Road Brake Levers and V-Brake Compatibility

[boy in a kilt]

I don't know how deep you are into this project. But here's my advice.

Cantis. Go with Cantis.

I spent a couple of years mucking around with the v-brake STI lever issue and I never got it to meet my expectations, even with a Travel Agent. I don't like equipment hacks in general and this only made my dislike more intense.

[wackyjacky1]

I've got all the parts (well, I'm waiting for the shifters to be delivered) so I guess I'll stick with the v-brakes for now. If I run into problems, I'll do the canti switch, as you and Eden have suggested.

I'm really looking forward to getting this conversion done. The current handlebars are sooooo uncomfortable, they almost make me not want to ride.

Thanks!

[Triskeliongirl]

I never liked travel agents with v-brakes and sti levers. Too sloppy for my tastes. This is what I am now running on my touring bike, which I purchased from Harris Cylery. http://www.sheldonbrown.com/harris/c...ers/index.html
They work great!:

Shimano BR-R550 Deluxe Cantis
BRC50 (F), BRC51(R)* $41.95 each
Premium centerpull cantilevers from Shimano.
Compatible with STI/Ergo brake/shifters.

Refillable V-brake type shoes, highly polished and lovely. (Photo doesn't do them justice.)

*Although these are designated as "front" and "rear" models, there's no actual difference. To convert "front" to "rear" or vice-versa, just swap the shoes from right to left.

[VeloVT]

Those Shimano cantis came stock on my cross bike. They have worked well for me too. They are very squealy if not adjusted perfectly though !

[wackyjacky1]

Trisk, those brakes look super sweet! I just got my bike back from the shop today and took it for its maiden spin. I absolutely love the moustache handlebars!!! The brakes are easy to reach, and the bar-end shifters are amazingly crisp. I am so happy I could poop myself! The only thing I'm not crazy about is my selection of handlebar tape: Yes, it glows in the dark and, let's face it, that is super cool but generally speaking, the color is u-g-l-y. Ah, well.

Keep an eye out for me on the streets of S.A.-town. I guarantee I'm the only one with a bike like this.