What size are bike brake cables?

Brake cable kits generally consist of two lengths of 1.5mm or 1.6mm inner wire (one longer length for the brake brake and one shorter for the front), a single length of cable outer which is then cut to size and all associated end caps and ferrules etc.

Are all bike brake cables the same?

The jobs done by brake cables and gear cables are different, so they’re built differently. Your brake needs to work without risk of failure and to transmit significant force to the brake caliper, so the inner cable is built thicker than a gear cable.

Can you reuse brake cables on a bike?

While changing your bike cables, whether shifter or brake, if you inspect the cable housings and discover they are still in good condition, there’s no reason why you can’t reuse them. Cable housings (when damaged) always show signs of wear, rust, or fray, if it isn’t the case with yours, then reuse them.

Are all Shimano shift cables the same?

Apart from the diameter, Campagnolo and Shimano shifter cables are visually almost identical, so pay attention to specifications when shopping (especially if you have Campagnolo shiters, since Shimano cables won’t fit Campagnolo shifters).

Are Shimano and SRAM cables the same?

Shimano designed their housing to be used with their polymer-coated cables and SRAM has a similar system. Otherwise, I use 4 and 5 mm polished stainless steel cables, often in 3,300 mm length since most bikes have internal routing nowadays.

How long do bicycle brake cables last?

Keep in mind that even quality cables can fail if they were installed poorly. But if you have quality cables installed correctly, they ought to hold up fine for at least three years in my estimation. If you ride in extreme weather or crash a lot, you could need new ones much sooner, of course.

Should I lubricate brake cables?

Cable lubrication is recommended, especially if you ride in the rain or have old cable housings. Most brake and shift cables these days have a plastic lining built into the housing, therefore eliminating the need for lubrication.

Are all Shimano gear cables compatible?

Any Shimano compatible cable will work with your shifter. I would suggest stainless steel cables (better than galvanised cables) because they will stay in nice condition, so operate well, for longer.

Are brake and shifter cables the same?

Shifter cable ends are the same. Although nowadays many cables come with both ends, one on each end, and you can cut off the one you’re not using. There are two basic types of cables; brake and shifter. Brake cables are thicker, typically 1.5/1.6mm in diameter.

Why do mountain bikes have exposed cables?

Very compressible, high friction. Housing stops and exposed cable made the shifting (and braking) more solid and reduced friction.

How much does it cost to replace brake cables?

The average cost for emergency brake cable replacement is between $142 and $180. Labor costs are estimated between $142 and $180. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

How do you fix a rusted bike cable?

Method: 1 Using WD-40 to Remove Rust from Road Bike Cables WD-40 is effective in getting rid of rust from metals by loosening the bonds between the rust and the metals. It can also be used to free seized up cables. WD 40 can also serve as a temporary lubricant, to prevent future rust.

How do you unstick bike brake cables?

If the cable is still stiff, try taking it out of its plastic tubing. First, remove the clamp at either the caliper or brake lever. Then, pull the cable out the opposite end. If you remove the cable, use an aerosol solvent (or even WD-40) to flush any dirt or debris from the cable tube while the cable is out.

Are Shimano and SRAM cables interchangeable?

The SRAM rear derailleur (mech) will not work with a Shimano shifter as is; the cable pull and shift activation ratios are not the same between the two systems.

Can I use shifter cable for brake?

Well here is one, you can’t use brake cables to shift with or shift cables to brake with, the ends are wrong. If you ever shorten your shifter housing you will find the difference. One you can cut, one you have to have a real good set of cutters.