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When it comes to biking, one of the essential parts of it is to have reliable brakes. Without that, you won’t be able to fully enjoy the ride, as you will always worry about accidents.
But, what if you get a set of brakes that will not only keep you safe but will also make the ride more fun for you?
Now, that is where cantilever brakes come in. With the best cantilever brakes, your vehicle will have great stopping power, and you will have full confidence.
In this article, we have provided all the information that you will need to get the most suitable cantilever brakes for your bicycle. So, let’s get started already.
Table of Contents
Benefits of Using Cantilever Brakes
Before you get yourselves one of these, you need to get familiar with all the aspects that will prove to be beneficial to you.
Otherwise, you won’t have a proper look at what you are missing out on.
Great for Riding on Hills
Most types of brakes are unreliable when you are descending a hill- why? That is because the act is dangerous, and most brakes cannot prevent accidents in such circumstances.
However, cantilever brakes are designed in such a way that makes them great even when going down a hill.
Guarantees Total Safety
If you install a set of cantilever brakes on your bike, then it is sure to become much safer to operate.
That is because these tools usually come with optimal stopping power, which ensures security at all times.
Even if you are on slippery terrain, these brakes will know how to stop your bike within the shortest time possible.
Long-Lasting Construction
Worried about replacing brakes every now and then? That wouldn’t be a matter of concern when it comes to these ones.
That is because they are usually constructed in a durable manner, which ensures longevity.
They will continue to provide top-notch performance for as long as they are functional. And surely, that is a long period of time.
Affordable
Despite their praiseworthy performance and life span, you would be surprised to know that they are actually very affordable. That’s right; you won’t need to splurge a lot of money just to get a good set.
Just make sure you are getting one from a trustworthy brand, and you will be all set.
Smooth Rides Even in Traffic
Maneuvering through traffic nowadays can be quite hassle-some. Most brakes don’t do justice to the situation, which can cause the riders to become more and more frustrated.
However, cantilever brakes are made in such a way that you will never face any difficulty when moving in heavy traffic.
Best Cantilever Brakes Comparison
| Model | Handle Type | Item Dimensions | Brand | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avid Shorty Ultimate Rear | cantilever | 7 x 7 x 2 inches | Avid | Check Price |
| Paul Canti-Levers | Lever | 5 x 4.25 x 1 inches | Paul Component Engineering | Check Price |
| Paul Neo-Retro Bicycle Cantilever | Lever | 7.5 x 5.25 x 1.25 inches | Paul Component | Check Price |
| TEKTRO CR720 Cyclocross | Lever | 6.97 x 5.28 x 2.2 inches | Tektro | Check Price |
| Tektro CR710 Canti Brake | Lever | 8 x 4 x 2.25 inches | TEKTRO | Check Price |
Top 5 Cantilever Brakes Review 2021
With multiple options available in the market, it’s often difficult to choose a suitable one.
However, fret not, because here we have discussed 5 of the top cantilever brakes for your convenience.
Avid Shorty Ultimate Rear
Are you looking for a highly recommended cantilever brake, which provides convenience as well as reliability? In that case, here’s one that you totally shouldn’t miss out on.
Along with all the mentioned aspects, the product offers durability as well. It is made of aluminum, which not only provides strength but also prevents the brake from rusting.
On the other hand, even if you are not experienced with cantilever brakes, you don’t have to worry about its installation.
That is because it comes with an easy set-up process along with proper instructions regarding it.
Furthermore, they come with amazing stopping power. They have a high weight capacity as well, which allows them to stop smoothly and effortlessly no matter which speed you are traveling at.
Worried about having trouble when adjusting the brakes? Fret not. These ones are made in such a way that allows its users to adjust effortlessly at all times.
So, you can conveniently alter them to a narrow or wide stance whenever necessary.
Sadly though, the brake cable that comes with it is not up to the mark. The cable causes extra friction within the barrel adjuster, so they should be replaced.
On the other hand, they tend to have less stopping power in the narrow configuration.
PROS
CONS
Related Guide: Best Hybrid Bike Pedals
Paul Canti-Levers Black
If you want a high-end cantilever brake, which is beautifully finished and guarantees top-notch performance, then here’s something you should definitely take a look at. It is surely engineered to exceed the expectations of its users.
The tool comes with a lot of features and facilities that truly makes it one of its kind. For instance, with two sealed cartridge bearing pivots, the product provides more angular, pivotal, and oscillator applications for you.
On the other hand, the brakes also come with oversized barrel adjusters. The benefit of this feature is that it allows easy cable adjustment, even with thick gloves on.
More importantly, the brushed finish of the product, along with its heavy-duty construction, makes sure it lasts for a considerable amount of time.
Therefore, you won’t have to worry about replacing the tool anytime soon.
Apart from that, the brake also offers top-notch stopping power and commendable performance at all times.
Therefore, whether you need to move around the traffic fast or go down the hill, you can do all that conveniently.
However, if you aren’t willing to invest a lot of money in a cantilever brake, then this is surely not the one for you, as it is quite expensive. Moreover, the tool is not very suitable for muddy terrains as well.
PROS
CONS
Paul Neo-Retro Brake Set
Often times, it is difficult to find brakes that protect and perform well against mud and grit.
Thankfully, here’s one that will not disappoint in this sector. Find out more about this marvelous product in this review.
First of all, the pair of brakes offer durability like none other. With carefully machined alloy construction, the product knows how to last long, and it surely knows how to perform well during the entire time.
On the other hand, they come with O-ring sealed pivots, which protects the bike from unnecessary mud and grit. Therefore, you won’t have to invest your time and effort in cleaning the mud after a ride.
Moreover, the tool allows you to independently adjust the spring tension whenever you deem it necessary. Also, the process is quite easy, so you won’t have to struggle with it at all!
The brake comes with commendable stopping power no matter which wheel you set it on, which allows you to drive without any worries in different terrains.
Also, you can choose from two colors to match your bike perfectly- black and silver.
However, when it comes to installing these, you might struggle a little, as they don’t come with ample instructions.
On the other hand, you need to order them in pairs for both your front and rear wheels.
PROS
CONS
Related Comparison: Cycleops Fluid 2 vs Jet Fluid Pro
Tektro CR720 Cyclocross
If you are looking for an amazing pair of brakes for both your bike’s front and rear wheels, then here’s a set that you shouldn’t miss out on. Find out more about this reasonably priced product in this review.
When it comes to durability, this product keeps its customers’ satisfied. First of all, the brakes are made of aluminum. As a result, neither will they break apart easily, nor will they get warped over time.
On the other hand, they come with a 21-35 mm dimension. This aspect makes them suitable for multiple cross bikes, which relieves you from the tension of whether or not they will be apt for your vehicle.
More importantly, you can relax while installing them as well. That is because they come with a very effortless installation process, along with all the tools and parts needed for it. Hence, you won’t need to purchase anything extra as well.
Furthermore, they also include 55 mm adjustable cartridge pads. Now, these parts are very efficient and prevent brake fades from time to time.
As a result, you won’t need to worry about replacing them anytime soon.
If you are looking for a set of brakes that will perform just as well on muddy terrains, then this is not for you.
Moreover, they come with average stopping power, which might disappoint the customers from time to time.
PROS
CONS
Related Topic: Tektro vs Shimano Brakes
TEKTRO CR710 Cantilever Cyclocross Brake
With so many options out there, you would surely want a cantilever brake that provides good value for money. Well, you have to wait no more because here’s a product that offers that, along with a lot more.
First of all, when it comes to the installation of this brake, you will have nothing to worry about.
That is because it comes with ample information regarding the process and also includes all the parts and hardware necessary for it.
On the other hand, the amount of power offered by the brake exceeds the expectations of its users. This allows its customers to swiftly move around in heavy traffic, and confidently go downhills.
More importantly, the aluminum construction of the product makes it more durable.
As a result, neither will the brake rust, nor will it fall apart easily. This relieves you from the tension of replacing this one anytime soon.
The brake only weighs about 5.1 ounces and has 8 x 4 x 2.2 inches dimensions.
As a result, this lightweight product will never make your bike heavier than it already is, and will prove to be convenient to you in general.
Sadly though, these brakes are not very easy to adjust. Therefore, you might struggle a little while adjusting it. Moreover, you will have to be a little careful with them in rocky terrains.
PROS
CONS
Suggested Guide: Continental Grand Prix 4 Season or Gatorskin
What to Look for Before Buying?
Before investing in any product, there are certain essential factors that you must adhere to.
This includes your bike, your preferences, the terrain you will usually ride on, and other generic features.
If you overlook anything, then you will end up with an unsatisfactory product, and you wouldn’t really want that.
Durability
If a mechanical product doesn’t happen to be durable, then there’s really no point in investing in it.
Therefore, the first and foremost factor to look out for is the construction of the brake.
They should have a heavy-duty construction. That is, the brakes should be made of high-quality metal and should be machined accordingly.
Otherwise, it really wouldn’t be worth splurging on.
Performance and Stopping Power
A great set of brakes will surely offer great performance and top-grade stopping power.
That is, they should always ensure safety and great maneuverability despite the condition of the terrains or the traffic.
Therefore, take a look at the stopping power offered by the product before you purchase it. If the brake lacks in this sector, then it surely wouldn’t be worth it.
Budget
Although most cantilever brakes are affordable, it is still important to keep a budget in mind before purchasing one of these.
You can find great sets in different price ranges offered by different brands.
Hence, first, take a look at all the features and facilities that you will be needing and then determine your budget.
You will surely find a product accordingly.
Warranty
The warranty of a product plays a huge role in determining the amount of time it’s going to last.
For instance, if a brake comes with a two-year-long warranty, then you can be assured that you will be able to make full use of it during that period.
Types of Cantilever Brakes
Before you look for a set of cantilever brakes, you need to determine the type that would be the most suitable for your bike. There are three types that you need to choose from.
Wide Profile
A wide profile cantilever-brake comes with a greater angle than 90 degrees. These ones have low mechanical benefits and brake levers that come with powerful mechanical advantages.
Medium Profile
These ones come with an angle of around 90 degrees. They are more traditional and backdated than the other profiles.
Low Profile
Low profile brakes come with an angle that is below 90 degrees. These don’t tend to stick out much, so they don’t catch things. However, you will need to be very careful when installing them.
How to Adjust Cantilever Brakes in the Right Way?
One of the trickiest parts of having cantilever brakes on your bike is knowing how to adjust them correctly. Otherwise, you might struggle when using them from time to time.
Hence, read this part carefully, so you don’t miss out on anything.
Set Up the Levers
Before you get to the main part, you need to set up the levers. At first, you need to unfasten the clamp, and then you will get to align the levers.
This is done to match the angle of the arms, after which you need to tighten the clamp.
Check the Wheel Center
After the previous step is done, you need to check the best road bike wheel and make sure it is centered in the frame. This will be affecting the position of the brake pads.
Afterward, check whether or not the axle is fastened in the dropouts.
Adjust the Brake Pads
This part is quite necessary, even if it may not seem to be so. What you will have to do is basically check whether or not the brake pads are still good to go or if they need to be replaced.
If they are good, then you should resurface them using sandpaper. Afterward, adjust the brake cable until they are parallel and then fasten.
Alter the Cable Tension
After you have completed the previous step, you need to adjust the cable tension. For that, you need to fasten the cable through the pinch bolt and then fix it.
Center Adjustments
This step is pretty insignificant and doesn’t take a lot of time either, but it is still recommended to go through with it. Basically, what you will have to do is, find the screw on the left brake arm.
You can swiftly adjust this screw to place the spring tension to one side, according to your convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cantilever brakes and V-brakes interchangeable?
In some instances, yes. That is because V-brakes are just a more evolved version of the cantilever brakes.
V-brakes are cable-actuated but far more effortless to adjust, and the pads on them are easier to change as well.
What is a cantilever brake?
Cantilever brakes are basically rim brakes, in which each brake arm has the brake shoe as well as the cable attachment both on the same side of the pivot.
Hence, the cable comes from above the tire, while the pivot is below the brake shoe and attached to the frame.
How to fix squeaky cantilever brakes?
For that, you have to use a 1000 grit wet/dry paper to sand the rim, and then clean again with alcohol. Afterward, use a 400 grit wet/dry paper to clean the brake pads.
Are cantilever brakes good?
Yes. In fact, they are supposedly better than other types of brakes.
That is because they tend to offer more power and reliability. Furthermore, they are perfect for touring bikes and can handle higher weights in general.
What is the cost of cantilever brakes?
You can find cantilever brakes in a variety of price ranges. However, they are mostly available at an average price range of 80 to 120 dollars.
You can surely find them at a higher or lower price, in accordance with your budget.
Final Words
Still haven’t found the most suitable set of brakes? Worry not. If you keep all the necessary factors in mind, then you will surely be able to get your hands on the best cantilever brakes soon.
Have some patience, and keep looking!