In the world of fixed gear bikes, the topic of brakes is unavoidable, especially considering the legal requirements in Japan to have brakes fitted. Despite their importance, brakes are often overlooked, even though poor stopping power can really impact your ride, especially in urban areas where stop-and-go cycling is common. Choosing the right brakes isn't just about safety—it's also about matching your style.

Today, let's look at two distinct brands that exemplify different braking philosophies:

SHIMANO

SHIMANO 105 BR-R7000 BRAKE SET

Shimano is a household name in Japan, holding the number one global market share in bike components. Everyone knows it. Known for producing excellent products at low prices, Shimano's brakes are designed mainly for stopping efficiently.

In city riding, where you frequently stop and go, so stopping with as little effort as possible is a huge deal.

Shimano's brakes are designed to make stopping easy and secure, which is particularly useful in compact, busy areas like many places in Japan.

No matter how fast you ride a motorcycle, it can be tedious to have to squeeze the lever every time you stop. This is especially true in compact regions like Japan.

Shimano brakes are designed to make stopping both easy and safe.

CAMPAGNOLO

In contrast to Shimano, Campagnolo is an Italian brand known for its sophisticated and sharp designs, which just make you want them. I've actually owned one of their components myself.

Campagnolo brakes are about "controlling the bike." Unlike Shimano, their brakes are designed to allow a slight escape of force at a certain point, which helps with fine speed control at high speeds. This characteristic likely stems from European cycling conditions, where it's not always necessary to come to a complete stop due to less interrupted road links.

Campagnolo's braking philosophy focuses on efficient passage through roads, emphasizing not killing the speed too much but allowing for quick, efficient travel.

Summary

Both brands offer clear character and benefits, making it hard to choose one over the other. Rather than declaring a winner, consider what fits best with your riding style and the conditions in your area.

Choosing the right brakes is not just a legal and safety consideration but also a massive part of how you interact with your bike and the road. Whether you're zipping through urban streets or cruising through more open spaces, understanding these differences can help make your decision more informed.

P.S Interested in exploring more about fixed gear? Contact us to learn more. Also, follow us on Instagram @brotures_global to stay updated. Let's make your ride uniquely yours.

Toshi