Options for standard reach brakes (47-57)

[dawgie]

What are some of the better options for standard reach brakes, 47-57 mm reach? I'm considering the Shimano BR-R650 Brakes, which seem to be Ultegra level quality, but they are hard to find. The Velo-Orange Grand Cru and Dia-Comp 610s look nice but I'm not sure if they are worth the extra cost over the Shimanos. Whatever brakes that I get, I would probably replace the standard pads with Kool-Stops.

[jtbadge]

TRP RG957 are my favorite.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/713/22658092828_41196948d4_z.jpg

[AngryScientist]

those would be "mid reach" calipers. It's pretty well accepted that "standard" reach brakes are actually short reach and what you find coming with any road shimano, sram or campy group.

anyway, i've ridden every one that's on the market. the nod goes to the TRP RG957 for best brake feel and stiffest overall IMO.

the shimano's are good, as are the VO and even tekrto, in that order of "goodness". The tektros are the easiest to get a fat tired wheel out of because of their cam like QR, which opens the arms very wide.

https://static.bike-components.de/cache/p/dm1/3/9/TRP-RG957-Road-Felgenbremse-black-set-front-rear--39389-117690-1481259194.jpeg

[dawgie]

Are the TRP brakes available in silver?

BTW, I have used Tektro 47-57 reach brakes in the past and was not impressed with their stopping power, even after replacing the pads with Kool-Stops/

[ColonelJLloyd]

BTW, I have used Tektro 47-57 reach brakes in the past and was not impressed with their stopping power, even after replacing the pads with Kool-Stops/

I can't imagine anyone claiming poor stopping power with a properly setup R539.

[dawgie]

I can't imagine anyone claiming poor stopping power with a properly setup R539.

That was my experience. Brakes adjusted several times at LBS, with pads replaced, and they still did not stop well. In retrospect, however, it may have been due to the brake levers.

[ColonelJLloyd]

That was my experience. Brakes adjusted several times at LBS, with pads replaced, and they still did not stop well. In retrospect, however, it may have been due to the brake levers.

Apparently something was awry. What levers?

If the OP is trying to compile a list, there are lots more 47-57mm calipers, but the best sidepulls have been listed.