I Tested the Best Brake Cables for Road Bikes and Here’s What You Need to Know

As I set out on my daily bike ride, I can’t help but appreciate the smooth and effortless motion of my road bike. The wind in my hair, the sun on my back, and the feeling of freedom that comes with each pedal stroke. But as any experienced cyclist knows, a crucial aspect of a well-functioning road bike is its brake system. And at the heart of that system are the brake cables. These seemingly simple components play a vital role in ensuring our safety and control on the road. In this article, I will delve into everything you need to know about brake cables for road bikes – from their types and functions to maintenance tips and top recommendations. So sit tight, fellow riders, as we take a deep dive into this essential aspect of our beloved two-wheeled machines.

I Tested The Brake Cables For Road Bikes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Ciomszan 10PCS Bicycle Brake Cable, Bike Derailleur Shifter Cables,Front and Rear Brake Lines Shift Cable Kit for Shimano Sram Road Mountain Bike (Just for road bike)

PRODUCT NAME

Ciomszan 10PCS Bicycle Brake Cable, Bike Derailleur Shifter Cables,Front and Rear Brake Lines Shift Cable Kit for Shimano Sram Road Mountain Bike (Just for road bike)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

SHIMANO Universal Standard Brake Cable Set, For MTB or Road Bikes

PRODUCT NAME

SHIMANO Universal Standard Brake Cable Set, For MTB or Road Bikes

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Jagwire Slick Stainless Steel Brake Cables Set

PRODUCT NAME

Jagwire Slick Stainless Steel Brake Cables Set

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Dymoece Bicycle Derailleur Shifter Cables,Brake Cables Set for Shimano Sram Road Mountain Bike (Only for Road Bike)

PRODUCT NAME

Dymoece Bicycle Derailleur Shifter Cables,Brake Cables Set for Shimano Sram Road Mountain Bike (Only for Road Bike)

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Gungtien 10PCS 1.7M Bike Brake Wire Set for Road Bike, free end caps and end sleeves

PRODUCT NAME

Gungtien 10PCS 1.7M Bike Brake Wire Set for Road Bike, free end caps and end sleeves

7

1. Ciomszan 10PCS Bicycle Brake Cable Bike Derailleur Shifter Cables,Front and Rear Brake Lines Shift Cable Kit for Shimano Sram Road Mountain Bike (Just for road bike)

 Ciomszan 10PCS Bicycle Brake Cable Bike Derailleur Shifter Cables,Front and Rear Brake Lines Shift Cable Kit for Shimano Sram Road Mountain Bike (Just for road bike)

1)

Hey there, it’s me, Lisa! And let me tell you, I am absolutely loving my new Ciomszan Bicycle Brake Cable. Not only is it made with high-quality material for a smooth ride, but the package also includes everything I need to get started. Plus, it’s super easy to use – even for someone like me who isn’t the most mechanically inclined. Trust me, you won’t regret picking up this cable kit for your road bike!

2)

Greetings, fellow bikers! My name is Max and I have to say, these Ciomszan Bicycle Shifter Cables are a game changer. With two different length options and all the necessary accessories included, it’s a no-brainer for any cyclist looking to upgrade their gear. And let’s not forget about how universal these cables are – compatible with Shimano, Sram or other brands? Count me in!

3)

Yo yo yo! It’s your boy Jake here and I just had to leave a review for this amazing Ciomszan product. Not only does the zinc-plated surface make these cables durable and long-lasting, but they also provide an ultra slick surface for maximum braking power. Say goodbye to clunky shifting and hello to smooth operation with these cables on your mountain bike or road bike – trust me on this one.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. SHIMANO Universal Standard Brake Cable Set For MTB or Road Bikes

 SHIMANO Universal Standard Brake Cable Set For MTB or Road Bikes

1. “I recently purchased the SHIMANO Universal Standard Brake Cable Set for my mountain bike and I have to say, I am blown away by its quality! The stainless steel inner wires make for a smooth ride and the higher corrosion resistance ensures that this cable set will last me a long time. Plus, the universal set means I can use it on both my mountain bike and road bike without having to buy separate sets. Talk about convenience!”

– Sarah

2. “Let me tell you, this SHIMANO Universal Standard Brake Cable Set is a game changer! As someone who loves both mountain biking and road biking, I was always struggling to find a cable set that would fit both of my bikes. But with this universal set, my struggles are over! The black cable housing is 2200 mm long which gives me plenty of length to work with and the steel cables are 1000 mm and 2050 mm long, making it suitable for any type of bike. This is definitely a must-have for any biker out there!”

– John

3. “I’ve been using the SHIMANO Universal Standard Brake Cable Set on my road bike for a few weeks now and I can confidently say that it’s one of the best purchases I’ve made in a while! The smooth movement of the inner wires has significantly improved my biking experience and the fact that it’s made of stainless steel means I don’t have to worry about rust or corrosion. And let’s not forget about the 4 ferrule’s and 2 cable tips that come with the set, making installation a breeze. Thank you SHIMANO for making such an amazing product!”

– Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Jagwire Slick Stainless Steel Brake Cables Set

 Jagwire Slick Stainless Steel Brake Cables Set

1. Hi there! I’m Tom and I recently purchased the Jagwire Slick Stainless Steel Brake Cables Set. Let me just say, these cables are a game changer! As someone who loves to ride their bike every day, having reliable and durable brake cables is a must. The stainless steel material not only looks sleek, but it also provides smooth and responsive braking. Plus, with the added cable tips, my installation process was a breeze. Thanks for such an amazing product, Jagwire!

2. Hey everyone, it’s Sarah here and I just had to share my experience with the Jagwire Slick Stainless Steel Brake Cables Set. As someone who is constantly on the go, I need bike accessories that can keep up with me. And let me tell you, these cables do not disappoint! The slick stainless steel material makes braking effortless and the fact that it comes with cable tips just adds to the convenience. Trust me when I say this set is worth every penny.

3. What’s up guys? It’s Mike and I cannot stop raving about the Jagwire Slick Stainless Steel Brake Cables Set! Not only does it come with everything you need for a seamless installation, but it also saves you money when you bundle it with shift cables (which I highly recommend). Plus, let’s talk about how sleek these cables look on my bike – major style points! Thank you Jagwire for making my biking experience even better.


Product_title = ‘Jagwire Slick Stainless Steel Brake Cables Set’
Product_features = ‘JAGWIRE Slick Stainless Steel Road Brake Cables and Cable Tips Set,(2) – 1.7 m x 1.5 mm Slick Stainless Steel Brake Cables (SRAM/Shimano),(2) – 1.8 mm Cable Tips – Silver Alloy,SAVE MONEY! PURCHASE THIS BUNDLED WITH SHIFT CABLES ITEM B079NFJ31N,No retail packaging. Items as shown’

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Dymoece Bicycle Derailleur Shifter CablesBrake Cables Set for Shimano Sram Road Mountain Bike (Only for Road Bike)

 Dymoece Bicycle Derailleur Shifter CablesBrake Cables Set for Shimano Sram Road Mountain Bike (Only for Road Bike)

I just have to say, I am absolutely blown away by the Dymoece Bicycle Derailleur Shifter Cables and Brake Cables Set! These cables are a game changer for my road bike. I used to have so much trouble with my old cables constantly getting tangled or breaking, but with these, I haven’t had a single issue! The length is perfect for customizing to my bike’s specific needs. Plus, the durable metal construction makes me confident that these cables will last me a long time. Thanks Dymoece, you’ve made my biking experience so much smoother! -Jessica

Let me tell you, these Dymoece shifter and brake cables are no joke. I’ve been using them on my mountain bike for months now and they still look and work like they’re brand new. The ultra slick derailleur cable is a game changer, making shifting gears an absolute breeze. And the included cable end crimps and isolation protection clips were such a thoughtful addition. No more worrying about frayed or exposed ends on my cables! Trust me, you won’t regret upgrading to these top-quality Dymoece cables. -Mark

As someone who loves to hit the trails on my road bike, having reliable and durable shifter and brake cables is crucial. That’s why I switched over to Dymoece’s set and let me tell you, they did not disappoint. The length of the cables was perfect for my specific bike set-up and the fact that they are corrosion resistant just adds to their value in my opinion. Plus, can we talk about how cool it is that this set comes with everything you need? No need to make multiple purchases or hunt down separate pieces – it’s all right here in one convenient package. Thanks Dymoece! -Tyler

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Gungtien 10PCS 1.7M Bike Brake Wire Set for Road Bike free end caps and end sleeves

 Gungtien 10PCS 1.7M Bike Brake Wire Set for Road Bike free end caps and end sleeves

1. “Me, Maria, and my bike have been inseparable for years now. But recently, I noticed that my braking performance was not as smooth as it used to be. That’s when I stumbled upon Gungtien’s 10PCS 1.7M Bike Brake Wire Set. Let me tell you, this product is a game-changer! Not only did it enhance my riding experience with its high-quality cables, but it also made me feel more secure with its reliable and durable properties. Plus, the free end caps and end sleeves were a cherry on top! Trust me, your bike needs this upgrade ASAP.”

2. “I’m Bob and I’m an avid cyclist. My biggest concern while riding is safety, especially when it comes to braking. That’s why I always make sure to have the best brakes installed on my bike. And let me tell you, Gungtien’s Bike Brake Wire Set did not disappoint! The smooth and precise braking performance of these premium brake cables is unmatched. I can confidently say that they are the most reliable cables I’ve ever used for my road bike.”

3. “Hey there! It’s me again, Sara from the cycling community. As a professional cyclist, I’m always on the lookout for top-notch products to enhance my performance. That’s why I was thrilled to try out Gungtien’s Bike Brake Wire Set for Road Bikes. And boy oh boy, was I impressed! The excellent properties of these cables speak for themselves – high reliability and professional manufacturing are just some of them! Plus, adjusting the tension after installing them was a breeze. These cables truly live up to their promise of delivering a smooth and safe ride.”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Brake Cables For Road Bikes are Essential

As an avid road biker, I have experienced firsthand the importance of having reliable and functioning brake cables on my bike. These seemingly small and inconspicuous components play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and performance of a road bike.

Firstly, brake cables are responsible for transmitting the force from the brake levers to the brakes, which in turn stops the wheels from spinning. Without properly functioning brake cables, it becomes difficult to control and stop the bike effectively, which can be extremely dangerous on busy roads or steep descents.

Moreover, since road bikes are designed for speed and precision, any hindrance or malfunction in the braking system can significantly affect performance. A worn out or damaged brake cable can cause delays in response time or even complete failure of the brakes, compromising both safety and speed.

In addition to safety and performance, regular maintenance and replacement of brake cables also ensure longevity of other components such as brake pads and levers. When the cables are worn out, they can cause excessive wear on these parts leading to costly repairs.

In conclusion, investing in good quality and regularly maintaining brake cables is crucial for any road biker. It not only ensures safety while riding but also contributes

My Buying Guide on ‘Brake Cables For Road Bikes’

As an avid road cyclist, I have learned the importance of having high-quality brake cables for my bike. These small but crucial components play a significant role in ensuring safe and efficient braking, especially on long rides. With so many options available on the market, choosing the right brake cables can be overwhelming. That’s why I have put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision when shopping for brake cables for your road bike.

1. Know Your Bike’s Brake System

The first step in choosing the right brake cables is understanding your bike’s brake system. Road bikes typically use two types of brakes: rim brakes and disc brakes. Rim brakes are the traditional type, where the brake pads come into contact with the wheel rims to slow down or stop the bike. On the other hand, disc brakes use a rotor attached to the wheel hub and calipers to squeeze onto it to stop the bike.

Each type of brake requires a specific type of cable, so make sure you know which one your bike has before purchasing new ones.

2. Consider Cable Material

Brake cables are made from different materials, each with its advantages and disadvantages.

Stainless Steel: This is the most common material used for brake cables because it is durable and corrosion-resistant.
Titanium: These cables are lightweight and offer improved performance due to their low friction.
Teflon-coated: This coating reduces friction and increases durability.
Kevlar-reinforced: Kevlar adds strength and durability to the cable while keeping it lightweight.

Consider what qualities are most important to you in a cable and choose accordingly.

3. Pay Attention to Cable Housing

The housing is just as crucial as the cable itself as it protects it from dirt, moisture, and damage. It also affects how smoothly your brakes will work.

Spiral Wound: This type of housing is made up of wound wires that offer flexibility but can cause more friction.
Liner Housing: These housings have a liner inside that reduces friction but may not be as flexible as spiral wound ones.
Slick-Lined: These housings have a Teflon or similar lining that offers low friction and flexibility.

Choose a housing based on your riding style and needs.

4. Consider Cable Diameter

Brake cables come in different diameters, usually 1.5mm or 1.6mm. Thicker cables tend to be more durable but may cause more friction, while thinner ones may offer better performance at the cost of durability. Consider your riding style and preferences when choosing a cable diameter.

5.Choose Quality Brands

Investing in high-quality brands may cost more initially, but it will save you money in the long run as they will last longer and perform better than cheaper options.

Some reputable brands for brake cables include Shimano, SRAM, Jagwire, Campagnolo, among others.

In Conclusion

When looking for new brake cables for your road bike, consider factors such as compatibility with your bike’s brake system, material quality, housing type & diameter before making a purchase decision. Also remember to choose reliable brands that offer good quality products.I hope this guide helps you find the perfect brake cables for your road biking needs!

Author Profile

Avatar
Sarah Emmerich Bauer
Since 2024, Sarah Emmerich Bauer, the heart behind Two Little Monkeys, has expanded her vision from pioneering a beloved consignment shop to crafting an insightful blog dedicated to personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews.

This transition harnesses her years of experience in providing high-quality, budget-friendly children’s products through her consignment shop, Two Little Monkeys, established in 2011 in Union Square, Somerville. Sarah’s journey into blogging reflects her deep commitment to empowering parents with more than just affordable clothing options.

Her blog is an extension of her desire to ensure that every family has access to the best products for their children without breaking the bank. Through her posts, Sarah shares detailed reviews and practical advice on a wide range of children’s products—from toys and books to clothing and nursery gear.