Bicycle Mechanics - Cannondale M400 + v brakes?

Bikeforums.net is a forum about nothing but bikes. Our community can help you find information about hard-to-find and localized information like bicycle tours, specialties like where in your area to have your recumbent bike serviced, or what are the best bicycle tires and seats for the activities you use your bike for.



PDA

View Full Version : Cannondale M400 + v brakes?

commute
06-08-08, 06:08 PM
I had a crash on my commuting bike, a '95 Cannondale M400, and bent the stem and handlebars. (This M400 is a unsuspended mountain bike with the original fork.)

Went to LBS and came away with a stem that didn't match the original equipment - the best they had was a too-small stem without a "cable hanger" hole for the cantilever brakes. So I'm stuck with finding a cable hanger bracket... or getting v brakes. The LBS didn't sound excited about finding a bracket or the correct stem so I'm thinking about v brakes.

How can I tell if v brakes will fit my anachronism? Are they made to fit standard forks? Is there a kit I can ask for? Any suggestions for replacing the cables?

kramnnim
06-08-08, 06:54 PM
Yeah, v brakes will work. You'll need new brake levers, as well.
Tinkeric
06-08-08, 08:42 PM
Virtually every frame and fork that has canti brake posts can be upgraded to v-brakes. The only issue is when you need extra clearance for fenders.

I would upgrade to v-brakes since they're miles ahead of cantis.

Joshua A.C. New
06-09-08, 12:36 AM
Yeah, it's the way to go. You could get $10 levers and brakes for $15 and you'll be able to stop like never before.
commute
06-12-08, 08:25 PM
I ended up getting Tektro brakes. (Then did a forum search here and found that they are $35 cheaper online.)

The real brake bosses don't quite fit perfectly, there is about an 1/16 of an inch that was molded square (square hole round peg) before the boss attaches to the frame. The brakes won't quite go over this part, but I think they are on more than enough of the boss.

Anyway, you're right, they are amazing! Thanks!