V-Brake pads for XTR ?

[d_douglas]

I am just replacing the pads on my sweet lady’s cruiser that is capably stopped by some old timey XTR V brakes. This is the first time I’ve needed to replace them (she doesn’t ride too much!) so I am wondering if I can still buy those cartridge pads for old brakes like this or if I need to buy new pads and carriers (of another brand)?

I want it to be durable and affordable, but mostly durable. She couldn’t care less if the brakes are fancy - only that they’re safe, so seeking out era-appropriate XTR pads is of low priority.

Essentially, will a good LBS have a set of average quality Shimano pads that will fit into 20yr old brake setups?

[Mark McM]

Yes, V-brake replacement pads are standard parts, and any good LBS should have them. V-brake pads/holders have been pretty well standardized to Shimano compatibility, and Shimano themselves still makes and sells V-brakes (and pads and holders).

[Veloo]

SwissStop.
I have the green GHP ones on my V brakes.
Don't think they sell/ make the green anymore. Believe I last got them from CHainreaction. They do carry the black ones but pads alone are out of stock. I do see them in stock when I browse so if you can wait then maybe they'll get more soon.

There are green ones on eBay in France but seller want $50 to ship.

https://www.chainreactioncycles.com/swissstop-rx-plus-brake-pads-shimano-xtr-xt/rp-prod42655

https://www.ebay.ca/itm/SwissStop-Patins-de-frein-velo-RX-vert-Shimano-XTR-Deore-XT-jante-velo-universel/223036481917?hash=item33ee02a17d:g:PL8AAOSwhtlbNR9 v

[AngryScientist]

agree that any decent bike shop should have what you're looking for.

my local REI (do you guys have those up north?) has a few different brands on the wall. pretty popular still since a lot of cyclists who are not gear junkies still ride v brake bikes, tons of them on the roads and trails for commuters and recreational devices, etc.

you should have no trouble finding pads.

[Veloo]

MEC has. Any of these the right shape?

https://www.mec.ca/en/brake-type/v_._brake/products/cycling/bike-components/brakes252c-pads-and-rotors/brake-pads/c/823

[Schredder]

Kool-stop salmons FTW! I currently have these on my commuter. Purchased
via amazon.

[pdonk]

These should work - $10

https://www.mec.ca/en/product/4006-515/Replacement-V-Brake-Inserts

MEC house brand are $4.50 each

[pdmtong]

Kool-stop salmons FTW! I currently have these on my commuter. Purchased via amazon.

^ this ---- preferred over the std shimano inserts

[bikinchris]

Be aware that there are early and late style inserts.

I avoid the severe duty Shimano pads because they are too hard on the rims.