Multiple world champion and mountain bike legend Jose Antonio Hermida is famous for pairing skill and fun on the trails. Recently he teamed up with DiscoBrakes to show off his latest upgrade - a striking purple floating rotor. In the video below he tears through technical terrain with an effortless style, and his choice of components is as much about performance as it is about expression.
Mountain bike legend Jose Antonio Hermida has always been known for his skill, style, and sense of fun. Partnering with DiscoBrakes, he recently picked up the camera to give riders a closer look at some core components every mountain biker relies on
Why a floating rotor? Unlike a fixed disc, a floating design attaches the stainless-steel braking ring to a lightweight alloy carrier using rivets. This allows the ring to expand and contract as it heats up without warping, keeps weight low and improves modulation. DiscoBrakes rotors add another layer of personality by offering vibrant colours like purple, red or green alongside classic tones. The rotor Jose runs features:
A high-friction, toughened stainless-steel braking ring for consistent stopping power.
Cross-drilled holes and computer-milled slots to dissipate heat and reduce fade.
A lightweight alloy carrier that comes in a rainbow of colours - in this case a bold purple.
As Jose sends his bike down rocky descents, the purple rotor flashes between the spokes, highlighting both his technical skill and his playful character. He notes that rotors are not just an accessory - they are the heart of your braking system.
"Rotors are the heart of braking. I love how these look sharp and ride even sharper." - Jose Hermida
To complement the rotor, Jose pairs his brakes with DiscoBrakes semi-metallic pads. He explains that while you rarely see them, pads give riders the confidence to brake late and carry speed through corners.
"Good pads are confidence. You don't see them much, but you feel them every time you pull the lever."
Real-world benefits
Control and consistency. Floating rotors reduce brake fade, so braking feel stays predictable on long descents.
Personal expression. Colours like purple let riders match components to their bike while still benefitting from race-proven hardware.
Pro-level reliability. DiscoBrakes components are raced by champions yet remain affordable for everyday riders.
As you watch the video, notice how smoothly Hermida modulates his brakes and how the rotors floating design copes with repeated hard stops. The rotors rivets allow the braking ring to expand without friction, and the colored carrier remains cool to the touch even after intense use.
Hermida also highlights the importance of the small details.
"Sometimes the small things are the big things. Pads, rotors, the basics - they are what let you push harder and enjoy the ride."
That philosophy underpins DiscoBrakes product line: everything from rotor bolts to brake pads is designed to offer reliability, style and value.
Finishing thoughts
Whether you are chasing podiums or exploring local trails, choosing quality components enhances every ride. Joses purple rotors show that performance and flair can coexist - and that DiscoBrakes has options for riders who want to stand out while staying in control.
Ready to personalise your bike? Visit the DiscoBrakes shop for floating rotors in a variety of sizes and colours, or explore our blog to see more videos and tips from pro riders like Jose Hermida.
by support Thu Oct 30, 2025
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Ride Like Jose: The Style and Science of DiscoBrakes Rotors
