Bicycle Mechanics - have v-brakes with STI's, replace with cantilevers?

Hi,

My new-to-me Trek 520 came with the factory V-brakes and non-factory Tiagra STI brake/shifters. From what I understand the V-brakes need more cable pull than these levers can muster. Indeed, pulling the levers to the drop bars is quite easy and the brakes clearly aren't squeezed all the way.

Can I just replace the V-brakes with cantilevers, like the Tektro CR720? I was also looking at the Origin8 Pro Force brakes. I do need to clear the fenders. Thanks!

You can change them for cantilevers but an alternative is to fit "Travel Agents" which will match the lever's cable pull to the V-brake's requirements.

You can change them for cantilevers but an alternative is to fit "Travel Agents" which will match the lever's cable pull to the V-brake's requirements.

I looked into those but the price at ~$20-25 each appears to be similar to a new set of cantilever brakes.

I paid $21 pair for the Tektro CR720. Best cantilever I've ever owned. Very easy to adjust, Plenty of stopping power and cool retro looks. I use with Tiagr STI levers. Outstanding value.

I paid $21 pair for the Tektro CR720. Best cantilever I've ever owned. Very easy to adjust, Plenty of stopping power and cool retro looks. I use with Tiagra STI levers. Outstanding value.

Due to the mounting point of the Trek 520 rack, it looks like canti's will result in my re-building the rack mounting system, probably with p-clamps. I think what I'm going to try is a Travel Agent adapter for the rear brake, and the CR720 for the front brake. I will still need to slightly re-route one of the rack mounting bars to clear the TA wheel, but that's easy enough with some aluminum bar stock. Once I have one CR720 on hand I will examine how much of a pain in the neck the rear brake will be.

I looked into those but the price at ~$20-25 each appears to be similar to a new set of cantilever brakes.

You're forgetting that v-brakes are superior to cantis.

I paid $21 pair for the Tektro CR720. Best cantilever I've ever owned. Very easy to adjust, Plenty of stopping power and cool retro looks. I use with Tiagr STI levers. Outstanding value.

A great canti. I have them on my mtb (old, old school going on) and love them. Stock pads were crapo though, wore out in 2 rides.

You're forgetting that v-brakes are superior to cantis.

Not with travel agents though. Good cantis > v-brakes with travel agents.

Yea I'd probably go with cantis in this situation. I have the 520 with barcons and Tektro RL-520 [way better the the old 287V's).