Best Rear Bike Cables of 2026
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Rear bike cables are an essential part of any bicycle's braking system. These cables connect the brake levers to the brake calipers, allowing the rider to control the bike's speed and come to a safe stop. Made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel or galvanized steel, rear bike cables are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use and exposure to the elements. They come in a variety of lengths and thicknesses to fit different bike models and preferences. For a smooth and reliable braking experience, it's important to regularly inspect and replace worn or damaged rear bike cables.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 9 Rear Bike Cables
Universal Bicycle Shift Derailleur Cable and Brake Cable Kit
This kit includes a universal set of bike shift derailleur cable and brake cable made of durable PVC and stainless steel material. The variable speed cable set allows you to easily adjust the length to meet your needs, and the wear-resistant brake cables provide safety to the cyclist. The kit comes with ample quantity including O rings, tail ends, brake copper sleeves, and cable ferrules. This kit is applicable to mountain bike, road bike, small wheel bike, and foldable bike for maintenance cables.
Hapleby Premium Bike Shift Cable Kit
The Hapleby 10PCS Premium Bike Shift Cable Kit includes a set of 10 cables made with high standard zinc-coated material that provides corrosion resistance and durability. The kit comes with free O-rings, sheath ferrules, and end caps. The low-friction and strong slick cable provide smooth operation, making it suitable for speed control systems. The kit is widely used by professionals and fits most bikes such as MTB, road bikes, BMX bikes, folding bikes, and recreational cycling. However, it's essential to keep in mind that after installing new cables, users need to adjust the tension after some riding.
Schwinn Bike Cable Repair Set
The Schwinn Bike Cable Repair Set is a DIY kit that includes front and rear brake cables, front and rear derailleur shifting cables, and all the necessary small parts for repairs. The kit is compatible with most adult bikes and allows for smoother shifting and stopping. The plastic cable end caps, metal cable ferrules, and end tips make it easy to complete repairs.
Stainless Steel Bike Shifter Cable
The Stainless Steel Bike Shifter Cable is suitable for speed control system and helps you adjust bike speed, made of high-quality material that is strong, slick, wear-resistant, and corrosion-resistant. Its long length is perfect for the rear derailleur cable, and it can be cut shorter if needed. This shifter cable fits most types of bikes, including common bikes, mountain bikes, and city bikes.
Jagwire Mountain Pro Brake Cable Kit
The Jagwire Mountain Pro Brake Cable Kit is a high-performance cable kit designed for mountain bikes, compatible with SHIMANO & SRAM. The sleeve is fortified with Kevlar, making it highly effective and lightweight. The internal liner is pre-lubricated with slick-lube, reducing friction and improving the feel of braking.
10 Pcs Stainless Steel Shifter Cables for Bikes
This package includes 10 replaceable bicycle shifter cables, made of high-quality stainless steel that is strong, slick, and corrosion-resistant. These cables are 1.8 meters long, but you can easily cut them down to fit your bike. They provide more shifting power and smooth operation, making them perfect for mountain bikes, road bikes, and city bikes.
CXVKML EW-EC300 Shimano Di2 Charging Cable
The CXVKML Di2 Charging Cable is designed to keep your Shimano 12-speed electronic rear derailleurs powered during rides. It works with popular Shimano models like the R9270 and R9250, ensuring compatibility with your bike's system. The cable features a reinforced 4-pin connection that offers a secure and reliable charge, so you don’t have to worry about interruptions. Safety is also a priority, as the built-in protection prevents overheating and short circuits, giving you peace of mind. Plus, its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry on your handlebars or in your jersey pocket, making emergency charging simple and convenient wherever you go.
Boao Bike Brake Gear Shifter Cable Kit
The Boao Bike Brake Gear Shifter Cable Kit, also known as the Boao Cable Kit, is a must-have accessory for any cyclist. Made with stainless steel strong PVC coated cable, this kit provides a smooth and wear-resistant experience, improving the speed and smoothness of your ride. The PVC material used in the construction of the cables ensures resistance to extreme weather conditions, making it suitable for all kinds of riding. With a 2-meter cable housing and variable speed cables, this kit is versatile and can be tailored to fit your bike's needs. The package includes everything you need for installation and replacement. Upgrade your bike with the Boao Cable Kit and enjoy a better riding experience.
BlueSunshine Bike Brake Cable Set
BlueSunshine Brake Cable Kit includes 2 brake cables, 1 brake housing, ferrules, cable end caps, and C-Clips Buckle. The stainless steel slick cable provides strong braking power and smooth operation. With long front and rear brake cables, you can customize the shift cable length. The 5mm diameter brake cable housing is cuttable, keeping your desired length. For any issues, contact the seller first.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are all bicycle brake cables the same?
While brake and gear inner cables are nominally similar, the housings are different – brake cables use conventional 'helical' housing which consists of a tightly-wrapped helix of steel wire lined on both inside and outside by a plastic coating.
2. Are derailleur and brake cables the same?
Differences go beyond cable thickness too. At the derailleur or brake end, both brake and gear cables have 'raw' ends that are fixed by a clamp. At the lever end, though, they have differently shaped nipples – the lumps of permanently affixed metal that hold them in the levers – again making them non-interchangeable.
During our rear bike cable research, we found 24 rear bike cable products and shortlisted 9 quality products. We collected and analyzed 38,065 customer reviews through our big data system to write the rear bike cables list. We found that most customers choose rear bike cables with an average price of $13.59.
The rear bike cables are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of rear bike cables, including Boao, Hapleby, Schwinn, Qicfrk, Jagwire. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 420 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.