11 best mountain bike brakes
Mountain bike brakes are a critical component of a mountain bike's safety and performance. They are responsible for slowing down and stopping the bike when needed, especially during steep descents and challenging terrain. Here are some important aspects to know about mountain bike brakes:
Types of Mountain Bike Brakes:
Disc Brakes: Most modern mountain bikes are equipped with disc brakes, which provide reliable stopping power in various conditions. They come in two main types:
- Hydraulic Disc Brakes: These brakes use hydraulic fluid to transmit force, offering precise modulation and powerful braking.
- Mechanical Disc Brakes: These brakes use a cable to actuate the brake caliper, which may require more hand effort but can be easier to maintain.
Rim Brakes: Older mountain bikes and some entry-level models still use rim brakes. These brakes have brake pads that make direct contact with the wheel's rim to create friction for stopping. However, they are less effective in wet and muddy conditions compared to disc brakes.
Brake Levers:
- Brake levers are the components you use to engage the brakes. They come in different shapes and sizes to accommodate various hand sizes and preferences.
- Many modern mountain bike brake levers are designed with adjustable reach, allowing riders to customize the lever's position to suit their hand size and riding style.
Brake Calipers:
- The brake calipers are responsible for squeezing the brake pads onto the rotor (for disc brakes) or the wheel's rim (for rim brakes) to create friction and slow down the bike.
- Proper alignment and adjustment of the calipers are crucial for optimal braking performance.
Brake Pads:
- Brake pads are replaceable components that create friction when they come in contact with the braking surface (rotor or rim).
- Different types of brake pads are available, each designed for specific conditions. For example, some pads are better suited for wet weather or downhill riding, while others offer longer life.
Rotor Size:
- For disc brakes, the rotor's size affects braking performance. Larger rotors generally provide more stopping power but can add weight to the bike.
- Riders often choose rotor sizes based on their riding style and terrain. Downhill riders may prefer larger rotors for maximum stopping power, while cross-country riders might opt for smaller, lighter rotors.
Maintenance:
- Regular maintenance is essential for keeping mountain bike brakes in good working order.This includes cleaning the rotors and brake pads, inspecting for wear, and adjusting the brakes as needed.
- Bleeding hydraulic disc brakes may also be necessary periodically to maintain their performance.
Braking Techniques:
- Effective braking techniques, such as proper weight distribution and modulation, are crucial for safe and controlled riding on different terrains.
- Learning to use both front and rear brakes judiciously and avoiding abrupt, skidding stops can improve control and reduce wear on components.
Mountain bike brakes play a vital role in rider safety and confidence on the trail. Riders should choose brakes that suit their riding style and terrain preferences and regularly maintain them to ensure they function optimally when needed.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best mountain bike brakes on the market- đ´ââď¸- Best Deal, remember it is SHIMANO, please measure your brake hose routing length first for right choice.Whatever for 26" 27.5" 29"er, the completed front & rear set is ready to be installed out of the box. We aim to offer this pair for Front 180mm, Rear 160mm rotors (buy separately in our store), so 4 bracket(adatper) included (addon value >$15) in the package, to satisfy any IS or PM mount from the old bikes;
- đ - Gift Options, it's in our brand package, almost all brakes originally come with a bike need to be replaced. You may find it a gift option to your husband, wife, boyfriend, girlfriend, or gift for your kids' bike for back to school gift, Christmas gift, Valentine's day gift, Mother's day or Father's day gift, thanksGiving gift or New year gifts;
- đ - Ourstanding Performance, Brakes = Safety, assembled as Left for Front,reach adjustable, including B01S resin pads, alway measure your existing brake hose length for appropriate size. People still using cable mechanical disc brakes,time to upgrade with this affortable Hydraulic Brake, the difference is night vs. day, a customer avoided a 25mph accident with our brakes;
- đŤ - We Support Business, We offer business price for bike bicycle shops, schools, rider team, just place bulk order and replace the brakes for your other family bikes, recommend to your community, we love to be your business partners and trusted vendors;
- đ¤ - Match DIY Options, find rotors or bleeding kits for your brakes, find mtb pedals, cassette, single chainring from store page, even groupset to build your bike. We commit for the most affortable bicycle parts to improve your performance and experience!
User questions & answers
Question: | Hi, would these work on a new ecotric electric fat tire foldable mb bike with 20â wheels? it came with tektro aries mechanical disc brake. thanks |
Answer: | it ship from the US warehouse. so, it will be delivered about 7 business days. |
Question: | One of the pictures shows a caliper with an attached adapter for post-to-post mount. Do adapters come for both Front and Rear calipers |
Answer: | the front fork can be put it. but, We suggest you can go to the bicycle shop to install it. |
Question: | Having trouble mounting this my rockshox judy gold rl suspension fork -42 mm offset, a3 front fork, the adapters don't align. what adapter do i need |
Answer: | unless you have received the product only deal with amazon. and even if you have received the product, just deal with amazon. they will tell you when you need to contact the seller. |
Question: | Does this work with electric bikes |
Answer: | âWhat is the maximum PSI that these forks can take without breaking? The chart only lists people up to 220 lbs. I'm curious how much further past 100 PSI can they be filled?â Per the seller: New message from: rm-bike Top Rated Seller(1,194Red Star) Hi,my dear friend Thank you for your timely communication! The maximum PSI is 160. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions, we will try our best to help you. Have a good day! Yours sincerely,ling |
Product description
LITEONE V Brakes, YOUR BEST CHOICES
Feature:
V-Type Brake
Material: Aluminum alloy and Plastic
Arch Size: 110mm
Brake Pads Size: 55mm
Scope of application: V type brake of bicycle.
Aluminum alloy production, strong and durable.
Installation is simple, suitable for most of the use of V brake bicycle.
NOTE
Please confirm whether your bike has a V brake installation hole first.
Note: If you see someting like rusty, it not rusty, just butter. The butter will be used to prevent to rust, prolong service life
- V brake
- Arch Size: 110mm, Brake Pads Size: 55mm
- Material: Alloy and Plastic, Strong and Durable
- Including the brake pads
- Will fit 99% V brake bikes
User questions & answers
Question: | Do the cables come with it |
Answer: | Yes. I did. |
Question: | Do they come with the breaks as well ( picture |
Answer: | 9/16" thread |
Question: | By "1 pair" do they mean two full sets, for front and rear |
Answer: | I believe they are made in the U.S.! Even if they arenât they are super high quality definitely recommend em I rarely ever have pedal slips! |
Question: | The ad is very confusing. is this for a pair for both wheels or is it just for one wheel? the first picture shows two sets implying front and rear |
Answer: | Material: [body] 6061-T6 aluminum, [axle] chromoly steel |
- You will get: 2 pairs mountain bike brakes with the brake pads fit for most bicycle, road bike, etc.; 2 Pieces barrel ended brake cables (2 m in length), 2 pieces cable end caps and 6 pieces end ferrules
- Product dimensions: the bike brakes in arch size is 110 mm (4.3 inches), brake pad is 55 mm (2.1 inches), barrel ended brake cables are 2 m in length
- Durable material: this bike brakes set is made of alloy and plastic, strong and durable enough for using long time, meet your needs
- How to install: 1. screw the fixing hole of the brake corresponding to the body fixing hole; 2. Pass the brake wire through the brake wire tube in sequence, and fix the position of the metal wire tube; 3. Fix the brake line on the bolt, then install the brake leather, adjust the distance, position and length of the brake line, and then fix the brake line firmly; See picture 6 for details
- Wide applications: this bike brakes set fits for most bicycles, road bikes, MTB, BMX; Warm note: you need to confirm whether the rear wheel of your car has the mounting hole of this type of brake, please be careful to purchase
User questions & answers
Question: | Does this include brake boot |
Answer: | Hello, this is Alice from AQUOS to answer, this is the 65 LBS transom trolling motor, suitable for boats weighing up to 3500 LBS. Max Boat Length 19.6 ft. When you operate the trolling motor correctly, the motor will not be damaged at the slow speed. |
Question: | Is this set works on kids bike |
Answer: | The length of motor shaft is 28 inches |
Question: | Do these brakes work for cruiser bikes |
Answer: | 3 |
Question: | will these work on a dahon folding bike |
Answer: | I have the 86ft lb thrust trolling motor and if you're asking about the mount bracket mine opens to 3" |
Product features
2 x Mountain bike brake cables
2 x Cable end caps
6 x End ferrules
Product description
The BR-T4000 Rear V-Brake by Shimano features an efficient design with low operating forces that are designed for smooth and quiet stopping power. It is a X-type V-brake with an 107 mm arch. The mudguard prevents excess accumulation of mud, helping to ensure safe operation.
- Efficient design with low operating forces
- Designed for smooth and quiet stopping power
- 107 mm arch
- X-type V-brake
- Mudguard prevents excess accumulation of mud
User questions & answers
Question: | What's the difference between these and shimano acera v-brake calipers br-m422? better? worse? different mounting? thanks |
Answer: | I also had no instructions and 0000 did not work, search on line on how to open a 4 digit lock. This worked for me I figured out the combo in less than a minute !!!!??? then set your new combo. It is easy |
Question: | Would this fit a gtm 26-inch 7 speed folding mountain bike |
Answer: | Hello, we recommend at least 12V x 105Ah deep cycle battery for the trolling motor. |
Question: | Will they fit 700c wheel |
Answer: | both the hand controllers and the foot pedals are overrated. I use this bad boy on a 14 Ft Jon boat, when bass fishing right up on strangers docks and lake garages, I constantly need to tend the trolling motor, so I don't drift away from the spot I like. Your handheld controller might be nice for trolling, but probably not, its probably BS and slow. You gotta get in there manually with your hands on the motor. Get in the game, no remote. indians were carrying canoes! |
Question: | Rear, front.... Whats the difference |
Answer: | Hello This is Joy at your service Thanks for your inquiry The shaft diameter of the Haswing 65LBS transom motor is about 1.18inch And the shaft length is 35.4 inch Hope this answer can help you Sincerely Joy |
- Upgraded bicycle brake pads,Spring tension adjustable.
- Lightweight rim brakes give more stopping power.
- Arch size:110mm,Brake Pads Size:70mm.
- Includes 2 pairs mountain bike brakes & noodles ,boots,screws. +2 pcs brake lever ( 2.5 fingerďź+ 2pcs brake cable
- 12-month warranty for V brakes set
User questions & answers
Question: | Are there instructions |
Answer: | They are universal caliper brakes and will work on this product. |
Question: | Are there instructions |
Answer: | The holder works well but you may have to use another type of liner depending on the diameter of your top tube. Mine was too large for the provided liner and too small without so I had to"rig" it myself. That was really no problem in my opinion though. I have only set the combination once and have not had to reset it, but it works easily enough. Overall I am pleased with the setup and would recommend this product. |
Question: | Will this fit a 24" mountain bike |
Answer: | Absolutely, I have a friend with only one arm who can easily work it. |
Question: | Does this come with the cable housing |
Answer: | No cable lock(regardless of size) will stop a bike thief, cable locks are to stop opportunistic thieves that take an unlocked bike only. |
Product description
The br-t4000 front v-brake by Shimano features an efficient design with low operating Forces that are designed for smooth and quiet stopping power. It is a x-type v-brake with an 107 mm arch. The mudguard prevents excess accumulation of mud, helping to ensure safe operation. Shimano non-series components might be better called all-series due to their versatility. Cassettes, brakes and cranks, etc. From the non-series components work as well with the Deore as they will with Tourney. Since 1921, Shimano has produced the world's finest bicycle parts. Precision shifting, with a look all their own, Shimano has earned a reputation for the best products at all price points. Shimano delivers products that are innovative, industry-leading, and perform up to the world-class reputation that Shimano has developed over the decades.
User questions & answers
Question: | Would these work for a 700x38 rim |
Answer: | I donât know about this package. My order did not have the brake handles. Just the brake pad assembly and it did not have cable housing. |
Question: | Can this work with a fixie |
Answer: | Dear T. Connolly, V-brakes have stronger lateral pull and caliper brakes are in general weaker, in that they pull from one side. If you have additional technical questions, please feel free to call us at 1-877-BIKEAID (245-3243) and our experienced technician would be pleased to assist you! Thanks and best! |
Question: | I have textro rx 5s. will these work |
Answer: | yes 26" rim |
Question: | Does this fit a schwinn touring bike |
Answer: | Hello Ewa N., Thanks for your inquiry! Yes this Rear V-Brake will fit a 700c wheel. If you have additional questions about fit or this product, please call us at 1-877-BIKEAID (245-3243) and we would be happy to assist you! Thank you and best :) |
Question: | How are the bike brake pads under snow and rain road conditions |
Answer: | The only difference is in the brake pad direction. Front and rear pads are oriented oppositely to one another. You can use either front or rear brakes as long as the pads are mounted in the proper direction. |
Question: | Will it fit 20" kids bike |
Answer: | Yes it does include the brake boot for each brake. |
Question: | How many pairs comes?? And also is it works for the rare wheel |
Answer: | It is only suitable for some children's wheels, the specific needs to see the wheel model. |
Question: | Are these bicycle brake pads made of rubber or plastic |
Answer: | Yes |
Product description
Bike brake replacement kit include 2 pieces brake handles, 4 pieces bike brakes, 8 pieces bike shift cables, 5 pieces silicone o rings, 10 pieces cable end ferrules and 20 pieces cable end caps
Easy to install the brake:
1. Remove the handlebar grip, adjust the screw, make screw gaps and brake handle cracks be line.
2. Clench handlebar to let the hammer head of brake line into the corresponding line hole and then chucking.
3. Close the lever, tighten the screws and install handlebar grip.
Durable to use:
Tools in the bike brake replacement kit possesses reliable material to have a long service time, which can present more safety to your cycling trip, they will not cause scratches to the wheel rim and low noise to disturb cyclists.
Applicable scope:
Bike shift cables set allows people to use in most bikes, such as mountain bike, folding bike, road bike and city bike. Practical repair tools for you to use in daily life.
Specifications:
Color: as shown in picture
Size: as shown in picture
Bicycle brake handle material: aluminum alloy
Bike shift cables material: zinc
Package includes:
2 x Brakes handles
2 Pairs bike brake sets (each pair includes additional 1 piece brake noodle, 1 piece brake boot and 2 pieces screws)
4 x 1.55 M front bike shift cables
4 x 2.1 M rear bike shift cables
5 x Clear silicone O-rings
10 x Cable end ferrules
20 x Cable end caps
Note:
Due to manual measurement, please allow slight differences on size.
There might have slight color differences due to different displays.
- Ample quantity: you will get 2 pieces brakes handles, 2 pairs bike brake sets (each pair includes additional 1 piece brake noodle, 1 piece brake boot and 2 pieces screws), 8 pieces bike shift cables (4 pieces 1.55 m front cables and 4 pieces 2.1 m rear shift cables), 5 pieces clear silicone O-rings, 10 pieces cable end ferrules and 20 pieces cable end caps
- Reliable bicycle brake handle: made of aluminum alloy, bicycle brake handle is durable and sturdy, its 4 fingers version make the handle easy to hold; Besides, the installation is simple to complete with the help of ample tools
- Bike brake set: bike brake has a smooth braking performance when in riding, its arm length is about 4.33 inches/ 110 mm, its pad is about 2.36 inches/ 60 mm; Dual sided actuation of the brake makes the pad produce equal clamping force both in dry and wet environments
- Bike shift cable: bike shift cables are made of zinc, they have flexible movement and good corrosion resistance, durable for a long time riding, offering safety to people; They are suitable for speed control system, helping you choose a speed you want; It is better to wear caps on the cables to prevent cable end being scratched
- Wide application: bike brake kit is an useful replacement set for most bikes, including folding bike, mountain bike, city bike, road bike, practical tools to effectively solve your problems
User questions & answers
Question: | Will these fit a schwinn meridian 26 in trike model s |
Answer: | The brake pads are made of hyathetic fiber and nitrile rubber, they have supreme durable and long-lasting than ordinary rubber, and they have no pungent odor. |
Question: | Will these fit 24â boys Giant mountain bike |
Answer: | No |
Question: | It says 2 pack. Do you get front and rear |
Answer: | I did not get instructions with ours |
Question: | Can an older univega with center pull brakes be retrofitted with these brakes |
Answer: | If you have a similar system it'll work |
Product features
Adjust Brake Arm Tension
Check your brake arm tension. The arms should have good spring tension, which makes them release when you let go of the brake lever. Youâll notice a small piece of metal pin out the backside of the brake, This is the spring, and it slides into one of three holes on your frame or fork to adjust the tension of Brake Arm
Install & Align Brake Pads
install the brake pads, with the washers in the same order as they were before. Align the brake pads so the pad face is flat against the rim. Make sure both the front and rear of the pad should contact the rim at the same time. Take a look from the side to make sure the pad is in line with the rimâs brake surface, and not touching the tire or hanging off the bottom of the rim.
Brake Arm Centering
Make sure both pads now have equal clearance, and are not rubbing against the rim. Both pads should contact the rim at the same time. If not, you can adjust the centering by tightening or loosening the side adjustment screw with your screwdriver.
- Including 4 pairs of 70mm brake pads which are suitable for most of V-brake road bike, mountain bike. Each pair have left and right, please read the text mark on the brake pads before installation
- Made of hard-wearing rubber and aluminum alloy, these brake pads are supreme durable and long-lasting for all weather
- Unique sand-guide grooves effectively prevent sand/stone damages to the wheel rims
- Slightly curved design doesn't hurt the wheel and provide better stopping power, less noise
- Each brake pad comes with 1 piece hex nut and 5 pieces spacers. A hex wrench is provided for easy installation and remove
User questions & answers
Question: | Do they work on Tektro Cantilever brakes |
Answer: | It comes with four pads- 2 for front/ 2 for back. Yes, it works for rear tire as well. Very easy to install. |
Product description
Hyacinth's products account for 30% of the market share in China, all bicycles brake cables linked together can make a circle on the earth!
If you have a love heart of protect the earth, letâs us advocate green travel & green earth actively.
Now add Hyacinth bicycle brake cable to your shopping cart!
Produce Specification
Material: stainless steel with zinc-coated
Front Brake Cable Length*Width: 1100mm*1.4mm
Rear Brake Cable Length*Width: 1800mm*1.4mm
Cable End Caps Length*Width: 7mm*6mm
Cable End Ferrule Length*Width: 10mm*3mm
Lifetime Guarantee
Hyacinth provides a lifetime guarantee on our products. You will have full refund or return as you wish during the guarantee periods.
Package Includes
10*Brake Cable Wire (5*Front, 5*Rear)
10*Cable End Caps (For Free)
10*Cable End Ferrule(For Free)
- ăCORROSION RESISTANCEă - The brake cable are made of highest standard zinc-coated, Each cable consists of 19 wires. it can provide smooth movement and higher corrosion resistance, strong durable.
- ăPERFECT KITă - It has everything you need: you get enough sheath ferrules and end caps, two different length front and rear cables. Fortunately it is long enough to work perfectly on your bike, fit for tandem bike too.
- ăEASY TO OPERATION REPLACEă - Make sure you use the shortest cable first that goes to your front brake, then use the longer cable for your back brake. I suggest you used a Dremel tool with abrasive when you want to cut off the brake cable. Please wear the caps on the cables when using them to prevent the cable end being scratched.
- ăWIDELY USAGESă - Used by professionals. fit most bikes, for example MTB, road bike, BMX bike, folding bike, recreational cycling.
- ăBRAKING CABLE TENSION WELLă - A people about 250lbs, the amount of force from brake line comes under slowing to a stop, perfectly act well. Even no any issues yet after using them for more than 200 miles of riding.
User questions & answers
Question: | Teflon coated |
Answer: | No |
Question: | The brake cable fit for both disc and V-clip brakes |
Answer: | It fits cable disc, not hydraulic. |
Question: | Does this work as a gear cable |
Answer: | The brake cable and the gear cables are different. The brake cable has a larger head at the end that goes to the brake handle and smaller head for the gear. They are not interchangeable. |
Question: | do you have 2mm cable with 10x7mm barrel on the end |
Answer: | Sorry, No |
Product description
Material:
Bracket & Lever: Melt forged Aluminium alloy 6061.
Adjustment bolt: Aluminium alloy.
Clamp bolts: steel.
Cable: Stainless steel.
Size:
Length * Height: Approx. 160 Ă 92mm / 6.3 Ă 3.6in
Handle Length: Approx. 100mm
Clamp Inner Diameter: Approx. 22.2mm/0.87in
Cable Size: 5mm Ă1700mm
Weight: about 96g/item.
Color: Slick Black/Silver/Sandblasting Silver.
Brake lever actuation type: V-brakes, cantilever brakes, side pull brakes, rim brakes and linear pull brakes.
Feature: Extended long ergonomic brake lever for Mountain Bike, BMX, Road Bicycle, MTB, Folding, City, commuter, Fixie etc.
Fit for: Bike handles in 22mm-22.2mm diameter.
Package List: 1 pair left and right bike brake levers, 2 pcs brake cables.(No cable housing included)
NOTE: Only used as brake levers, not fit for shifter.
- Material: Aluminium alloy 6061, strong and durable.
- CNC MTB brake levers are only suitable for bike handles in 22mm-22.2mm diameter.
- Bike extended 4-finger brake levers are compatible with V-brakes and cantilever brakes.
- Easy to install. Mountain bike brake levers are suitable for most linear pull brakes bicycles such as BMX, MTB, Folding bike, Kids bike, Fixie cycling etc.
- Package List: 1 pair left and right bike brake handles with cable.
User questions & answers
Question: | How long are the cables |
Answer: | Dear valued Amazon Customer, As long as the bike has v-brake mount, it will work. If you have additional questions about the SHIMANO BR-T4000 Front V-Brake- call us at 1-877-BIKEAID (245-3243) and we would be pleased to assist. Thanks and best! |
Question: | how do I expand the rings to get it in the handlebars |
Answer: | If your bike is currently compatible with V-brakes, then yes, your Tektro RX 5S reverse braking levers will work just fine with these v-brakes. They use the same kind of brake cable as regular levers. Happy riding! |
Question: | What is the warranty |
Answer: | Dear valued customer, If your bicycle has V-brake mounts, then this Shimano BR-T4000 would work for you. If you have any technical questions feel free to call us at 1-877-BIKEAID (245-32413) and we would be pleased to assist you. Thanks and best. |
Question: | Will this work on a Roadmaster 24" Granite Peak mountain bike |
Answer: | The bike brake pads works well even in rainy and snow days. |
Question: | Does this work with caliper or side-pull brakes? Or only v-brake and disk brakes |
Answer: | Yes. It will fit. |
- Complete inner replacement cable kit: includes 4 pieces barrel ended brake cables, 4 pieces gear shift cables, 8 pieces cable end caps and 8 set (24 pieces) donuts
- Length of cables: these cables all are approx. 2 m/ 6.56 ft in total length, and their length can be cut easily to match well with your bikes
- 8 Set (24 pieces) donuts: these donuts are supplied in 8 sets, and each set contains 3 pieces, 24 pieces totally; And they fit to 1.2 mm - 1.5 mm diameter cables, please wear them on the cables when using them
- Usages: the slick cables made of durable metal allow for better braking power and smooth operation; This inner bike cable set fits for mountain bikes, suitable for front or rear gear and brake
- Useful donuts and caps: the donuts can keep your bike from the grind lacquer; And the caps help prevent the cable end from being scratched
User questions & answers
Question: | Are the cables galvanized or stainless steel? Description says "Material: metal, aluminum and silicone" but aluminum likely refers to the end caps |
Answer: | Stainless |
Question: | What metal is the cable (Stainless steel, coated steel, etc |
Answer: | I don't know, but I think it is either a stainless steel or a galvanized steel. |
Question: | Does it has a housing as well |
Answer: | No housing, just the cable and crimps. |
Question: | What diameter is the barrel on the cables |
Answer: | The barrel is not 3/16 inch it is just less than a 1/4 inch. |
Latest Reviews
View all
Lucas Lip Balm
- Updated: 15.05.2023
- Read reviews

Oem Headlamp
- Updated: 18.01.2023
- Read reviews

Amd Best Processors
- Updated: 16.04.2023
- Read reviews

Freeman Nailer
- Updated: 03.02.2023
- Read reviews

Aukey Cameras
- Updated: 13.06.2023
- Read reviews