Is there any reason why I can't use interrupter levers as the only brake lever, ie at the end of the cable rather than between a normal lever and the brake as they are intended. I am sure I have seen references to using them like this. I assume that I can route the cable in either direction from the lever? Any tips or specific points I should be aware of before installing them?

thanks

I've never had a problem running them like that

It works just fine.

It'll work, but keep a close watch on the cable end in the lever because it may start to fray quite soon. When most cyclocross levers are used like this, the cable gets bent more than it would in a normal lever every time you pull the lever, and the cable can then start to fray easily (i.e., individaul strands start to break). If you keep an eye on the cable and replace it when this starts to happen, you should be OK. Plus, always use two brakes just in case one cable does break while riding, which will usually happen when you need to use the brakes the most and so are pulling hardest on them. There are some cyclocross levers that have a pivoting cable stop, which prevents most of the bending, if you can get some of those then they would be best.

Thanks for the replies. I will probably try fitting them tomorrow so will see how it goes and how bad the cable bending looks.

+1 on this. A few months ago someone posted pictures of broken brake cables, possibly from using interrupter levers as stand-alone. Both brake cables snapped at the same time- thankfully at slow speed.