V type brake pads on Canti's - cartridge or non cartridge?

daniel_b

So with Nicklouse's help I realise my two bikes with Canti brakes do not need cantilever brakes at all :?

They need V's.

On further inspection I have noticed two styles:




The first seems to have a cartridge type arrangement, and the latter is a complete unit.

Does anyone bother with the cartridge style units, or is it the preferred option to replace the whole shebang when it comes to it?

veronese68

I think cartridge are more rigid so give better braking. It's then easier to change the pads next time.

mudcovered

Veronese68 wrote:

I think cartridge are more rigid so give better braking. It's then easier to change the pads next time.

I use the cartridge pads on all my rim braked bikes. Makes replacing them a lot less hassle as you don't have to fiddle about toeing in the pads and aligning them to the rim every time. Just slot out the old and slot in the new.

Cant comment on rigidity. I've never noticed any difference in performance that couldn't be explained by pad compound changes.

Mike

daniel_b

Cheers gents, I plumped for the clarks one in the end.

Shame they do not use a generic size pad replacement.

Would I be correct in thinking that once you buy clarks/Avid cartridge and pads, you have to stick to that manufacturer for the replacements?

How do you get the pins out to change the pads, just use some pliers or something?

veronese68

I think Clark's are Shimano standard V brake cartridge size. Most others will then fit. I had Swissstop green in Clark's cartridge holders as I recall. Yes to pliers.