Another one of those "Whats the difference" threads.

I was wondering what exactly si the difference between brakes like the Apex line and say, the generic Tektro's that cost like $25.

Is it the brake pad compound? Is it the weight? What the actual brake is made of? Durability? Brand Name?

I do have a pair of Tektros that I had for my hour, but never had a higher end brake set that you find with groupos for the road bikes.

Enlighten me please.

Just curious. I got Omniums for my SS, and amd considering SRAM singlespeed brake levers as well as SRAM Apex brakeset.....and against vixtor's suggestions, maybe a SRAM S27AL comp wheelset , rear wheel laced to a ss/track hub. XD

You will find that at most of our levels of cycling, brakes are brakes. The only thing you need to look out for is: Quick-release, Reach, and Barrel adjuster. These are really the only things you need. (I suppose centering set screws is nice)

The difference from set to set really becomes a matter of looks, aerodynamics, and weight. Most all of what we see on road-bikes (with some exceptions) are dual-pivots, which all, for the most part, transfer your power to braking energy about the same. Once you wear through the stock pads, you are free to choose higher quality or lower quality pads, which will play a much greater part in the quality of your braking. The difference from brake pad to brake pad is the compound, and the curved washers make for easy toe-in.

I am no expert, the extent of my high end dual pivots are Dura Ace and Rival, and the low ends of dual pivots are some unbranded Tektros. Rivals look nice, and the Dura Ace are smooth, but provided a little maintenance and upkeep, the Tektro's are truly no different. In fact, I have a pair of 105's that are newer than my Tektros, but were not maintained, and are crap. And by maintained, I really just mean cleaning and sometimes oiling, making sure the sleeve for the spring is in place and not eating the aluminum away.

All in all, brakes are brakes. They will stop you. Even if it means they will squeal the entire time they do so. You are paying for a few dozen grams less, the name, and the looks.