Just receceived a new replacement frame form Devinci after road frame was trashed .Requested a cross frame need some advice on brakes, etc .Switching my Ultegra groupo over but want to go cantilver brakes for wider tire clearence etc.
Winter bike basically but may enter some low key cross bike races .
would definitely suggest you consider cross-top brake levers, especially if it’s a commuter. these things can be had incredibly cheap, and they’re simple to install. that way you’ve got two sets of brake levers, and i found that i always used the cross-tops more when commuting.
as for cantilevers. . . have used avid and tektro and i can’t say i notice any huge differences.
good luck - cross bikes are very addictive!
-mike
I have used and broken both Avid and Cane Creek brakes. Right now I have an Avid Shorty (not sure of the number) on the back and a Cane Creek on the front. Do not forget to toe-in the pads or you will likely have terrible brake squeal.
Other suggestions - depends on what you already have:
Broader range cassette - 12x26 or so.
Smaller front chain rings - maybe 46 and 39 or 38 - unless you have a compact to begin with.
Top levers - I do not have them but my kids do and they are nice. Get ones with barrel adjusters so you can fiddle with the brakes easily if you swap out wheels, or get a wobbly wheel while riding, etc.
Use a saddle that does NOT have a large back lip and that is not sticky - enable sliding on and off the rear.
I really like Time ATAC pedals but just as many people love Eggbeaters as well.
David K
Like all things, it comes down to cash…
Any chance the bike can accept Disc Brakes? If so, just use Avid Road Discs… A no-brainer for a bike that will rarely be raced, but frequently be ridden in sloppy/nasty conditions. You’ll save money on brake pads and rims and won’t need to fuss with adjustments.
If focused only on cantis… Just buy the Pauls and be happy (heck, Cyclepath in Portland, Oregon will even offer you different colors to make them even more righteous). Although it’s popular to run a Neo-Retro in front and a Touring in the rear (to avoid hitting it with your heel during dismounts), I’d just run a pair of Neo-Retros since they have a bit more bite. If not Pauls, just go with the top-end Avids which are reasonable to adjust.
1 x top-mount lever (for the rear) is a good idea. Avoid one on the front as a panic-pull can be pretty disastrous for someone new to CCX.
Consider running your bike English or Moto style (rear brake cable running from the left lever) as it aids in dismounts. It’s not hard to mentally adjust after a few rides.
Michelin Mud tires (700x35) are a good all-rounder. They hold up well and clear mud effectively.
Enjoy CCX… Get moving on the bike though. CCX season starts tomorrow in Oregon!!! WOOHOO!!!