Road Brake Cables and Hoses

Why a worn cable makes braking feel spongy

On a bike with rim or mechanical disc brakes, the cable transmits the force from the lever to the brake through a housing that guides it. Over time, the cable stretches slightly, the housing gets dirty with dust and water, and friction increases: the lever becomes soft and returns poorly. A brake housing is made of a spiral of steel, which withstands the compression from hard braking, whereas a derailleur housing uses longitudinal strands, which are more precise but less resistant to crushing. The two are therefore not interchangeable.

The rest of the braking

Road braking is also divided into:

• Brake calipers.
• Brake levers.
• Brake pads.
• Disc brakes.

All braking information can be found on the braking page.

Stainless steel Sram cable and Slickwire kit: their uses

The brake cable Sram made of stainless steel is two metres seventy-five long: this great length covers the internal routing of a time trial frame, where the cable runs through the tubes to the rear brake, as well as the distance between the lever and the rear brake of a tandem. The Slickwire kit, in white, includes polished stainless steel cables, housings designed to minimise friction, end caps and frame protection: everything needed to refresh the braking of a road bike all at once.

Cutting, mounting and tightening your brake cables

The housing is cut with a cable cutter, which slices through the spiral without crushing it; then the conduit is reopened with a punch and a metal end cap is placed on each end. The correct length follows the movement of the handlebars without pulling or creating an unnecessary loop, as each tight curve adds friction. The cable is then tightened to the brake to the desired tension, and a crimped end cap at its end prevents fraying. After a few rides, the tension is adjusted at the lever knob, while the housings and cables settle in.

Good deals

Good deals can also be found in the good deals, promotions, clearance sales, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped within 24 hours are prepared and sent out in 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a stable order: Black Friday in late autumn, the holiday season, winter sales, French Days in spring, then summer sales and back to school.

Frequently asked questions

When should you replace your brake cables and housings?

As soon as the lever feels soft, returns slowly, or if broken strands appear on the cable. With regular use, a preventive change every year ensures sharp braking, especially after a wet winter.

What length of cable for a classic road bike?

A cable of about one metre seventy-five covers the rear brake of most frames, and a shorter one is sufficient for the front. Time trial bikes and tandems require longer lengths.

Is a stainless steel cable better than a galvanized cable?

Yes, for durability: stainless steel doesn't rust and maintains its smoothness in the rain, while a galvanized cable oxidises and eventually catches in the housing. Polished versions slide even better.

Should a new brake cable be lubricated?

A polished or coated cable is installed dry, as its treatment already ensures smoothness. A bare cable benefits from a light layer of grease before entering the housing, but not too much, as grease attracts dirt.

How do you choose housing end caps?

The end cap must match the diameter of the housing, generally five millimetres for brakes. A poorly fitted cap makes the housing move in its stop and adds play to the lever, affecting precision.