat Dissipation
SRAM's HS2 rotors were released by SRAM in 2021 and claim to offer a 7% increase in power compared to SRAM's centerline rotor. This is largely due to the increased thickness which helps improve heat dissipation. The HS2 rotor is 2.0mm thick compared to the centerline rotor at 1.8mm thick. Another benefit of the HS2 rotor is that the spokes towards the center of the rotor have been painted with thermal dissipating paint, helping it cool down even more. As a result of this SRAM claims that the HS2 rotor has superior heat management (40°C less than Centerline, per Garda test).
Design:
SRAM HS2: The HS2 rotor features a two-piece design, with an aluminum spider bonded to a steel braking surface. This design aims to improve heat dissipation.
Centerline Rotors: Centerline rotors feature a single-piece design with a consistent, even braking surface. They are designed to minimize vibration and noise while maximizing heat dissipation.
Weight
The HS2 rotors are slightly heavier than their centerline counterparts. For comparison, a 200mm HS2 rotor weighs 206 grams while a 200mm centerline rotor weighs 188grams. While the weight difference isn't that much, it does matter to some and it all adds up in the end.
Sizes and Mounting
SRAM HS2: The HS2 rotor is available in 160mm, 180mm, 200mm, or 220mm diameter. For mounting options it is available in 6-bolt and centerlock.
Centerline Rotors: Centerline rotors are available in 140mm, 160mm, 180mm, 200mm or 220mm diameter. The centerline rotor is only available in a 6-bolt option.
Pricing
HS2 rotors may offer better heat dissipation than centerline rotors, but it comes at a price as they are quite a bit more expensive. For comparison, a 180mm HS2 rotor is $84.95CAD while a 180mm centerline rotor is $36.95CAD. When it comes to price the centerline rotors are more of the budget friendly version while the HS2 rotors are the best of the best.
Our Take
At the end of the day both rotors are great options and you can't really go wrong with one or the other. If you are looking for a more budget friendly option the centerline rotor is a great choice. It offers solid heat dissipation, is affordable, and has been the go-to option for many years prior to the launch of the HS2. However, if budget isn't a concern and you are looking for the best of the best, than HS2 rotors are what you want. The increased thickness provides better heat dissipation and is overall a superior rotor. It's also nice that the HS2 rotor is available in 6-bolt and centerlock configurations.
You can shop our full selection of rotors here. We offer free shipping on all orders over $149CAD. All orders are processed and shipped within 24 business hours.
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