Brake Caliper Length

Bluestoesonnose
Bluestoesonnose Posts: 372
edited May 2008 in Workshop
Just wanna know why there are two different lengths of brake calipers, how do you know which ones to buy?
This is why!

Comments

  • Gavin Gilbert
    Gavin Gilbert Posts: 4,019
    step outside of The World of Shimano and there's more than 2 :?

    However long reach brakes are generally (but not always) needed for bikes with mudguards. Gives more clearance and makes it less likely debris will jam against the guard and the tyre.
  • topdude
    topdude Posts: 1,557
    Hi, if you have a bike like the Specialized Allez (and most other racy road bikes) there is minimal clearance between the frame/forks and the tyre and the caliper needs a short drop 49mm.
    If you have a Giant SCR or Trek Pilot for example there is much more clearance between the frame and tyre (room for wider tyres or mudguards) so the caliper needs a long drop 57mm.
    Measure from the pivot bolt to the rim and you will know if you need long or short drop.
    He is not the messiah, he is a very naughty boy !!
  • Bluestoesonnose
    Bluestoesonnose Posts: 372
    Cheers All

    And as for stepping outside the world of Shimano, tried it once and it wasn't a happy experiance, I'll stick with stuff that seems to work and suits my needs...
    This is why!

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