[CR]CR] RE: Was: Retro cool, Now: Campy sidepulls

(Example: Framebuilders:Dario Pegoretti)

From: <BobHoveyGa@aol.com>
Date: Wed, 5 Jan 2005 10:32:32 EST
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Subject: [CR]CR] RE: Was: Retro cool, Now: Campy sidepulls

In a message dated 1/5/05 9:26:18 AM, Kurt writes:


> Amen.  I can lock either wheel with a well set-up Campagnolo sidepull
> brake at will with good pads.  What more can a brake do?
>
> Kurt Sperry
> Bellingham WA
>

Lock up with the pressure of one finger on the upper part of the lever when you're riding on the hoods?

I routinely ride bikes with vintage single-pivot sidepulls and new dual-pivots, so I can attest to the fact that they both function admirably when you are on the drops and grab a handfull of lever. The difference is in the confidence and ease with which you can get adequate power when riding on the hoods with just a couple of fingers on the levers. Sure, both will modulate your speed or even allow you to stop completely... but there is really no comparing the amount of force needed to do so.

Another cool thing that lessens the amount of force needed to squeeze the lever is the ball bearing pivots in newer brakes. They lower pivot friction, especially when the brakes are under load. An added benefit of reduced pivot friction is that manufacturers have been able to use weaker return springs which contributes even more to the caliper's light silky feel.

Unfortunately, with every technological advancement, it seems we have to give something up. I'd hate to have to track down a set of replacement brake bearings since most riders these days just trash the brake and get another. And there's something very appealing about the visual appearance of an old NR caliper, especially with its embossed logos (rather than the more garish branding that is used by Campy these days). While grace and style is not entirely absent from Campy's new components, there's something to the old stuff that was just unique and timeless.

Bob Hovey
Columbus, GA