Brake Question

[BSA]

I have quite an old road bike with what I believe to have caliper brakes.

I need new brake blocks and I was going to order some online but... how can I tell which blocks will fit my bike?

The choice is vast and I havent a clue where to start can someone help.

I was looking at these :http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=17579

Here is a close up of current setup:

 

[djb1971]

Hi BSA,

I've just put these http://www.wiggle.co.uk/p/Cycle/7/Kool_Stop_Mountain_Dual_Compound_Pair_Of_Brake_Blocks/5300003394/ onto my old Weinmanns and they are brilliant . You will notice a huge difference in stopping, especially in the wet. They do go behind the front forks though with about 1/4 inch clearance either side which is plenty.

A little bit more expensive but you'll stop when you want to

You can also get the cartridge version which are even better, I've got them on the tricross.

 

[jimboalee]

Advice. Only order online if you are absolutely sure you are ordering the correct thing.
Take an old block, or the whole bike to you LBS. Then it won't be your mistake if its wrong.
Pay for peace of mind.

 

[Angelfishsolo]

BSA - It looks as though your bike uses the same system as my old mountain bike. I use a generic equivalent of the blocks djb1971 recommended and find then great. I did have to adjust the calliper mechanism a little more than usual though as they were slimmer than the blocks that they replaced.

However jimboalee also raises a very good point and for complete piece of mind and comeback a trip to your LBS is a very good idea.

 

[PpPete]

I was looking at these :http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=17579

I don't disagree with the previous advice about LBS - but I think you will find that these
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?PartnerID=79&ModelID=16876
are a good fit, although not perhaps quite as much stopping power as the longer Kool-Stops suggested by djb1971 which are intended for V brakes.

 

[swee'pea99]

I don't disagree with the previous advice about LBS - but I think you will find that these
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?PartnerID=79&ModelID=16876
are a good fit, although not perhaps quite as much stopping power as the longer Kool-Stops suggested by djb1971 which are intended for V brakes.

They look like a steal at that price. These are definitely the ones I'd go for.

 

[BSA]

Thanks for the advice, the problem I have is the LBS is not so Local. Shopping online is more convenient and you can look at reviews on products, compare prices etc.

I think I may buy the ones suggested by porkypete as they are a good price £2.99 inc delivery reduced from £9.99 and seem specifically designed for caliper brakes.

 

[Angelfishsolo]

Thanks very much for that link. They look great. I especialy fancy the Salmon ones :-)

I don't disagree with the previous advice about LBS - but I think you will find that these
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?PartnerID=79&ModelID=16876
are a good fit, although not perhaps quite as much stopping power as the longer Kool-Stops suggested by djb1971 which are intended for V brakes.