[CR] on-topic side-pull brakes convertible to down pull?

(Example: Framebuilders:Rene Herse)

From: "Steven Maasland" <themaaslands@comcast.net>
To: CR <Classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Date: Tue, 8 Sep 2009 01:22:31 -0400
Subject: [CR] on-topic side-pull brakes convertible to down pull?


George asked: "I've wondered why a Cinelli would use a Weinmann caliper instead of a Universal."

Likely because Cinelli was the sole distributor of Weinmann products in Italy. Cino's wife was Swiss cycling aristocracy and Cino was thereby able to become distributor for many Swiss and other non-Italian products.

BTW, the Weinmann were lighter and a bit more resistant than Universal brakes.

Steven Maasland Moorestown, NJ USA

PS: There are a number of brake calipers that can be switched to down pull. I used to have a Dia Compe caliper. You can also find one of the neat Mafac pulleys that fit to the seat lug bolt.