Possible to mix brake levers & caliper?

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I have a Bridgestone MB5 with diacompe XCE brake levers & calipers. These brake calipers are cantilever and I'd like to change to V brakes.

I know it's possible to replace the whole lot but do I really need to replace the levers? Wouldn't just replacing the calipers and cable do?

TIA
Lise

Originally posted by lpederson
I have a Bridgestone MB5 with diacompe XCE brake levers & calipers. These brake calipers are cantilever and I'd like to change to V brakes.

I know it's possible to replace the whole lot but do I really need to replace the levers? Wouldn't just replacing the calipers and cable do?

TIA
Lise

I don't know specifically your type of setup there - but generally, yes, you can mix and match.

Originally posted by MtnBikerChk
I don't know specifically your type of setup there - but generally, yes, you can mix and match.

Hmmm, you sure about that? My limited reading has lead me to believe that cantilever brake levers cannot be used with V brake calipers... Please note I said "limited reading"... If you have experience / knowledge otherwise, please let me know.

Lise

As a rule you can not mix cantilever levers with linear pull brakes. Avid used to make (and may still?) a roller attachment that allowed someone to use their older canti levers with linear pull brakes. I never used them and never talked with anyone that did, but Avid tends to make products that work well. I would do some research on the online bike retailers or contact Avid. Good luck. I'm sure with some patience you can find some of those things.

K.

My limited reading has lead me to believe that cantilever brake levers cannot be used with V brake calipers

I agree. The amount of cable that the levers must pull is different between cantilevers and v-brakes. When I made the change I replaced levers and calipers - you can often buy them as a set that is cheaper than either the levers or calipers separate.

If you're looking for good value in v-brakes try Tektro. Not as nicely finished as Shimano or Avid, but ok weight and superb stopping power.

Originally posted by lpederson
I know it's possible to replace the whole lot but do I really need to replace the levers? Wouldn't just replacing the calipers and cable do?
I ve tried it on 3 occasions and success depends on a lot of things. Generally speaking canti handles does pull less wire than v-brake handles which can cause trouble with getting the pads to clear the rim with the brakes in the "off" position. But then there are some canti handles that pulls more wire than others. There is also a variation in length in the v-brake arms. You should never attempt to use v-brakes adapted for use with mudguards with anything else than v-brake levers.
So far I've never had any trouble with a partial replacement of the front brake. The shorter distance makes for less play in the setup, which allows you to get enough movement even with the old handles. Rear brake usually has more sag which can make things difficult.
You can always measure the handles to to get an idea if it's possible. If distance between handle pivot(hinge) and wire attachment is 28 mm or more you've got a fair chance of getting it to work. Brake arm length should be 105-110 mm.
Cambriabike.com sells something called travel agent pulley that can be used. It is likely to upset any economical considerations though.
I'd steer clear of Tektro's. Mine caused an absolutely uncureable brake squeal. Switched to Avids and the problem disappeared.
Some people claim that canti handles+v-brakes makes you too strong, I've never had any problem with that. Whatever changes you make you got to get used to them before you can use the bike fully again, this is no different.

Originally posted by lpederson
Hmmm, you sure about that? My limited reading has lead me to believe that cantilever brake levers cannot be used with V brake calipers... Please note I said "limited reading"... If you have experience / knowledge otherwise, please let me know.

Lise

I've done it.