Levers

Bike brake lever – First and foremost a braking component

The brake levers on a road bike are, obviously, first and foremost a braking component. Fitted in line with the handlebars, they have the particularity, compared to MTB levers, of offering an additional hand rest. By pulling the lever, you pull on the cable which, housed in its housing, activates the calliper. When the brake calliper tightens, the brake pads fixed to the ends of the "jaws" will rub against the rim and therefore brake the road bike. The quality of braking therefore depends, obviously, on the precision and smoothness of the lever, but also on the quality of the cables & housings, and callipers and the brake pads. Also remember to choose your brake pads according to your rim type (carbon or alloy) to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Bike brake lever – Today, also a transmission component

Bike brake levers evolved in the early 90s by integrating gear shifting into the "hoods". Initially located on the frame, manufacturers took advantage of the ideal position of the levers and their shape to integrate the gear-changing system. This way, the rider has both their brake and gear change at their fingertips. Like the clipless pedals, this evolution is one of the biggest innovations of the last 30 years when it comes to the bike.
 

Bike brake lever – References are on Probikeshop.fr!

For your road bike brake levers, you have the choice between 3 major brands: Campagnolo, Shimano and Sram. The 3 brands, fairly close in terms of range, weight and price, have all developed their own gear-shifting system within the levers. Your choice will therefore depend on your preferences and budget, but also on compatibility with the rest of the drivetrain. Sram and Shimano are fairly compatible with each other but hardly compatible with Campagnolo.

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