Best Bike Brake Cables of 2025
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Bike brake cables are an essential component of any bicycle's braking system. They are responsible for transmitting the force from the brake lever to the brake caliper, ultimately slowing or stopping the bike. These cables are typically made of stainless steel or other durable materials, and are encased in a protective outer layer to prevent wear and tear. They come in various lengths and thicknesses to fit different types of bikes and brake systems, and are often sold in sets that include both the front and rear brake cables. Proper maintenance and replacement of bike brake cables is crucial for safe and effective braking.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Bike Brake Cables
SHIMANO Universal Bike Brake Cable Set
The SHIMANO Universal Bike Brake Cable Set is designed to fit both mountain bikes and road bikes. Its stainless steel inner wires guarantee smooth movement and higher corrosion resistance. The set includes a black cable housing, two steel cables with different lengths, and ferrules and cable tips. With this product, you can improve your bike's stopping power and increase its durability.
Hapleby 10PCS Premium Bike Brake Cable
The Hapleby 10PCS Premium Bike Brake Cable is a professional bicycle brake line suitable for mountain bikes, BMX bikes, folding bikes, and recreational cycling. Made of highest standard zinc-coated, the brake cable provides smooth movement and higher corrosion resistance. The kit includes sheath ferrules and end caps, two different length front and rear cables, and is easy to operate and replace. The cables fit perfectly on your bike and are long enough for tandem bikes too. The brake cable tension works well even under a force of 250lbs, providing a smooth ride for more than 200 miles of riding.
Zacro 62pcs Bike Brake Cable Kit
Zacro Brake Cable Kit includes front and rear bike shifter derailleur cables and brake cables made of durable PVC and galvanized steel. The kit provides a smooth riding experience with its heat and rust-resistant materials. You will receive a variety of components like transmission cable shells, brake wire outer tubes, O rings, and more. The variable speed cable set allows you to customize cable lengths to fit your bike perfectly. The wear-resistant brake cables ensure safety while cycling, suitable for mountain, road, BMX, and foldable bikes.
mamakoi 4PCS Premium Bike Brake Cable Set
mamakoi Brake Cable Set includes 2M length complete replacement set with front and rear cables, protective end tips to prevent scratching, premium zinc-coated cables for better braking, and widely applicable for various bike types. The set offers convenience by allowing easy cutting for a perfect fit, protects cable ends, ensures smooth operation, and durable use for a long time. Remember to adjust cable tension after installation for optimal performance.
weideer 87 Pcs Bike Cable Kit
Weideer Cable Kit includes a stainless steel wire cutter, bike brake and shift cables, cable housings, end caps, and O-rings. The stainless steel wire cutter ensures precise cuts without fraying. The universal bike cables are durable and reduce friction, protecting the brake lines. The various end caps prevent cable splitting and scratching. The O-rings protect your bike's paint. This versatile kit is suitable for road bikes, mountain bikes, and more.
Deapher Bike Brake Cable Set
Upgrade your bike's braking with the Sturdy & Durable Bike Brake Cable Set from Deapher. Made with heat and oxidation resistant PVC material, the set includes stainless steel cables that offer greater braking power and smooth operation. The kit is perfect for mountain, road, and common bikes, and is easy to install. The kit includes 1 pair of front and rear brake cables and is easy to maintain with a small amount of lubricating oil on the steel wire.
mankk Bicycle Brake and Shift Cable Kit M-124-BK
mankk Cable Kit is a universal replacement kit suitable for various bicycles. The kit includes black shift and brake cable housing, shift and brake cables, road bike brake cables, O-rings, aluminum cable end caps, and more. The quality materials ensure smooth operation and durability. You can easily cut the cables to fit your bike. With all necessary accessories included, this kit provides convenience for mountain, road, leisure, children's, and folding bike repairs.
4PCS Bike Brake Cable Shifter Cable Set
This bike brake and shifter cable set comes with a complete inner replacement set including 2 brake/shift cables, sheath ferrules, end caps, housing brake cable end caps, pipe shift cable end caps, and O-rings. Made of durable stainless steel and high-quality standard zinc-coated alloy end caps, this set is corrosion-resistant and anti-rust. The cables are easy to install and can be cut to the desired length. Suitable for different types of bikes, including mountain, road, folding, and BMX bikes. The seller also offers satisfactory customer service.
Swpeet 83Pcs Stainless Steel Bike Cable Cutter and Brake Cable Housing Shift Cable Housing Kit
The Swpeet 83Pcs Stainless Steel Bike Cable Cutter and Brake Cable Housing Shift Cable Housing Kit is a comprehensive set of bike cable and housing replacement kit. The kit includes a heavy-duty stainless steel bike cable cutter, bike brake cable shifter cable with end caps, and O-rings set. The bike brake cable and shift brake cable are suitable for both mountain bikes and road bikes. The kit is designed specifically for use on all bicycle cables and housing, including brake housing & hard-to-cut shift housing. It makes the perfect replacement for mountain bikes, road bikes, kids' bikes, folding bikes, DIY cable pipe installation, and more.
Gionfe Universal Bike Brake Cable Set
The Gionfe Brake Cable Set is designed to be compatible with both mountain and road bikes, providing versatility for any cyclist. Each cable features 19 durable stainless steel wires, ensuring strength and longevity. The included practical accessories, such as end caps and O-rings, help keep your cables organized and protected from damage, enhancing your biking experience. With a generous 2-meter length, these cables are suitable for a wide range of bike types, making it easy for you to replace or install new brake lines. Enjoy peace of mind with an 18-month warranty for added customer satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are all bike brake cables the same?
No, bike brake cables are not all the same. The style of brake you have determines the type of cable you need. Road and mountain bike brake cables are similar, but they have different heads designed to fit into different levers.
2. Are all bike brake cables the same size?
No, bike brake cables come in different sizes and shapes. There are three standards for brake cables, each with a different end barrel size and shape: MTB, Road Shimano compatible, and Road Campagnolo.
3. What size wire for bike brakes?
Brake cable kits usually include two lengths of 1.5mm or 1.6mm inner wire (one longer length for the rear brake and one shorter length for the front brake). Additionally, a single length of cable outer is provided, which can be cut to size as needed.
4. Are bike brake cables the same as gear cables?
No, bike brake cables and gear cables are not the same. They are built differently because they serve different purposes. Brake cables need to withstand force and transmit it to the brake caliper, so they have a thicker inner cable compared to gear cables.
5. Is it easy to replace brake cable on a bike?
Yes, replacing brake cables on a bike is a relatively easy task that can be done by most home mechanics. Basic tools, new cables, ferrules, and about an hour of your time are needed for this job.
6. How do I know what brakes will fit my bike?
To determine what brakes will fit your bike, look at the name of your current brake (usually written on the lever reservoir or caliper body) and find a disc pad with the same name. If the names don't match exactly, compare the shape of your existing pads to the potential replacement pads.
7. How thick are bike brake cables?
Bike brake cables are thicker, typically 1.5mm or 1.6mm in diameter. They come with different heads for different types of brake levers, such as mountain/flat bar, Shimano road/drop bar (compatible with most non-Shimano levers), and Campagnolo road/drop bar levers.
During our bike brake cable research, we found 24 bike brake cable products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 45,328 customer reviews through our big data system to write the bike brake cables list. We found that most customers choose bike brake cables with an average price of $7.69.
The bike brake cables are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of bike brake cables, including SHIMANO, Hapleby, Zacro, mamakoi, weideer. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,931 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.
Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.
Bike Brake Cables Comparison Table
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| Brand | SHIMANO | Hapleby | Zacro | mamakoi | weideer | Deapher | mankk | 4PCS | Swpeet | Gionfe |
| Material | Stainless Steel | Zinc-coated | - | steel wire | Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Stainless Steel, Zinc | Alloy Steel | Aluminum | Stainless Steel, Zinc-coated Alloy, PVC, Rubber | Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Stainless Steel, Metal | Stainless Steel with Zinc-coated |
| Color | Black | Silver | - | Black | Black | Black | Black | Silver, White, Black | Black | Silver |
| Item Length | - | 1.8E+3 Millimeters | - | 6.56 Feet | 5.5 Feet | 61 Inches | - | 2E+3 Millimeters | 398.4 Inches | 6.56 Feet |
| Item Weight | 0.1 Pounds | 0.14 Kilograms | - | 60 Grams | 0.74 Kilograms | - | 0.37 Kilograms | - | - | - |
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