Ugrading Cantis to V brakes

[MikewsMITH2]

Are there any problems with replacing cantis (Mafac circa 1980) with new V brakes. I know this would require a change to flat bars unless I use a travel agent type device. Are the mounting points compatible?

[sirmy]

The mounting points should be compatible but need to be at least 80 mm apart. I've recently fitted V's (Deore LXs) to my 20 year old Muddy Fox and they work well.

[Kevin K]

If you use the Tektro RL520 brake levers you can still use drop bars and don't need travel agents. I have them on my bike and find them very good indeed.

[MikewsMITH2]

Thanks for the information. I'll measure up tomorrow.

[Wesh-Laurence]

The answer is to use Tektro Mini V-Brakes. These have 80-85 mm length arms as opposed to 100mm on normal V-Brakes.

I don't like cantis, I have them on one bike. I've just built a new bike and have used Mini V-Brakes instead of cantis. The Mini V-Brakes work with drop handle bar brake levers including STI levers (I've fitted Shimano Tiagra STI Levers). However with Mini V-Brakes there isn't as much clearance for mudguards.

There is one make of drop handle bar brake levers that will work with normal V-Brakes but I can't remember which, but you need separate gear levers with them.

[Kevin K]

There is one make of drop handle bar brake levers that will work with normal V-Brakes but I can't remember which, but you need separate gear levers with them.

There are two makes of drop bar lever that will work with V-brakes; Tektro RL520 and Dia Compe 287-V. The Tektro levers work far better.
Paul Components also produce auxiliary cross-top levers that work with drop bar V-brakes.
You do indeed need separate gear levers, either bar end shifters or down tube levers. You could always go really retro and install these

[mattsccm]

Not to be cheeky but if you don't want the Mafacs I do. Would swap for some V'S
Matt